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.

Florida is investigating a teacher who showed a Disney movie with a gay character
The film, Strange World, tells the story of a family of explorers and includes a character who has a crush on another boy. The fifth-grade teacher says a student's mother lodged a complaint.
Minnesota college faculty vote no confidence in president, seek change in leadership
Faculty at Northland Community & Technical College in northwest Minnesota have taken a vote of no confidence in President Sandy Kiddoo, citing declining enrollment and program accreditation issues.
Public concerned over rowdiness in Dinkytown, but officials say crime rates are down
People are worried about University of Minnesota campus safety after reports of several incidents over the weekend. Police are investigating and increasing their presence in the area.
How mental health programs focused on cultural identity are helping Minnesota students
The pandemic took a toll on students’ mental health. But not every student was affected in the same way. One program in Minnesota is working to provide culturally-specific mental health care from inside schools which are becoming increasingly racially and ethnically diverse.
How an APM podcast became part of a national movement to reform reading instruction
The APM podcast “Sold a Story” exposed what went wrong with teaching kids to read. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with APM senior producer Emily Hanford about the attention her work is getting from high places. 
'They all matter': St. Cloud high school dance team builds connections
Shana Black, coach of the Apollo Majorettes, welcomes all students regardless of experience. Her goal is to create an inclusive, supportive team where all students feel like they belong.
'I didn't believe it': Harding High School's Michael Houston on winning teacher of the year
Michael Houston of Harding High School in St. Paul was named the Minnesota Teacher of the Year for 2023. He chairs the math department and has worked at the east side school for 19 years.