MN SF2943

Establishes a community-centered schools pilot project in Independent School District No. 286 (Brooklyn Center) and Independent School District No. 624 (White Bear Lake) for fiscal years 2011 through 2013 to foster partnerships between schools and community organizations.

Requires each pilot project site to employ a project manager to develop partnerships with community members and organizations to assist in student learning.

Allows participating schools to begin the school year before Labor Day but not before August 1, notwithstanding existing state law.

Appropriates $500,000 for fiscal year 2011, with $100,000 each to Brooklyn Center and White Bear Lake for project manager costs and educational content, plus $150,000 each for designing and remodeling spaces to establish early education classrooms.

Requires participating schools to report findings to the Department of Education by January 15, 2015, documenting improvements in student attendance, achievement, access to learning opportunities, and family participation.