Dear Parent or Guardian:
Recent changes to Minnesota law require districts and charter schools to collect more detailed student information on the race and ethnicity categories set by the U.S. Department of Education.
The purpose of collecting the information is to assist schools in providing targeted programs and services to help all students succeed.
As a result of the new law, and starting with the 2019-20 school year, all Minnesota schools will collect information using the attached forms. Information is considered private student data.
Ethnic and Racial Demographic Form: Federal questions are in bold. Families are not required to answer the federal questions for their children. However, if you choose not to answer the federal questions, federal law requires schools to choose for you. This is a last resort-we prefer that parents or guardians complete the form.
State questions are below the federal questions and labeled "Optional." Schools will not fill in this information for you. Refusal to respond will not impact enrollment in the school.
Under the Optional questions, choose "decline to indicate" if you prefer not to use any of the more detailed selections. Choose "Other" if you do not see your specific group represented.
Minnesota Language Survey: Minnesota is home to speakers of more than 100 different languages. The ability to speak and understand multiple languages is valued. In Minnesota, students who are multilingual may qualify for a Multilingual Seal upon further assessment.
Results of the assessment will be used to determine if your student is entitled to English language development instruction. Access to instruction is required by state and federal law. As a parent or guardian, you have the right to decline English Learner instruction at any time.
Please complete the enclosed forms and return them to your school by September 16, 2022.
For more information about the forms, please contact the Minnesota Department of Education or check the MDE website: https://education.mn.gov/MDE/fam/count/MDE074811