MDE Asks For Comments, Stories Amid US Education Department Shutdown

ST. PAUL, MN — The Minnesota Department of Education is asking students, parents, and teachers to share their stories following President Donald Trump's Executive Order he signed Thursday to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

MDE launched a public feedback portal for people to submit detailed accounts of the ways the abrupt federal education cuts are impacting schools and children across the state.

"Instability and uncertainty are not strategies, but collaboration is," said MDE Commissioner Willie Jett.

"In Minnesota, we know strong public education relies on policy decisions that are based on the real experiences of students, families, and educators. In the face of unpredictable federal action, MDE will amplify Minnesotans’ stories as we continue to advocate for the stability, resources, and policies schools need to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed."

State officials said that federal investments have played a key role in ensuring students in Minnesota receive the support they need to learn and thrive, including:

• $256 million for students with disabilities
• $192 million for students from low-income backgrounds
• $27 million for academic enrichment
• $6 million for students in rural schools
• $38 million to support children living on military bases or Native American reservations
• $100 million for Career and Technical Education workforce development programs

On Feb. 5, MDE requested details on how essential programs and protections housed within the U.S. Department of Education would be affected—but as of now, the agency says it has received no response.