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In Minnesota, when any student comes to our public schools, we throw open the doors and welcome them with open arms. Every student, irrespective of their race, religion or ethnicity, has a place in our classrooms and the right to an excellent education. We are devoted to ensuring that right.
Our state is stronger because of so many who have chosen to make Minnesota their home, including refugees, immigrants and people seeking asylum. In many cases, it is often up to our schools to lay the foundation for children and families as they forge a new life in a new land.
Below is a list of resources to help you in your efforts to meet the needs of students who may be impacted by recent federal administrative actions. Navigating this increasingly complex landscape for students and families requires sensitivity, discretion and support. The situation remains fluid and is unlikely to be resolved soon, and many, including those of us in state government, will continue working to gain further clarity about potential impacts to students and families. In the immediate future, the Minnesota Attorney General’s office is advising against discretionary travel out of the United States for anyone who is from one of the seven countries included in the recent executive order, including students. The executive order does not apply to students who are citizens of the United States.
Please continue to reach out to MDE if you have questions or are in need of guidance on specific situations. We are here as a resource for you and students. And thank you for your tireless commitment to all of our students and their families.
Dr. Brenda Cassellius
Commissioner
Resources
- In Minnesota, the Safe and Supportive Schools Act provides a framework for establishing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students in the state and the School Safety Technical Assistance Center is ready to support districts in this work. The center can be reached by email at MDE.SSTAC@state.mn.us or by phone at 651-582-8364. For resources to address bias-based bullying, discrimination and harassment, visit the School Safety Technical Assistance Center website.
- State’s Attorney General, Lori Swanson: http://www.ag.state.mn.us/
- Minnesota State Bar Association: http://www.mnfindalawyer.com/
Can provide referrals to attorneys with immigration expertise
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