We can make a difference
The Association of Metropolitan School Districts (AMSD) is committed to making a positive difference for all students. Representing the majority of school districts in the metro area for the past 30 years, AMSD provides comprehensive services to assist districts in addressing the full array of issues facing public education today.
From funding, to curriculum and policy issues, AMSD is a highly respected source of information for member districts, legislators, the media and parent advocacy groups alike.
AMSD members, comprised of the superintendent and one school board member from each district, take an active role in setting and carrying out the organization's agenda. For example, members recently updated AMSD's five-year strategic plan highlighting the following beliefs:
- Student success is critical to Minnesota's future;
- Public education must be the highest priority of state government;
- State education policy must support the unique needs of metropolitan districts and their learners;
- Districts are in the best position to make local education decisions; and
- Speaking with a unified voice enhances our impact on state education policy.
AMSD provides leadership
AMSD is a strong voice for public education both at the Legislature and in the media, with a proactive agenda and a commitment to action. Our primary task is to lobby at the state level for the needs of metropolitan school districts. However, AMSD's Board believes that our lobbying efforts are most effective when the organization plays a role in shaping the broader public debate on K-12 issues and advocates for policies that benefit the State as a whole.
AMSD also provides one-on-one assistance to districts conducting referendum campaigns and sponsors an annual, major policy conference to educate elected officials about an important educational topic.
AMSD provides access
AMSD staff and members maintain ongoing contact with important state policymakers, both during the legislative session and throughout the rest of the year.
AMSD provides information
AMSD provides members with relevant, concise, and timely information on key issues and the progress of the legislative session, giving local school officials the tools they need to communicate with legislators and within their communities. AMSD employs a senior policy advocate to assure that information is accurate and effectively presented.
Join Us!
AMSD currently serves thirty-five K-12 metropolitan school districts, three intermediate school districts, three integration school districts, and two associate members. Because of our broad-based membership, AMSD is in a unique position to identify the needs of metropolitan school districts and seek meaningful policy changes to help districts meet those needs. Contact us to discuss membership of your district in AMSD.
Association of Metropolitan School Districts
Scott Croonquist, Executive Director
1667 Snelling Avenue N
St. Paul, Minnesota 55108
651-999-7325, Voice
651-999-7328, Fax
scroonquist@amsd.org
