Promote Educational Equity by Expanding Support and Funding for Private Schools in Minnesota

 

The purpose of this bill is to create equitable access to public funding and educational resources for private schools

in Minnesota.

This act will expand state support for families choosing private education, ensure private schools receive fair access

to educational grants and services, and recognize the contributions of private institutions to Minnesota’s overall

educational quality.

The Minnesota Department of Education will oversee implementation in partnership with participating private schools.

 

Private schools in Minnesota educate thousands of students, often easing the burden on public schools while offering

high-quality, diverse, and values-based education.

However, these schools receive little to no state support despite serving many middle- and low-income families.

This bill addresses funding inequities, supports parental choice, and promotes educational innovation.

By expanding access to public resources, Minnesota can foster a more equitable and flexible education system that

benefits all students, regardless of school type.

 

Private School – A non-public, K–12 educational institution located in Minnesota that is independently managed and

funded through tuition or private sources, and meets state education standards.

Educational Equity – The fair distribution of educational funding, resources, and opportunities among all students in

Minnesota, regardless of school type.

Education Choice Voucher – A state-funded scholarship that may be used by families toward tuition at an accredited

private school.

Low- and Middle-Income Student – A student from a household earning below 300% of the federal poverty line.

 

Funding for this program shall come from:

A reallocation of 5% of the Minnesota Department of Education’s discretionary education equity funds to the newly

established Private Education Resource Fund (PERF).

PERF funds shall be used for:

Need-based student scholarships and vouchers;

Teacher training and retention programs;

Technology and facility upgrades in accredited private schools;

Programs that increase access for low- and middle-income families.

Private schools participating in the program must submit an annual financial report to ensure transparency and proper

use of state funds.

 

The Minnesota Department of Education shall monitor compliance with the standards outlined in this Act.

Any private school found misusing funds will be required to repay the state in full and may lose eligibility for future

funding.

The Commissioner of Education shall have the authority to suspend or revoke participation for repeated violations.

 

This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026