Minneapolis teacher strike comes against backdrop of state surplus, education funding fights

Teachers union leaders say the strike is a message to both district leaders and state lawmakers

Mar 14, 20220

Glen Stubbe, Star Tribune count

Minneapolis educators gathered at the State Capitol on Wednesday, the second day of their strike.

Thousands of Minneapolis educators are on strike over a push for higher wages, smaller classes and more mental health support for students in a district facing a multi-million dollar budget shortfall.

But the local dispute over finances has also raised questions about another pot of money: the state's record $9.3 billion surplus.

The union took its walkout to the State Capitol lawn on Wednesday. On Thursday, a small group of parents and advocates, not tied to the union, rallied outside the Governor's residence pushing for more state funding for education. And Minneapolis Public Schools, too, has said it would welcome more funding from the state.

https://www.startribune.com/minneapolis-teacher-strike-comes-against-backdrop-of-state-surplus-education-funding-fights/600155676/