ST. PAUL – Senator Julia Coleman (R- Waconia) recently announced she will serve as the Republican Co-Chair on the Senate Education Policy Committee while the Senate’s 33-33 power-sharing agreement is in effect. 

  

Among many priorities, Senator Coleman will continue to prioritize legislation that provides flexibility for school districts across the state. Costly mandates passed last biennium negatively impacted school budgets leading school officials to advocate for the legislature to refrain from passing new mandates in 2024. 

  

“Our students and teachers will remain our top priority, and providing school districts with flexibility in funding is one way to put their needs first,” Coleman said. “The unique nature of the bipartisan operating agreement in the Senate provides an opportunity to put our trust in our local districts, parents, and teachers.” 

 

Additionally, Coleman will advocate for solutions addressing the growing concerns surrounding school safety, absenteeism, and student performance. “Ultimately, a safe learning environment leads to better outcomes in the classroom for students and teachers alike. We will continue to find ways to promote safety in the classroom and transparency for parents when incidents arise,” Coleman said.   

  

In addition to the education committee, Senator Coleman will serve on the Housing and Homelessness Prevention; Human Services; Rules and Administration Committees.  

 

Senator Coleman encourages constituents to reach out to her office to share their priorities. She can be reached by email at sen.julia.coleman@mnsenate.gov.