MREA will host a series of On-Point virtual meetings in the next few weeks to gain feedback on specific issues currently impacting our Greater Minnesota schools: Concurrent enrollment and other post-secondary options, funding student needs, and small schools funding.
Member feedback from the meetings will form the basis to build MREA’s Legislative Platform for the 2017 legislative session. Teachers, board members, and administrators are encouraged to participate.
During the one-hour online sessions, MREA will outline the issue and gain feedback from teachers, administrators and school board members across Greater Minnesota.
Concurrent Enrollment & Other Options
Tuesday, September 27
3:30-4:30 pm
If your school offers concurrent enrollment, this meeting is for you. Join this virtual meeting for the latest news and what you need to know to raise your voice on behalf of your students.
Concurrent enrollment has been widely used across Minnesota to help young people transition from high school to college and career and address college affordability. It’s now at grave risk in Greater Minnesota due to three recent decisions made by Minnesota State (formerly known as MnSCU). Learn more.
Funding Student Needs
Monday, October 10
3:30-4:30 pm
Increases in the formula are a necessary but not sufficient funding tool to meet the needs of school districts in Greater Minnesota. If you are concerned about your district’s level of funding, join this virtual meeting to learn about proposals for adding Operating Funding, including referendum equalization and LOR, and Facility Funding including the 40 percent Ag2School tax credit and Debt Service Equalization.
MREA will be soliciting your input on which proposals will best meet your districts’ needs. All are welcome, but primary audience is superintendents and business managers.
Small Schools Funding
Tuesday, October 18
3:30-4:30 pm
Per-pupil funding for schools with fewer than 750 students is leaving about 50,000 Minnesota students in 130 school districts with fewer opportunities. New requirements for English Language Learners (ELL) and the Learning for English Academic Proficiency Success (LEAPS) Act pose additional challenges and Greater Minnesota schools struggle to provide support to students in need of these services. School districts with fewer than 1,500 students are encouraged to join this virtual meeting to learn more about the opportunities for students, specifically ELL services.
Register
You must register at least one hour prior to each meeting you plan to attend to receive the virtual meeting access link and meeting materials. You will need a computer/device and internet access or a telephone to participate.
Call the MREA Office with questions at (320) 762-6574.
