Stories From the Road: DFL-endorsed Kelliher Talks K-12 Education in Mankato
MANKATO, MN – DFL-endorsed candidate for Governor Margaret Anderson Kelliher met with parents and teachers today in Mankato to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Minnesota students. Kelliher is a working mom with two kids in public schools.
“A strong education is the foundation of a strong economy,” said Kelliher. “Minnesota’s educated workforce has always been our state’s best competitive advantage.”
But Kelliher warns that without bold leadership, Minnesota’s nation-leading schools could slip into mediocrity.
“As a mom I know the challenges Minnesota students are facing,” said Kelliher. “Our schools face limited resources and growing class sizes. Minnesota’s achievement gap is the second-worst in the nation, and only half of our students come to Kindergarten ready to learn. In Minnesota we must and can do better.
“That’s why as Governor I will fight to give every student the world-class education they deserve – and make certain every teacher has the time and resources they need to help our students achieve.”
Kelliher’s high school English teacher Jane Schostag participated in today’s discussion. Schostag has been a public school teacher for more than 30 years. Kelliher credits Schostag for inspiring her to work harder and do better in school.
“Most Minnesotans can name a teacher who changed their life,” said Kelliher. “A teacher who stayed late after school, or gave encouragement – a teacher who went the extra mile to help you succeed. For me, Jane Schostag was one of those teachers.
“Every Minnesota student deserves a teacher like Mrs. Schostag,” said Kelliher. “That’s why as Governor I will fight to put a great teacher in every classroom.”
Kelliher cites a Bush Foundation study that shows over the next 10 years, 25,000 of Minnesota's 70,000 public school teachers will retire. As Governor Kelliher would ensure high-quality teacher training at state colleges and universities, as well as teacher mentorship programs to ensure Minnesota attracts and retains the best teachers in our schools.
“The teacher deficit we’re looking at over the next decade is something we need to start addressing immediately,” said Kelliher. “As Governor, I will make it happen – because the key to success for every student is a great teacher in every classroom.”