On Monday, April 24, Senate Republicans introduced a “Students First” education plan that presents a better alternative to a set of Democrat-led mandate-heavy education bills. The “Students First” plan incorporates five key points that aim to directly assist students and address education shortfalls: 

• • A 5% increase on the formula each year, with no new mandates tied to the formula. 
• • $1 billion to fund the special education cross-subsidy that equates to funding the cross-subsidy at 65%. 
• • $100 million to fund literacy programs to get Minnesota students back on track. 
• • $200 million to fund “Safe Schools” initiatives to ensure every child feels safe while learning. 
• • $100 million to provide additional property tax relief through equalization. 

“The basis of our plan focuses on students and gives schools the flexibility to meet students’ needs,” said Senator Gary Dahms (R – Redwood Falls). “Several area school district administrators, teachers, and parents have contacted me with their concerns about the many unfunded mandates in the bills proposed by the House and Senate Democrat majorities. If these bills become law, they will decimate our rural schools.” 

The Senate Democrat Majority’s plan puts forward mandates that cost more than the funding that has been allocated. The Senate Republicans’ “Students First” proposal prioritizes students, literacy, and funding that directly benefits learning in the classroom. 

“Our number one priority should be ensuring that every Minnesota student is receiving a high-quality education that focuses on core academics and prioritizes special education,” continued Senator Dahms. “Literacy plays a vital role in a child’s success, both in school and later in life. Yet Minnesota’s test scores continue to decrease at an alarming rate. That is why our ‘Students First’ plan concentrates on funding the fundamental parts of education. We must provide critical funding directly into the classroom to get our students back on track after the pandemic.” 

The Minnesota Senate passed the Education Finance bill and Education Policy bill on Monday afternoon. The bills now await action by conference committees to work out differences with the House.