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ST. PAUL, Minn., Jan. 8, 2014 -- Education Minnesota President Denise Specht on Thursday praised the Minnesota Senate for its ambitious education agenda, but expressed disappointment the House aimed so low.
 
“The Senate is addressing some of the most pressing needs of Minnesota students and their families by expanding access to pre-kindergarten programs, vocational and technical education and mental health services in rural areas,” Specht said. “These are big ideas to solve big problems. We still need to study the details, but Minnesota’s educators applaud the ambition of the Senate majority.”
 
“In contrast, the House education agenda apparently consists of new layoff regulations for teachers and a package of policies around the licensing of educators that may make it easier for less-qualified teachers to get into Minnesota classrooms,” Specht said. “There’s a huge gap between these policies and the challenges educators and parents see in their schools every day. I hope House leaders will work with educators this session and aim a little higher.”
 
About Education Minnesota
Education Minnesota represents 70,000 professionals working together for excellence in education for all students. Education Minnesota’s members include teachers and education support professionals in Minnesota’s public school districts, faculty members at Minnesota’s community and technical colleges and University of Minnesota campuses in Duluth and Crookston, retired educators and student teachers. Education Minnesota is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and AFL-CIO.