Nearly $20 million In Grants To Be Used To Increase Number Of Special Education Teachers Statewide

According to the release, 15 of the grants — totaling about $13 million — were awarded to Greater Minnesota, and the other 10 grants($7 million) to metro schools.

ST PAUL, Minn. — Dozens of school districts across Minnesota were awarded grants to help increase the number of special education teachers.

Nearly $20 million in grants will be spread out across 25 Minnesota school districts, charter schools and cooperatives as part of the education bill Gov. Tim Walz signed last spring.

“With this funding, educators and schools will be able to help more students get the resources they need to succeed,” said Walz in a press release. “This is a big step on our path to building our education workforce and making Minnesota the best state for kids.”

According to the release, the Minnesota Department of Education awarded 15 of the grants — totaling about $13 million — to Greater Minnesota, and the other 10 grants ($7 million) to schools in the metro.

“I’m proud of the work Minnesota is doing to make sure every student and educator has the resources they need,” said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. “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 funds will be used for tuition assistance and support, including mentoring and test prep, for people looking to become special education teachers.

SOURCE: KARE 11