Great MN Schools
We’re living through a moment of rapid change and rising uncertainty in public education. Shifting political dynamics, budget constraints, and a federal government stepping back from its traditional role are leaving states, schools, and nonprofits to navigate a complex and evolving landscape—often without clear guidance or guardrails.
Amid this uncertainty, one thing is clear: the stakes for students are too high to wait and see. Now is the time to take stock, understand the forces at play, and chart a path forward. That means not only adapting to what’s happening nationally and locally —but also leveraging local strengths, building shared strategies, and staying grounded in what’s best for kids.
Here’s what we’re seeing, what it means, and how we can respond—together.
Federal and State Roles in K-12 Education: What’s Changing?
The federal government has long served as a critical backstop in education—providing funding, regulation, and data infrastructure. But that role is rapidly shrinking. Through a series of sweeping executive actions, the current Administration is signaling a clear shift: a pledge to return education authority to the states. These actions include:
- Rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies
- Increasing immigration enforcement and deportations
- Slashing federal support for data systems, research, and innovation
- Expanding school choice and parental rights
- Proposing to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education
What does this look like in Minnesota?
Minnesota is already acting as though federal oversight has little influence—resisting mandates on accountability, standards, and teacher diversity. New federal waivers and block grants may give states more flexibility, but without safeguards, they risk deepening inequities. Minnesota’s outdated funding formula already fails to equitably support schools, and shifting how funds are distributed could further shortchange the students who need the most support. Policy and mindset shifts already underway at the Legislature include:
- Resistance to Mandates: Accountability, student protections, and academic standards were all on the chopping block, but did not gain traction or advance in the legislature
- Education Funding: Policymakers proposed about $500m in Pre-K cuts over the next two years while increasing higher education budgets.
- Partisan Dynamics: A nearly evenly divided legislature, a growing budget deficit, and declining trust in the Executive Branch make it difficult to reach consensus—even as the need for policy solutions, like a new school funding formula, grows more urgent.
How Do We Navigate this Moment?
Whether or not these proposed federal changes are enacted, the Administration’s public stance is already reshaping the policy environment. We can—and should—use this moment to lead with purpose, not just power. But doing so requires careful strategy and strong partnerships. Here’s how:
- Beware of over-compliance—Over-compliance can turn the Administration’s assertions of greater authority into a self-fulfilling prophecy.
- Understand authority—know what actions are within and outside of legal limits.
- Stay focused on mission, while balancing legal and reputational risks.
- Leverage philanthropic autonomy—be a bridge, not a replacement for government.
- Build coalitions—shared understanding makes challenges more manageable.
- Slow it down – Avoid urgency traps, take the time to get it right, especially with funding decisions.
When federal funding shifts to the state level, responsibility for shaping the future of education will fall more heavily on local leaders, advocates, and funders. This moment demands more than reactive measures. It requires a proactive, collaborative strategy to uphold accountability, ensure funding is directed where it’s needed most, and align investments with the intended purpose of each funding source. Bold leadership and a shared commitment to equity are essential to ensure that every child, no matter their background or zip code, gets the education they deserve.
Dig Deeper: Resources to Explore
Education First Website with resources, including Facts in the Flood, Federal Education Policy Primer
Federal Funding to States – MN fact sheet
Separating the Signal From the Noise AmplifiEd Podcast
Education Counsel