While there are a number of contrasts in the situations of metropolitan and rural districts, they all must deal with similar issues as well. In recent years, funding increases have not kept up with expenditure increases. The search for extra dollars has used up most district fund balances and has caused districts to reduce program offerings. Some districts are facing substantial reductions in revenue when the renewal of an excess levy fails. Minnesota is in the process of developing a statewide graduation standard that will specify the results expected of students rather than the courses the students must have taken to graduate.
Some districts see such a standard as an opportunity to restructure the way they offer education.
Rather than struggling to find ways to offer the appropriate number of hours of the required courses and a decent number of electives, schools could design course offerings that meet student requirements in a more creative manner. All rights reserved. Disclaimer and copyright information.