ST. PAUL, Minn. – This week, Gov. Mark Dayton announced plans for $137.9 million in one-time Emergency School Aid for school districts across Minnesota. Currently, more than 26 school districts in the metro area and 33 school districts in Greater Minnesota are facing immediate budget deficits that could result in hundreds of teachers and support staff being laid off, along with significant programming cuts. The proposal would increase school funding by two percent in the coming year, amounting to an additional $126 for every student in Minnesota.
Under the plan, Moorhead Area Public School would receive over $1 million in funding.
Rep. Ben Lien (DFL – Moorhead) released the following statement supporting the measure:
“I commend Gov. Dayton for his continued advocacy for Minnesota's schools and students. This additional funding will continue Minnesota's strong tradition of education in our state.
“These dollars will help Minnesota's students succeed for the future of our state and its workforce.”