West Twin Cities

Senate Republicans recently passed a resolution that would allow school districts across the state to individually choose the best option, in-person or remote instruction, for their students this fall.

“The best place for students to learn is in a school setting,” Sen. David Osmek said, according to Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus. “We all know this. Unfortunately, the current pandemic has undermined how we can safely and responsibly do this. While Gov. Walz believes that an overarching decision will serve Minnesotans best, I do not agree with him on this issue. Contrary to his belief, there is not a single answer for kids going back to school this fall. There are going to be multiple answers to this, and each community should be empowered to think creatively and to make those choices on their own.” 

Osmek also voted in favor of a $25 million grant to reopen schools but the measure did not make it to the floor.

The resolution limits Gov. Tim Walz's power and does not allow him to broadly open or close schools. The resolution allows each school district to consider school size, transportation needs, special education needs and technology access when making the decision about the best way to safely engage students this fall. 

Recent studies have shown that reopening schools safely this fall is important for the health and well-being of students. Nine out of 10 parents surveyed by Education Trust expressed worry that their children were falling behind because of the COVID-19 school closures. Sixty-four percent of Minnesota parents want their children back in school this fall, according to the Minnesota Department of Education.