Gov. Dayton addresses Minn. school heads after aid bump

BROOKLYN PARK, MN (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton is going before an audience of Minnesota school leaders ahead of an academic year in which districts can expect more money from the state.

Dayton’s appearance Tuesday at a school superintendent conference will offer a chance to recap the education funding boost in the new state budget. More than $485 million in new money over the next two years is bound for public schools and early childhood programs.

All schools will see an increase in their per-pupil aid both years. And beginning in the 2014-15 school year, every district that wants to offer all-day kindergarten will get state aid to cover those costs.

Even with the infusion, some districts plan to ask voters this fall for additional aid generated through local property taxes.