MDE oversees $9.94M in grants for educator programs amid structural changes

In a pivotal meeting of the Minnesota Senate's Committee on Education Finance, significant changes to funding and program oversight for education were discussed, highlighting a strategic shift aimed at enhancing the educator workforce and student support systems.

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) announced a no-cost transfer of responsibilities from the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) to MDE, which will now oversee the Collaborative Urban and Greater Minnesota Educators of Color (COOGMEC) grant program and the Teacher Mentorship and Retention program. This transition involves a substantial financial backing of $5.44 million for COOGMEC and $4.5 million for mentorship initiatives, without increasing the full-time equivalent (FTE) positions at MDE.

Additionally, the committee proposed modifications to the student support personnel aid program, which aims to bolster the presence of essential staff such as nurses and psychologists in schools. Changes include allowing funds to be directed to cooperative units directly, rather than through individual districts, and ensuring that positions can be maintained even amid declining enrollment. The program will also be rebranded as the Support Personnel Pathway Grant Program to better reflect its objectives.

However, the meeting also revealed a significant reduction in funding for the "Grow Your Own" teacher support program, with an $8 million annual cut starting in fiscal year 2026. This decision was based on steady demand and the belief that existing funds would suffice to meet future needs.

These discussions underscore a commitment to refining educational support structures in Minnesota, aiming to create a more effective and responsive educational environment for both educators and students. The committee's decisions will likely shape the landscape of educational funding and support in the coming years.