1. The Background
For decades, the state of Minnesota has maintained a commitment to funding essential educational services for all students, regardless of whether they attend public or nonpublic schools. These services include nursing, counseling, instructional aids, and transportation—critical components that ensure students receive a well-rounded and supportive educational experience. The state’s investment in nonpublic pupil aid and transportation aid has provided necessary resources to families who choose nonpublic education, contributing to student success and broader cost savings for taxpayers. However, this long-standing commitment is now under threat.

2. The Issue
The Governor’s proposed budget eliminates all funding for nonpublic pupil aid and nonpublic transportation aid. This decision will have severe consequences, including:
• A loss of nearly $1,000 per student per year in funding for essential services and transportation.
• Increased financial burden on nonpublic schools and their families, leading to higher tuition costs.
• Disproportionate harm to low-income and middle-income families, many of whom depend on nonpublic schools to meet their children’s unique educational needs.
• The elimination of access to critical services such as textbooks, instructional materials, standardized testing, health services, and guidance counseling.
• A worsening school transportation crisis, as the cuts will reduce bus availability, exacerbate the shortage of drivers, increase congestion, and drive up costs for both nonpublic and public schools.
• A loss of cost-saving efficiencies for school districts, as nonpublic pupil aid is directly reimbursed to districts, ensuring a more streamlined distribution of resources.

By eliminating these services, the state is not only putting thousands of students and families at a disadvantage, but also undermining a cost-effective partnership that saves taxpayers more than $500 million annually by keeping nonpublic school students from shifting to public schools.

3. The Solution
Legislators must take action to oppose the Governor’s budget proposal and preserve these essential services and resources for nonpublic students and families. By maintaining these programs, Minnesota can:
• Ensure equitable access to essential educational resources for all students.
• Support families in making the best educational choices for their children without unnecessary financial hardship.
• Address the growing student mental health crisis by preserving access to guidance and counseling services.
• Maintain an efficient and coordinated transportation system that benefits both public and nonpublic students.

Minnesota’s commitment to these services has been a fundamental aspect of its educational policy for decades. Protecting these services is essential for student well-being, family choice, and the continued financial stability of both nonpublic and public schools.

4. Actions to Take
Your voice matters. Together, we can protect educational choice, support families, and ensure that all Minnesota students—regardless of where they attend school—receive the resources they need to thrive.
Now is the time to stand up for Minnesota’s nonpublic school students and families. Here’s what you can do:
• Contact Your Legislators: Urge them to oppose the elimination of nonpublic pupil aid and transportation aid in the Governor’s proposed budget. Share how these cuts will impact your family and community.
• Engage with MINNDEPENDENT: Join efforts with nonpublic schools and advocacy groups to amplify your voice and advocate for continued funding.
• Stay Informed: Follow legislative updates and participate in any public hearings or discussions related to education funding.
• Spread Awareness: Inform friends, neighbors, and school communities about the proposed cuts and encourage them to take action.

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