Bill > SF551

This bill provides funding and establishes guidelines for the Building Assets, Reducing Risks (BARR) Center, a program aimed at improving educational outcomes in schools. Specifically, the bill appropriates $10 million for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the BARR Center's efforts to deliver an evidence-based program in schools. The center will be required to select at least 40 schools that are geographically diverse and serve high-poverty or underrepresented student populations, with a focus on Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities. The program's primary goals include improving students' social and emotional skills, increasing academic achievement and engagement, enhancing teacher effectiveness, and boosting high school graduation rates. The BARR Center must apply for grants through the commissioner of education and provide school coaching, professional development, and resources over a three-year period. Up to 3% of the appropriation can be used for grant administration, and the funds will be available for two years after their initial appropriation. The bill emphasizes supporting schools with high concentrations of students from diverse and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Budget and Finance

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF0551&ssn=0&y=2025