State legislators tell Austin board they are working on special-education funding, paid leave fixes and teacher recruitment
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Summary
State legislators met with the Austin Public School District board to discuss special education funding shortfalls, the sustainability of Minnesota's paid family leave program, PSEO and concurrent-enrollment concerns, and teacher recruitment initiatives including apprenticeships.
State legislators attended the Austin Public School District board meeting to hear local concerns and to outline possible state actions on several education-related issues.
Representative (named in transcript) told the board the legislature is focused on special-education funding and the administrative burden on special-education staff. She said the federal funding commitment originally envisioned (40 percent) has not materialized and state funding has not matched federal expectations. "The federal government has not upheld their part," she said, arguing the state must find ways to make mandates manageable for districts.
A state senator (named in transcript) discussed the Minnesota paid family leave program and the program's fiscal pressures. He said initial enrollment and claims levels make the program unsustainable at current rates without adjustments, and described options such as raising the payroll tax within a pre-set statutory cap or phasing benefits. He warned that some small businesses and local governments are concerned about the program's generosity and potential business impact.
Board members and delegates pressed legislators on concurrent enrollment/PSEO funding and how costs shift between high schools and community colleges. A delegate reported the district's potential exposure to PSEO costs could be roughly $325,000 if the program is not fully funded. Legislators said reevaluation of concurrent enrollment rules and clearer parameters for online learning are under consideration.
Legislators also addressed school safety concerns raised by board members; they said lawmakers can pursue funding for counselors and security measures but that some issues fall under federal jurisdiction. Both legislators encouraged continued, civil dialogue across parties and more localized feedback on proposed statutory changes.
The session was largely informational; legislators asked for district input as bills are drafted and offered to follow up on specific local questions.