Minnesota House Bill HF160

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23
• Refer: 3/16/23

Caption

Service-learning integrated into Minnesota's education system, evidence-based service-learning technical assistance and grant program established, reports required, and money appropriated.

Impact

The bill fundamentally reorganizes the approach to service-learning in Minnesota's education framework by empowering schools to form partnerships with community organizations, agencies, and businesses. By establishing a five-year grant program, HF160 provides financial support to facilitate innovative service-learning experiences that are student-designed and student-led. Funding is set to encourage collaboration among students, educators, and community partners, which could lead to significant enhancements in both educational outcomes and community well-being.

Summary

House File 160 (HF160) aims to integrate service-learning into Minnesota's education system, establishing a technical assistance and grant program designed to enhance evidence-based service-learning practices across K-12 schools. The primary goal of the bill is to enhance student engagement and academic achievement while addressing the achievement gap and fostering a positive school climate. This initiative is expected to be supported by a specialized service-learning position within the state's education department, tasked with coordinating grants and providing necessary technical assistance to schools and community-based organizations.

Contention

While HF160 has garnered support for promoting educational engagement, there are also potential concerns regarding the allocation of funds and the sustainability of such partnerships. Critics may question whether the grants will reach a broad base of schools equally or if particular areas might be favored. Furthermore, ensuring that the partnerships are genuinely beneficial and not merely procedural is vital for the long-term success and credibility of the program.

Evaluation

The bill also incorporates accountability measures, mandating evaluations of grant outcomes based on community outcomes achieved through service-learning activities. The results of these evaluations are expected to guide future funding and program adjustments, ensuring that the initiative is responsive to actual needs and impacts in the community. This iterative process is crucial for demonstrating the effectiveness of service-learning approaches in education.