Education and Workforce Development

Historically, Minnesota’s K-12 education system has been recognized as one of the top performing systems in the nation. Overall, our students have performed well on the ACT college entrance exams and the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP exams). 

Unfortunately, the data indicates that Minnesota’s high rankings may be largely due to student demographics that mask a large achievement gap between white and non-white students. Minnesota’s achievement gap is especially concerning because students of color are the fastest-growing segment of our population. Not surprisingly, achievement gaps in education contribute to employment and wage gaps.

To position Minnesota for success in the global economy, policymakers should set rigorous standards, measure and report student progress, and give educators and families flexibility to most effectively meet children’s academic needs.