Laura listens as little children read at the Belle Plaine Library. To help generate public support and some incidental revenue for local school districts, Rep. Brod authored legislation authorizing "Kids First" license plates in the State of Minnesota.

Putting Kids First

Laura Brod understands the importance of educating our children so they are well-equipped to succeed in the future.

Making a Solid Investment in Our Future

At the beginning of the last legislative session, many were calling on the legislature for at least a 2.5% to 3% increase in education funding for the next two years. In the end, the agreed-upon school funding increase was actually 8%—4% for each of the next two years—bringing the state's investment in education to $12.6 billion.

Spending Wisely To Ensure Statewide Equity

Laura Brod believes that fairness in education funding should be a priority. “No matter where a student lives, they should be able to achieve to their fullest potential,” says Brod, who has concurred on a legislation such as revising integration aid and increasing equalization aid. Both these measures will help many school districts throughout the state, including those in our area. Brod adds that we "need to simplify the general education formula so that it is much more understandable and defensible." Rep. Brod has put forth a number of initiatives that will provide for a more fair tax system for voter-approved school capital levy referendums.

Realizing It's About More Than Money

“Minnesota has traditionally invested significant funds in our schools. In my view," notes Laura Brod, "this is a proper prioritization of funds. However, the discussion cannot just be about the money. When looking at the numbers, it is clear that funding is important, but is certainly not the absolute determining factor for education quality or student achievement.”

We have to better understand that the education discussion must broaden so that it is not just about how much, but also about how well the money is spent and whether expected outcomes are being met. "As a state which has traditionally been a leader in education, we need to continue looking for and being open to change as we seek to build on the legacy of success of Minnesota schools into the future."