December 5, 1996 - State lawmakers opened a new chapter in public education six years ago by creating an alternative school structure for new and innovative learning programs. Minnesota's first charter school opened in 1992. Today, there are 19 schools with enrollment totaling 21-hundred students. State education officials are currently reviewing the progress of charter schools. The Department of Children, Families and Learning will present a report to the state legislature in January. Charter school advocates say they're creating a flexible and creative learning option for children, but some question whether the schools have enough money to succeed.
December 4, 1996 - Teachers, school administrators, legislators and public policy watchers throughout Minnesota are waiting today to hear Governor Carlson's education proposals for the 1997 session. Carlson has vowed to make education his top priority during his remaining two years in office. The Governor is scheduled to unveil his plan this morning at an elementary school in Golden Valley.
December 4, 1996 -
December 4, 1996 - Governor Carlson describes his education plan for the 1997 legislative session as a bold proposal and is asking lawmakers to give it a chance. Carlson outlined his education reform agenda today in Golden Valley. The plan includes a controversial program of tax incentives to families with children in private or public schools. DFL critics say the Republican Governor is simply repackaging his failed voucher plan from last year. Carlson is challenging those critics to produce their own ideas for improving education in the state.