Minnesota lawmakers this year committed to large increases in the per-pupil funding formula and dedicated money for required but underfunded special education and English language learner programming.

The state said the school system owed the money to match the foundation's 10-mill match funding program last year. However, the school system argued that was not true and was based on a system flaw because although they are a small school system, they had higher property values.

After a troubling year filled with high-profile ransomware attacks, education leaders are leveraging opportunities this summer to raise awareness and enhance prevention tactics.

"Many districts throughout the state will be passing deficit budgets, because they are facing the same challenges," said Austin ISD CFO Ed Ramos. "Teachers are leaving the profession. Employees are making the decision whether or not to stay in their districts."