St. Paul – The Suburban Solutions Caucus unveiled today three education proposals for the 2024 legislative session. The legislative package includes House File 3553, authored by Rep. Ben Bakeberg, which provides a 2% increase to the basic education funding formula, House File 4007, authored by Rep. Andrew Myers, which increases the special-education cross-subsidy by 6%, bringing it to a full 50%, and House File 3808, authored by Rep. Danny Nadeau, which provides an opportunity for teachers to retire at 62 years old.
“These proposals are the direct result of listening to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to educating the next generation of Minnesotans. We took our direction from them, and we are excited to bring these solutions to the table on their behalf,” said Rep. Andrew Myers, R-Tonka Bay.
“Through the many conversations we have had, it has become clear that the education policy approach of last session, which included new mandates on schools and educators, has resulted in significant challenges for both,” said Rep. Danny Nadeau, R-Rogers. “Academic excellence is driven by good schools and good teachers. Flexible funding empowers good schools, and certainty around retirement benefits helps to attract and retain teachers to the profession. Ours is a commonsense approach to addressing many of the needs we have heard about first-hand from the boots on the ground.”
Suburban Solutions Caucus members developed the proposal through hours of conversation with teachers, principals, and school administrators to better understand the challenges facing educators across Minnesota.
“As we reached out to educators across Minnesota and spent time with them, it became clear that their concerns have not been listened to by majorities in the House and Senate,” said Rep. Ben Bakeberg, R-Jordan. “In addition to these conversations, I also have a deep understanding of the shortcomings of last year’s education bill from my own experience as an educator. Strong schools and providing students access to a world-class education are top priorities for myself as a father, an educator, and for the suburban families that I am honored to represent. Our proposal directly addresses many of the concerns we have heard and will lessen the funding shortfalls so many schools are experiencing.”
The Suburban Solutions Caucus was formed this past summer as a new initiative to address the challenges facing suburban families and communities in Minnesota by seeking positive solutions through working together and listening. Members include Rep. Danny Nadeau, R-Rogers, Rep. Andrew Myers, R-Tonka Bay, Rep. Ben Bakeberg, R-Jordan, Rep. Jeff Witte, R-Lakeville, Rep. Patti Anderson, R-Dellwood, Rep. Shane Hudella, R-Hastings, and Rep. Mark Wiens, R-Lake Elmo.
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