Educators believe the approach will have far-reaching benefits for every student. If the district can get the education system to work for Black male students, said Superintendent Brent Jones, it will work for everyone.

Making SEL a priority and giving our staff the right resources helped our students beat the odds academically and improved student well-being. SEL didn't just benefit students, though—it really strengthened our entire school culture.

While declines were evident statewide, two of Minnesota's largest public school districts saw scores plummet the furthest last year.

"I'm talking to legislators, and what they're saying is that the state intends to take over the district, replacing the entire board and replacing the superintendent," Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said at a City Council meeting Wednesday morning. "I find that totally alarming."