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.

Special education advocacy group reacts to U.S. Education Department cuts
The U.S. Department of Education is expected to shrink by half. One of the agency’s major roles is to make sure students with disabilities can get an education, and parent advocates are bracing for effects to their children with disabilities.
Minnesota homeschooling leaped during COVID and counts continue to climb
After Minnesota schools shut their doors at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 10,000 families decided to educate their children at home. Five years later, the number of homeschoolers statewide is even higher.
More than 50 universities face federal investigations as part of Trump’s anti-DEI campaign
More than 50 universities — including the University of Minnesota — are being investigated for alleged racial discrimination as part of President Donald Trump’s campaign to end diversity, equity and inclusion programs his officials say exclude white and Asian American students.
Minnesota, 21 other states sue to halt dismantling of U.S. Education Department
The lawsuit filed in federal court in Massachusetts argues dismantling the federal Department of Education is unconstitutional and usurps congressional authority. It seeks a court order to halt the shutdown.
Walz warns Department of Education cuts could put students, schools at risk
Gov. Tim Walz said cuts at the Department of Education could cause budget troubles and confusion at public schools across the state, after the department said it’s cutting half its staff.
USDA cuts farm-to-school food funding in Minnesota
The promised federal funds would have reimbursed schools for locally-purchased food. It would have represented the largest amount ever invested in Minnesota farm-to-school or farm-to-food shelf funding. Observers say USDA’s decision is a significant blow.
U of M says it's committed to combating antisemitism amid federal probes
The University of Minnesota says it’s working to address antisemitism on campus, amid federal investigations spurred by protests against Israel. Recent federal actions are raising alarms for pro-Palestinian and civil rights advocates, who say it’s a violation of free speech.