The Brainerd Dispatch ran an opinion piece from Representative Ron Kresha.

State policy must recognize that rural schools deserve the same opportunities as larger districts. That means supporting broadband access, promoting flexible learning options, and ensuring fair funding formulas that reflect the true cost of serving rural students. It also means connecting education directly to local career paths through partnerships with area businesses and technical colleges.

When students in rural Minnesota see a future for themselves close to home, communities thrive. Education is the bridge that keeps our small towns strong and our workforce growing. By continuing to invest in rural schools, we invest in the future of Minnesota itself.

Rep Kresha has been active in the world of broadband for many years. He introduced a bill in 2019 to invest $100 million in broadband. Last year, he introduced a bill (HF1971) that would remove barriers for telecom carriers interested in deploying broadband. He is chair of the MN House Education Finance Committee.