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Minnesota schools will soon require ethnic studies. Here’s what that might look like
State leaders say it’s crucial students understand the political and social struggles of people of color, new immigrants and Indigenous communities. A look inside one St. Paul classroom shows how that might work.
Minnesota budget projected surplus at $2.4 billion, but warning lights blinking
State finance officials released a broad report detailing Minnesota’s economy, spending and a potential budget surplus that sets the tone for the 2024 legislative session. The state’s budget commissioner, though, offered a cautionary view on the long-term forecast.
Minneapolis adopts new budget amid calls to stop encampment closures
More than 60 people testified at the final public hearing on the city’s budget, many asking the council to intervene on the camp’s behalf and arguing that people will die if the camp is evicted.  
Democrats keep Dakota County seat in Minnesota House special election
Bianca Virnig, a Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan school board member, won a special election for a Minnesota House seat, preserving the DFL’s hold on a district around Eagan and Mendota Heights.
New creative studio for kids opens in Whittier Recreation Center
Spark’d Studio in Whittier Recreation Center in Minneapolis is a new youth space with computers, video cameras, audio equipment and a range of media and art classes. The parks board space is open for kids to drop by after school for free.  
Twin Cities airman among 8 killed in Air Force Osprey crash
An Air Force officer from the Twin Cities was among the eight airmen killed in a crash in Japan last week. Maj. Jeffrey Hoernemann, of Andover, Minn., served as an instructor pilot and training officer.
Cougar caught on camera in Minneapolis; latest in string of sightings in Midwest
A home surveillance camera picked up an unexpected passerby in the Lowry Hill neighborhood of Minneapolis early Monday: a cougar striding calmly down the alley. It’s the latest in a series of sightings in the region in recent months.