Even though summer is around the corner, students across Minnesota may be using that time to catch up from pandemic-related gaps in learning.
As much as summer break is often the time of relaxation and leisurely fun, for many Minnesotan students, it will most likely be a game of catch-up, after the House on Tuesday passed HF 1064 (Davnie, DFL- Minneapolis).
This proposal would appropriate $104.5 million to provide additional summer programming. The bill aims to make up for pandemic learning loss. It is now on it’s way to the Senate, where it is sponsored by Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes).
In addition to addressing enrollment loss by increasing the declining enrollment formula replacement percentage from 28 percent to 48.5 percent for fiscal year 2021 and a $20 million appropriation to provide grants to low-income children, other significant investments during fiscal year 2021 include:
- $10 million for field trips and hands-on learning opportunities
- $10 million to increase funding for adult basic education programming
- $6 million for summer programming for high school graduates at public postsecondary institutions
- $6 million to expand school-linked mental health grants
- $5 million for summer academic mentoring or tutoring for students
- $5 million for after-school community learning programs
- $3 million for additional math corps activities
- $2 million for additional reading corps activities
- $2 million for expedited grants for full-service community schools
