Understanding How Public Schools Are Funded

Accurate information matters, especially when it comes to public education and school finance. Understanding how Minnesota public schools are funded can help communities have informed conversations about students, services, and annual levies.

Cambridge-Isanti Schools serves every student who enters through the doors, regardless of background, income level, or housing circumstances. Minnesota’s constitution affirms the responsibility of public schools to serve all students, and that commitment remains at the center of our mission every day. 

Minnesota school finance is complex and highly regulated. Annual school levies are not adjusted on a project-by-project basis when new homes or apartments are built. A new housing development does not automatically increase the school district’s annual levy or change the school district portion of an individual property tax statement. School levies are established through specific legal processes, including voter-approved levy authority and other levy authority allowed by state law.

Schools are funded through multiple state, federal, and annual funding streams, many of which are tied to student enrollment, student services, and specific educational needs established by law. Annual levy dollars are only one portion of a district’s overall funding structure. Depending on student and program needs, districts may also receive funding connected to areas such as special education, English learner services, transportation, nutrition programs, compensatory education, and other state law required supports.

It is also important to recognize that student needs are not determined by where a student lives or the type of housing their family lives in. Public schools serve students with a wide range of strengths, experiences, and needs across all neighborhoods and income levels.

Cambridge-Isanti Schools remains committed to serving every learner with care, dignity, and high expectations while also being a clear and accurate source of information for our community. Community members can review the district’s most recent audit, approved levy information, and additional financial resources on the District’s Budget & Finance page.

If community members have questions about how public schools are funded, Cambridge-Isanti Schools welcomes the opportunity for open and transparent conversation. Please contact the district at dist-communications@c-ischools.org, and we will gladly set up a time to meet, answer questions, and help clarify misunderstandings.