The list manager makes a good point about the need for a Minneapolis-specific discussion of school funding issues. The school board has already held two public meetings about the budget, and has invited city residents to also weigh-in electronically at their web site www.mpls.k12.mn.us/ In the past, many Mpls public school parents had tremendous frustration with the district's process around the budget. Any public discussions were usually held without adequate public notice, and very late in the process. There was little, if any thought to involving the public in these efforts. This year, however, the Board has initiated an unprecedented public outreach effort. It will be important for all us who are concerned about the future of Mpls Schools to participate in the process. I applaud Board chair Catherine Shreves and other school board members who value this kind of public discussion and dialogue. I, for one, would like to make sure that the District does not cut its "Impact Aid" which has helped schools in Southwest Mpls deal with proposed cuts over the last four years. Frank Hornstein Ward 13, Parent Co-Chair Barton Open School Leadership Council
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