Education News

MPR News keeps track of the latest education news in Minnesota so you can understand the events shaping the future of learning and how it impacts students at any level.

Stay informed about local education events, policies and more happening in schools and colleges across Minnesota.

As schools promise racial equity, the path forward is often met with resistance
After the killing of George Floyd, many Minnesota K-12 administrators publicly declared their commitment to making their schools more equal and inclusive. But experts say much more than public commitment and statements of support are needed to dismantle the long-running and deeply entrenched inequalities that plague Minnesota’s education system. 
Activists, scientists, authors among 'genius grant' fellows
Writers, a documentary filmmaker and an environmental health advocate are among the luminaries named as recipients of this year's "genius grants." The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation also selected University of Minnesota cognitive neuroscientist Damien Fair and the U’s chemical engineer Paul Dauenhauer for a grant.
Minnesota drivers can soon take permit exam at home
Starting this week, would-be Minnesota drivers hoping to get a learner’s permit will be able to take the knowledge test online. The move is aimed at relieving the long lines and six- to eight-week wait times people are experiencing at exam stations across the state during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Teachers, parents, districts at odds over learning scenarios
Most Minnesota students are receiving remote instruction five days a week or are getting a mix of virtual and in-person learning. The lapse in child care support for families means many parents are pushing back and scrambling to figure out their own solutions. This has put them at odds with some educators who say they still don't feel safe returning to school buildings.  
Limited winter prep sports seasons approved
Seasons will be delayed and shortened, and spectators will be limited or banned altogether. But the games will go on.
'A family affair': Others often chip in to help pay off student loans
Student debt doesn't only affect the person who goes to college. Nearly 40 percent of student loan payers are helping someone else pay off their student loans, a new study found.
Twin Cities educators seek assurances for safe return to classroom
Unions representing staff in Minneapolis and St. Paul district are asking for five things before switching the learning model in their districts from distance learning to hybrid models, which combine in-person and distance learning.
View from the dorms at the University of Minnesota: It's 'kind of a ghost town'
Campuses around the country, including in Minnesota, have seen cases spike as many students return. University of Minnesota first-year student Ella Kooyer spoke with MPR News Host Cathy Wurzer about her first couple weeks at school.