Commentary; Posted: 5/2/07
State education funding at crossroads
Sen. Rick Olseen
Guest Columnist
Minnesota used to be nationally recognized as a leader for our investment in education. Unfortunately, during the budget crisis, the state fell behind in our commitment to our schools, and as a result, our rankings have slipped.
In recent years, Minnesota has been ranked 46th nationally in education spending growth. We’re ranked 49th in education technology and innovation. From 1998 to 2004, Minnesota fell from 15th to 22nd in per-pupil funding.
At the same time the state is falling behind nationally, Minnesota homeowners are actually paying more towards education through increased property taxes. Due to stagnant state funding, school districts have been forced to rely on local levies just to maintain current programming levels. We are now paying more and getting less for education.
Right now, the way I see it, the state is at a crossroads. We can either continue on our current path or choose to make a real investment in our children’s education and the future of the state. I believe our children deserve the best possible education and have chosen to support efforts that move our schools forward.
The Minnesota Senate’s plan chooses to make this investment through:
•A 2 percent general education formula increase, which would increase per-student funding by $100 in 2008 and then again in 2009.
•Providing early childhood allowances to help families pay for pre-kindergarten education services.
•Increasing funding to higher education to hold down tuition increases and fund financial aid.
•Providing $110 million in property tax relief.
•Covering more of the state’s obligation to fund special education.
•Early Childhood Family Education funding is restored to 2003 levels.
•Funding for technology and after-school enrichment grants.
•$100,000 to study Minnesota’s schools’ ability to implement all-day kindergarten.
I know every single legislator serving in Minnesota has heard from their constituents about how they want the best education possible for their kids. I hope that this priority will resonate with both bodies of the Legislature and the governor. I firmly believe it is our responsibility to make our state a better place, and to do that a real investment in education needs to be passed into law this session.
The House is now in the process of passing its budget bills, like we did in the Senate a few weeks ago. Once those bills are passed, conference committees will be appointed to work out the differences.
When bill language is agreed upon, both legislative bodies will pass the legislation and forward it on to the governor for his signature.
I encourage your questions or comments on any issue. You may call me at 651-296-5419, send an e-mail to sen.rick.olseen@senate.mn, or write to G-24 State Capitol, St. Paul, MN 55155.
The writer is the DFL state senator from District 17.
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