$2.5 million promised for foundation to aid kids

04/27/2005

Star Tribune
April 27, 2005


Business leaders and the McKnight Foundation urged the Legislature to create a Minnesota Early Learning Foundation and pledged to contribute $2.5 million if it is approved.

The foundation would identify the most cost-effective way to bring early-childhood education to about 10,000 disadvantaged children and to prepare them for kindergarten. It would look at existing programs in Minnesota, as well as models used in other states.

“Making sure that Minnesota’s children are getting the start they deserve needs to be a priority for all of us,” said Warren Staley, CEO of Cargill, at a news conference Tuesday at the State Capitol. “Ultimately, our children’s success in school affects the entire community.”

Cargill, along with the Greater Twin Cities United Way and McKnight, announced financial backing for the plan. It is also backed by a coalition of more than 200 business leaders.

Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson, DFL-Willmar, predicted that the foundation would be approved by legislators. The bill creating it is sponsored by Sen. John Hottinger, DFL-St. Peter, and Rep. Barb Sykora, R-Excelsior. The Senate budget plan earmarks $2.5 million for the foundation; the House plan calls for $1.5 million.