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Over 40 Minnesota Districts Start Early Under Temporary Law

9/9/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Minnesota school districts began classes in mid-August 2026 under a temporary law.
The law permits starts on or after September 1 for 2026-27 and 2027-28.
Over 40 districts opened early, citing mental-health benefits and extra instruction days.
Stillwater, facing a $500,000-$600,000 deficit, revived combination classes to cut costs.
Rep. Cheryl Youakim (DFL-Hopkins) said the late start reduces academic days and pushes the school year into June.

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Story summary

Minnesota school districts began classes in mid-August 2026 under a temporary law.
The law permits starts on or after September 1 for 2026-27 and 2027-28.
Over 40 districts opened early, citing mental-health benefits and extra instruction days.
Stillwater, facing a $500,000-$600,000 deficit, revived combination classes to cut costs.
Rep. Cheryl Youakim (DFL-Hopkins) said the late start reduces academic days and pushes the school year into June.