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.

New Hamline president wants to build trust — then enrollment
Hamline University is welcoming Kathleen Murray as its newest leader during a time of increased attention to academic freedom on campus. She spoke with MPR News about bolstering free speech and trust within the community.
The FAFSA rollout has been rough on students. The biggest problem is yet to come
The Education Department has made a big mistake with this year’s FAFSA — one that could cost students financial aid they’re entitled to. It’s now grappling with how to implement a fix.
Former U of M professor's estate gifts record $6.5 million to Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul has received a $6.5 million gift — the largest in the museum’s history, from the estate of William D. Wells, a former University of Minnesota professor who died in 2020.
As mental health worries rise for Black Minnesotans, focus shifts to strengthening kids, caregivers
The well-being of young children and their caregivers is closely connected, and children struggle when adults struggle. For Black Minnesota kids and their families, poverty and racism compound those problems. Charting a path forward includes preparing kids for a “harsh world,” one expert says.
 Minnesota kids love outdoor learning. Lawmakers are paying attention
A recent visit with fifth graders to Wolf Ridge in northeastern Minnesota helps to understand why the state’s outdoor learning centers are popular, and why lawmakers are interested in expanding the idea.
Harvard president Claudine Gay resigns amid plagiarism claims, backlash from antisemitism testimony
Harvard University President Claudine Gay resigned Tuesday amid plagiarism accusations and criticism over testimony at a congressional hearing where she was unable to say unequivocally that calls on campus for the genocide of Jews would violate the school’s conduct policy.
Q&A: Documentary looks at 2013 Hopkins High School walkout
Independent journalist Ralph L. Crowder III has directed a documentary, “Before Black Lives Mattered, the Kids Marched for Education.” He aims to highlight the influence the 2013 walkout had in a larger conversation about equality in education, as well as correct the narrative from media coverage at the time.
UW-La Crosse chancellor fired for making porn. Will his free speech argument stand?
Joe Gow was fired for making and starring in online pornography with his wife. Now, he’s arguing his termination is a violation of his right to free speech. A University of Minnesota media law and First Amendment expert told MPR News that “it’s a ‘two things can be true’ kind of argument.”