Better Together Education Plan Introduced to Support Students, Educators, and Local Schools

St. Paul — Today, members of the Suburban Solutions Caucus announced the Better Together Education Plan, a comprehensive initiative designed to strengthen Minnesota schools by supporting educators, prioritizing student needs, and empowering local communities.

The Better Together Education Plan focuses on delivering resources to classrooms while reducing burdensome mandates that limit flexibility for schools. The proposal includes increased funding, innovative partnerships, and policies designed to help students succeed while ensuring educators have the tools they need.

“At the end of the day, strong schools require strong partnerships,” said Representative Andrew Myers. “The Better Together Education Plan recognizes that the best solutions come when educators, parents, students, and communities work together. Our goal is simple: focus resources where they matter most, directly in classrooms supporting students.”

A key component of the plan provides direct, flexible funding for schools while offering mandate relief, allowing local districts to prioritize spending based on the needs of their students and educators. The initiative also seeks to reprioritize education funding so that more dollars reach classrooms rather than being tied up in projects or administrative overhead that doesn’t benefit students.

The proposal also introduces a $1,700 education donation tax credit, allowing individuals to donate to local schools. Currently, Minnesotans can receive a federal tax credit for donations that help cover education expenses for children in other states, but not for children and schools in Minnesota. These donations would help districts reduce classroom sizes, expand tutoring and academic support, and improve resources—all at no cost to the state.

“As a school principal, I know just how important flexibility and resources are for educators working with students every day,” said Representative Ben Bakeberg. “The Better Together Education Plan empowers schools to focus on what truly matters, supporting students, strengthening classrooms, and giving educators the tools they need to help their students succeed.”

School safety is another major focus of the initiative. The Better Together Education Plan includes legislation to double school safety funding, which has not been increased in over a decade. The additional resources would allow schools to expand access to student mental health services, enhance prevention efforts, hire a school resource officer, and strengthen overall school safety.

“As a former school resource officer, I know how critical it is to ensure our schools are both safe and supportive environments for students,” said State Representative Jeff Witte. “By investing in school safety and expanding access to mental health resources, we are taking meaningful steps to protect students while helping them thrive in the classroom.”

The Better Together Education Plan was developed through collaboration with educators, school leaders, parents, students, and community stakeholders. Members of the Suburban Solutions Caucus emphasized that the initiative reflects a student-centered learning approach focused on proven results and practical solutions.

“Educators and families know what students need to succeed,” Myers said. “This plan is about listening to those boots on the ground voices and delivering solutions that support great teaching, strong schools, and better outcomes for students across Minnesota.”