Walz Administration Addressing Special Education Staff Shortage

(KNSI) – The Walz Administration is looking to beef up special education instructors and support staff.

On Wednesday, officials announced nearly $20 million in grants from the Minnesota Department of Education has been awarded to nearly 150 school districts and charter schools across the state. Fifteen of the grants went to Greater Minnesota.

They are intended to increase licensed professionals at the Tier 3 and Tier 4 levels, which involves the most intensive interventions and help. Governor Tim Walz says, “This is a big step on our path to building our education workforce and making Minnesota the best state for kids.”

Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan adds, “Special education teachers play a critical role in our schools. With these grants, we can ensure that special education professionals and students can thrive in Minnesota.”

The program is designed to take Tier 1 or Tier 2 educators, who are responsible for teaching an average class, and help them transition to a more specialized role.

Education Commissioner Willie Jett says the state is starting from a strong place. “We are working to create the best education workforce in the nation, and this program will help our schools and districts to prepare and recruit special education teachers and address the shortages now being experienced by districts and schools.”

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