As part of its focus on having highly qualified and diverse teachers in the district, Fridley Public Schools recently submitted for and was awarded a “Grow Your Own” grant from the Minnesota Department of Education to assist adults in pursuing a professional teaching license. The grant funds of $573,804 will be available beginning July 2024 and used during the next three years..

Most of the grant funds will be used for scholarships and stipends for people of color including indigenous people to pursue and obtain their first professional teaching license in Minnesota. One of the primary purposes of the grant funds is to lessen the financial burden of getting a teaching license. Paraprofessionals and other adults employed by the district as well community members who are of color are eligible to participate in the Grow Your Own program. More information will be shared with staff and the community in the coming weeks.