Dear Neighbors,
Governor Walz has called the Legislature back for a special session, beginning on Monday.
A top priority for me continues to be delivering a bipartisan jobs and local projects or “bonding” bill, that fixes crumbling or incomplete public infrastructure. Coon Rapids and Champlin are in need of many dire improvements to various local projects in our area, including an expansion of Mississippi Point Park, the Mississippi Crossings redevelopment, the Coon Rapids Recycling Center, and making critical road fixes to improve traffic on Highway 10. With the recent news of Anoka-Ramsey Community College preparing to reopen in the fall, now more than ever, they’ll need assistance repairing and expanding their lab and classroom spaces for the nursing department. This is another bonding project I’ve authored for our communities.
A special session requires a renewed commitment to work together to get the job done. Last year we balanced our state budget as one of the only divided state legislatures in the country. I am optimistic we can find common ground with the Senate to help the people of Minnesota in these challenging times of a global pandemic.
MDE Back-to-School Survey Results
With still so much uncertainty around COVID-19 remaining, the House Education Committees recently discussed what school could look like in the fall – whether K-12 schools will fully reopen, if distance learning will continue, or if some sort of a hybrid will be introduced. School districts are trying to plan for all three scenarios.
The Minnesota Department of Education yesterday released the results of a surveyasking Minnesota families about their experience with distance learning and their thoughts on the upcoming school year. They received over 130,000 responses, which showed that 64% of respondents selected that they would feel comfortable sending their students back to school.
A decision on the upcoming school year is expected to be announced later this month.
Keep in Touch
With the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, please remember to take good care by maintaining a six foot distance from others, frequently washing your hands for 20 seconds, wearing a mask to protect yourself and our neighbors, and getting testedwhen you feel sick.
Don’t hesitate to reach out anytime with questions or input at rep.zack.stephenson@house.mn.
It’s an honor to serve our Champlin and Coon Rapids families at the Minnesota House.
Sincerely,
Zack Stephenson
State Representative