The program will be archived online for later listening. The 1995 merger of Minnesota's state universities, community colleges and technical colleges created one of the largest public higher education systems in the country. Supporters hope the merged system will reduce overhead, improve education and streamline transfers among institutions.
Critics say they are far from reaching the goals and change has been slow and difficult.
Our show will look at what has been accomplished in the merger and the work that remains to be done. Senate Majority Leader Roger Moe - Moe was the primary supporter in the legislature for the merger. He continues to support the concept and says although progress is slow, they are moving in the right direction. Although there is not an overall teaching shortage, administrators are scrambling to fill openings in special education, math, science and industrial arts. Early retirement and an aging teaching force have also meant record openings for some districts.