Minnesota has one of the highest achievements gaps in the country, especially when it comes to race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

The Minneapolis Federal Reserve released a study in October 2019 on how such issues affect students across the state.

Suggestions abound on how to reduce the chasm, and all House members had an opportunity to delve more in depth into the topic at a daylong symposium Friday.

“Our goal is to establish a common base of knowledge and insight across the Minnesota House on the persistent racial gaps in education in Minnesota and on possible solutions,” said Rep. Jim Davnie (DFL-Mpls), chair of the House Education Finance Division. “… Minnesota likes to think of ourselves as exceptional. On this issue we are — just not in a good way.”

The event featured speakers addressing myriad issues including: what is now being done in Minnesota; approaches taken in other states to address achievement gaps; costs; disciplinary issues; family and community relationships; early childhood; and an overview of a proposed constitutional amendment to give every child in Minnesota an equal right to a quality education.

Davnie said a summary of the day’s discussion is to be created.

“Closing the education opportunity gap and eliminating racial disparities is key to our state’s future success,” House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) said in a statement. “We’re going to continue this conversation with Minnesotans as we work to craft comprehensive solutions to address this issue that is holding back our children.”

A bill proposing the amendment, HF3658, awaits action by the House Education Policy Committee. Rep. Rena Moran (DFL-St. Paul) is the sponsor. Sen. Jeff Howe (R-Rockville) sponsors the companion, SF3977, which awaits action by the Senate E-12 Finance and Policy Committee.

While some members were learning more about the issues, a group of Republicans held a news conference to urge action.

“For decades, we’ve collected data that reveals the unacceptable and immoral gaps in academic performance between white students and students of color,” said Rep. Sondra Erickson (R-Princeton) in a statement. “This is an urgent and serious problem that demands the legislature’s full and immediate attention. House Republicans have introduced several bills that will help tackle this problem and we stand ready and willing to work with DFLers to ensure our education system works for all students. The time for talk is over, we need to take action.”