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Minneapolis Schools Face Backlash Over Counseling Cuts

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, March 28th 2026 at 19:55 GMT by KSTP-TV
      Locale: UNITED STATES

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - March 28, 2026 - Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) is facing growing opposition to a proposed 20% reduction in its counseling staff, a measure being considered to address a significant $37 million budget shortfall. The proposal, revealed earlier this week, has ignited a firestorm of protest from students, parents, teachers, and community advocates who argue that cutting crucial mental health and academic support services is a shortsighted solution, particularly in the wake of ongoing pandemic-related challenges.

The district maintains that these cuts, while undesirable, are necessary to balance the budget. However, critics contend that eliminating key support personnel will exacerbate existing issues and negatively impact student wellbeing, academic performance, and overall school climate. The proposed cuts would drastically increase the student-to-counselor ratio, placing an unsustainable burden on remaining staff and limiting the access students have to vital resources.

Sofia DeLeon, a Minneapolis student actively involved in organizing opposition to the cuts, stated, "School counselors are essential, especially right now. We're still dealing with the aftermath of the pandemic - increased anxiety, depression, learning loss - and counselors are often the first point of contact for students who are struggling. Reducing their numbers feels like abandoning us."

Parent Sarah Larson echoed this sentiment, saying, "We need more counselors, not fewer, to help our students navigate these difficult times. They're dealing with so much, both academically and emotionally. The counselors are the people they trust, the people they rely on. To take that away is simply unacceptable." Larson is part of a rapidly growing coalition of parents who are organizing protests, contacting school board members, and circulating petitions to halt the proposed cuts.

Teachers are also voicing their concerns. Ryan Johnson, a veteran educator at North High School, reports a noticeable increase in behavioral issues in the classroom. "We are seeing more students struggling with emotional regulation and exhibiting disruptive behaviors," Johnson explained. "Our counselors are doing incredible work to support these students, providing individual and group counseling, and collaborating with teachers to create supportive learning environments. But they're already stretched thin. To cut their numbers will cripple our ability to address these issues effectively."

The debate surrounding the proposed cuts highlights a broader trend in public education: the increasing demand for mental health services coupled with dwindling resources. The pandemic has undeniably amplified the need for student support, as many children and adolescents experienced trauma, isolation, and disruptions to their education. Experts warn that cutting mental health services at this critical juncture could have long-lasting consequences.

Beyond immediate mental health concerns, reducing the number of counselors could also impact academic achievement. Counselors play a vital role in college and career counseling, helping students navigate the application process, explore post-secondary options, and develop essential life skills. A reduced counseling staff could leave students feeling unprepared for the future.

MPS officials have indicated they are exploring alternative solutions to the budget shortfall, including potential cuts to administrative costs and non-essential programs. However, these proposals have yet to gain traction with the community. Many advocates argue that the district should prioritize student wellbeing and explore revenue-generating opportunities, such as increased fundraising or advocating for increased state funding. They point to successful models in other districts that have implemented comprehensive mental health programs without sacrificing academic standards.

The next school board meeting, scheduled for April 5th, is expected to be heavily attended by concerned citizens. Organizers are planning a rally outside the meeting to raise awareness and demonstrate the widespread opposition to the proposed cuts. The future of counseling services in Minneapolis Public Schools hangs in the balance, and the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the district prioritizes fiscal responsibility over the wellbeing of its students.