Dream Act Student Rally

On Wednesday, May 1^st, there is a rally planned at the State Capitol for Minnesotans to support the Dream Act, which is going to the Senate floor for a full vote. Although this not an MPS sponsored event, we know that many students are planning to attend this event and we expect that some MPS students, particularly Latino high school students, may participate. We believe that students’ participation in this event is an opportunity for students to demonstrate leadership and civic engagement.

 

About the Dream Act and MPS students

The Dream Act is a big step forward for our students and families – and it is a big step forward for Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS), too. If passed, this bill would allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at all state colleges and universities. Immigrant students would also be eligible to receive state grants and private scholarships. This proposed policy brings hope to our students, schools and community. Rather than being fearful of deportation, students will be inspired to stay in school, excel in their studies and truly reach their full potential. We anticipate higher student retention and lower dropout rates as the result of the passage of this bill.

 

MPS and Superintendent Johnson are supportive of the Dream Act and we’ve been public and vocal about our support for undocumented students at the legislature and in the community. See Superintendent Johnson’s leader letter.

 

Students must have signed parent permission to excuse the absence

The school district could consider participation in this even an excused absence under Regulation 5100 A, as an “approved family activity.” If students wish to participate, they must come to school with a signed parent/guardian permission slip in order to excuse their student’s absence. If students elect not to come to school in the morning and participate, they need to return the next day with a signed permission from their parent or guardian. Students are expected to make up any school work and assignments that are missed due to an absence.