Minnesota Department of Education

Saint Paul, United States

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) is the state agency responsible for education policy and funding for K-12 schools across Minnesota. It oversees the implementation of state and federal education laws and provides support to school districts, educators, and students to ensure high-quality education and academic success.

CCI Score

67.24

-0.03% April 18

Latest Event

Minnesota DOE Resists Federal DEI Funding Cut Threat

The Minnesota Department of Education, led by education chief Willie Jett, sent a formal letter rejecting the Trump administration’s demand for local school certification on civil rights and DEI practices, arguing that the agency’s actions align with legal standards and resist authoritarian overreach.

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LEADER

Minnesota Department of Education is currently rated as a Leader.

+45 to +100 CCI Score

Companies in this range actively lead the fight against authoritarianism by rejecting oppressive practices and championing democratic values. They implement robust policies, engage in transparent governance, and drive initiatives that set the standard for corporate responsibility.

Latest Events

APR

08

2025

Minnesota DOE Resists Federal DEI Funding Cut Threat
70.00

The Minnesota Department of Education, led by education chief Willie Jett, sent a formal letter rejecting the Trump administration’s demand for local school certification on civil rights and DEI practices, arguing that the agency’s actions align with legal standards and resist authoritarian overreach.
APR

08

2025

Minnesota Department of Education Resists DEI Funding Cuts
79.77

Amid a Trump administration threat to cut education funding by targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, Minnesota state leaders—including those from the Minnesota Department of Education—are pushing back to safeguard DEI programs.
+80

Public and Political Behavior

April 8

The article highlights that state leaders in Minnesota are resisting a Trump administration move to cut education funding on the grounds of DEI programs. This pushback, which likely involves the Minnesota Department of Education, reflects a clear stand against authoritarian policy impositions and aligns with progressive, anti-fascist values.

Democratic-led cities and states push back on threats to cut US school funding over DEI
APR

08

2025

MDE Rejects Trump Administration's DEI Demand
79.77

The Minnesota Department of Education, led by Commissioner Willie Jett, formally rejected a Trump administration request to end DEI initiatives in schools, arguing that the mandate oversteps legal authority and threatens vulnerable students by risking federal funding cuts.
+80

Executive Political Engagement

April 8

Commissioner Willie Jett's public letter rejecting the Trump administration's DEI demand is a clear act of executive political engagement that resists authoritarian overreach. By challenging the federal mandate—arguing it violates the rulemaking process and oversteps Congress's authority—MDE is defending principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which is consistent with an anti-fascist stance.

Minnesota Department of Education rejects Trump admin's DEI demand
MAR

17

2023

Progressive Education Reforms Implementation
57.15

The Minnesota Legislature’s 2023 education bill—signed on March 17, 2023—introduced sweeping reforms such as increased funding for public schools, universal free breakfast and lunch, elimination of active shooter drills, and enhanced teacher labor provisions. These measures aim to promote equity and support marginalized communities.
+75

Public and Political Behavior

April 8

The education reforms, implemented with the oversight of the Minnesota Department of Education, embody a progressive stance that bolsters equity and public welfare. Increasing funding, revising disciplinary drills to reduce harm, and promoting inclusive policies are strong moves against authoritarian and regressive educational practices.

What's in Minnesota's 2023 education bill - Minnesota Reformer
+65

Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility

April 8

The reforms also reflect ethical responsibility through better support for educators, including improved pension provisions and new unemployment insurance for school workers. These measures demonstrate the department's commitment to fair labor practices and responsible management, which are crucial in resisting authoritarian economic models.

What's in Minnesota's 2023 education bill - Minnesota Reformer
NOV

01

2021

MDE Secures Emergency Food Supply Contract Amid Crisis
49.50

Facing a disruption in food supplies due to labor shortages and supply chain chaos, the Minnesota Department of Education arranged an emergency contract with a trucking company to provide USDA commodity foods to school districts. This action was taken after their regular food provider canceled its contract, leaving districts scrambling to feed students.
+70

Public and Political Behavior

April 8

The department's swift move to secure an emergency contract reflects a commitment to public welfare and rapid response in a crisis affecting vulnerable students. This proactive public measure supports community resilience and opposes neglect of essential services.

MN Schools Struggling to Feed Students Amid Supply Chaos, Labor ...