To the editor,
I recently sat down with superintendents from area districts to hear their thoughts, ideas and concerns regarding the state of our educational system.
The superintendents – from Le Sueur-Henderson, Cleveland, New Prague, Belle Plaine and Tri City United (Montgomery-Lonsdale-Le Center) provided me with valuable insight. The conversations addressed the changes the Legislature passed this year, which include an increase in education funding, fewer mandated tests (although this continues to be an area of concern) improved teacher licensure regulations, and a greater investment in early education will be helpful as the students return.
Overall the average funding increase for the communities in House District 20A is nearly $350 per pupil. All agreed that because the increase was in base funding, rather than dedicated funding, it will allow more local control so individual districts will have the flexibility they need to apply the money where it can be put to best use. Although the ultimate use of the funding will vary from district to district, I heard about potential uses such as directing it toward enhancing after-school programs, retaining highly skilled teachers, reducing class sizes and more.
Other changes this year which should prove very helpful include fewer mandated tests to allow increased classroom learning time, The superintendents indicated to me the scope and consistency (or inconsistency) of standardized statewide testing is a big issue for them. Also, smaller districts are prone to wider swings in results because of a limited sampling size. It became apparent to me the legislature needs to continue looking at testing to assure it achieves what it should.
All felt the $95 million investment in early learning initiatives, including scholarships and school readiness aid which passed this year will be money well spent. I find this funding approach extremely helpful because not only is it targeting children where it is needed most – the early learners, at the same time it retains enough flexibility in use so parents can make the best choices for their children.
Overall I’m feeling confident that going into the school year the new laws should have a significant positive impact on the future of education in Minnesota, and I was happy to support them.
I’d like to thank our local superintendents who took time to discuss these important issues with me, and I extend my best to all the area kids as they get back in the classroom this fall. Although the school year signals the end of summer, it also renews the process of educating our young people toward their journey of making our nation and world a good place to live, something we all have a huge stake in.
Sincerely,
Bob