Rep. Bidal Duran Addresses Potential Closure of J.W. Smith Elementary

St. Paul — Representative Bidal Duran (R–Bemidji) issued the following statement regarding the potential closure of J.W. Smith Elementary School:

“The possible closure of J.W. Smith is deeply concerning to families across Bemidji. This school serves students who rely on stability, strong support systems, and community connection. No one wants to see a neighborhood school close.”

Rep. Duran said the difficult position facing Bemidji Area Schools is the predictable result of mounting financial pressure created by state policy decisions over the past six years.

“House Republicans warned that layering excessive and unfunded mandates onto school districts would create serious consequences,” Duran said. “Unfortunately, we are now seeing those consequences play out.”

According to district estimates, recent state-imposed requirements and funding formula changes have added well over $1 million per year in additional financial strain. These include expanded summer unemployment insurance obligations, new statewide paid leave mandates, changes to compensatory aid calculations, and reduced reimbursement for special education transportation.

“Everywhere we went last session and over the summer, we heard the same concern from local officials and administrators,” Duran said. “They are being asked to meet growing state demands with limited and unpredictable funding.”

Bemidji Area Schools are now confronting a multi-million-dollar shortfall, leading to difficult decisions that directly impact students and families.

“When the state shifts long-term costs onto local districts without fully funding them, districts are left with fewer options,” Duran said. “Closing a school becomes a last resort when financial flexibility disappears.”

Rep. Duran stated he will continue working to reduce unfunded mandates, restore fairness to education funding formulas, and provide school districts with steady, sustainable support.

“Our community deserves a system that supports local schools rather than squeezing them,” Duran said. “We need responsible budgeting at the state level so districts like Bemidji are not forced into decisions like this again.”

Rep. Duran encourages constituents with questions or concerns to contact his office.

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