As school boards across the Iron Range finalize their 2026-27 budgets by June 30, they are also receiving a shot in the arm from the state.
Tucked into the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation’s new budget was a transfer of $1,921,995 from the Taconite Economic Development Fund (TEDF), which the board approved for school districts in late May.
Funds were distributed based on enrollment, and come as many Iron Range school leaders have faced daunting budget challenges in recent years. The one-time money is not restricted, meaning districts can put it into general fund balances, rather than directing it to a certain line item.
“This is going to provide substantial relief to our schools that are facing unique challenges,” said Sen. Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown). “Just to get this money directly to the schools, very quickly, will make a big difference.”
The 2026-27 budget process has been particularly rough in some districts. Hibbing voted to close one of its elementary schools. Ely joined two other Range area schools in moving to a four-day school week. St. Louis County Schools approved another $1.75 million in cuts after reducing school days last year.
At Rock Ridge, the district considered a four-day week, but ultimately made staffing cuts, relied on retirements and moved some staff into special education roles, among other items. It is set to receive $414,115 from the state, the most among the 10 districts.
Andrea Lintula, business manager for Rock Ridge, told the school board on June 9 that current projections show a $641,000 deficit and a general fund balance of just over $1 million.
District policy seeks to have at least 8% of its total budget, and up to 12%, kept in the unassigned general fund. The target number, she said, was 10%.
Superintendent Dr. Noel Schmidt said the money was not received as of June 9, and encouraged the board to direct it to the general fund.
“Your general fund balance is so low, you’re not anywhere close to the 10%,” he said. “Revisit it in August, see what the numbers are and where we’re at, because you’re going the wrong way on the general fund. But this is still really good news.”
Area schools received another boost from state lawmakers this year through a law that allows districts to collect property taxes from seasonal homes. Minnesota voters will also vote on a constitutional amendment that proposes changes to the state’s Permanent School Fund. If passed, districts across the state could see more money from the fund on an annual basis.
Neither are expected to provide budget-changing relief for districts, but school leaders have said every bit helps, especially as reduced production from idled mines will eventually impact production tax outputs.
Outside of Rock Ridge, the $1.9 million from the IRRR was distributed to Hibbing ($385,797), St. Louis County Schools ($333,388), Greenway ($174,142), Mesabi East ($150,972), Mountian Iron-Buhl ($118,975), Chisholm ($118,240), Nashwauk-Keewatin ($100,403), Ely ($92,679) and the Northland Learning Center ($33,284).
Sen. Rob Farnsworth (R-Hibbing), said lawmakers recognized their schools were “in a pickle” and hoped the agency funding can prevent some of the budget woes of recent years. A special education teacher by trade, he added friends of his have been laid off in recent years.
“I think this sends a signal from the agency that we want to support our schools, and we want our communities to support each other,” Farnsworth said.
Accessing Rock Ridge School Board
Agendas and minutes from the Rock Ridge School Board can be found on the school’s website. Video archives of the meeting are available on the school website and YouTube.
Accessing the IRRR Advisory Board
The advisory board for the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation can be found on its website, complete with agenda, packets and video of the meetings.
