The head of the Minnesota Catholic Conference wrote to Governor Tim Walz, emphasizing the urgent need for security improvements in Catholic and other nonpublic schools, stating they were "under attack." This plea went unheeded. Two years later, a gunman opened fire at a Minneapolis Catholic school during Mass, resulting in two deaths and 17 injuries.
The letter, sent in April 2023, was authored by Minnesota Catholic Conference Executive Director Jason Adkins and Tim Benz. It cited recent attacks and expressed concern for the 72,000 students in nonpublic schools, excluded from state safety programs. The leaders requested $50 million in funding for all schools.
A spokesperson confirmed the letter's authenticity and that the requests were denied. The Building and Cyber Security Grant Program and the Safe Schools Program exclude nonpublic schools. Governor Walz's office stated private schools receive some state funding and are eligible for safety resources.
On Tuesday, Robin Westman opened fire at a Mass at the Annunciation Catholic Church, killing two and injuring 17. The FBI reported the shooter left anti-religious and antisemitic references. The Minnesota legislature is considering a school safety bill that would not provide additional security funding to nonpublic schools.
5 Comments
Matzomaster
Religious schools should figure out their own safety issues instead of demanding taxpayer money.
Mariposa
It’s unacceptable to ask for $50 million for nonpublic schools while public schools struggle without adequate funding.
Muchacha
Funding needs to be allocated where it can serve the largest number of students, not to private sectarian schools.
Raphael
Why should public funds be used to improve security at private schools? They should rely on their own resources!
Donatello
This letter and the request for funds are an overreach. We need to prioritize public education!