A constitutional amendment decision will appear for voters on the November 3rd ballot pertaining to the permanent school fund. School Districts have received minimal proceeds from this fund since 1858 and the question on ballots across the state will ask if it can be raised.
ACGC School Board Chair Jeanna Lilleberg is not taking sides on the issue, but wants people to be aware that it will be on the ballot and to do some research before they vote. She says if you choose to just ignore it and leave it blank when you are voting, it will count as a “no” vote.
Lilleberg says the fund currently pays school districts about $58 per student and if the amendment passes, it would increase to about $101 per student. She says it’s not tied to our property or income taxes, but rather, it’s part of the school trust lands which gets revenue from things like timber sales and mining leases. Lilleberg says you can do a search on the internet for “Minnesota Permanent School Fund Amendment” to find more information.
Great idea. A lot of our rural schools are really struggling.
The foundation and competitive advantage America has enjoyed over the last several decades is due our strength in education. The ability to critically think and the door for curiosity is opened. This is our foundation for our innovative nature. As this is not a tax and is paid for by trust, the amendment should be include flexibility to grow as needed.
I support this change.
I am all for giving school districts more funds, so long as the funds are not going to increased teacher pay! When will the teacher’s unions be held accountable for the dismal performance results of their students?