The Feb. 13 listening session in Minneapolis was held at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. These were some of the comments from participants.

What’s working well?

• Teacher/staff collaboration.
• This area has exceptional teachers.
• Parent involvement in the schools.
• The inclusion of a diverse population.

What are some of the challenges schools face?

• Budget cuts.
• Large class sizes.
• Program cuts.
• Increased activity fees and added costs.
• Large class sizes with a diverse population of students.
• Specific populations within the schools aren’t being served.
• The multiplication of school districts.
• Mandatory testing has led to the underdevelopment of higher order thinking skills.
• Lack of creative instruction.
• There is a lack of seasoned teachers working in high-needs schools.
• Rising activity fees discriminate between students who can afford to participate and those who can’t.

What do schools need to provide?

• Basic life skills should be taught.
• Quality, equal programs for all school districts.
• There should be a balance of funds and opportunities among the schools.
• Cooperation among school districts is just as important as competition.
• Businesses want highly educated students to come out of the schools and join the workforce.
• We need to lower class sizes.
• Universal health care for school employees.
• All-day kindergarten should be offered in all school districts.
• Preschool should be fully funded.
• There should be funding available for after-school activities.

How can we all take part?

• The community should feel tied to the schools. There should be a community connection to the schools.
• The public needs to hear clear, accurate information about schools.
• Community partnerships. Schools and businesses should be working together to better the schools in their community.
• Supporting candidates who support education.