Press Release: State Auditor Blaha Reacts to Continuation of Distance Learning with Empathy, Gratitude, and Hope

Saint Paul, MN - Today, Governor Walz announced that distance learning will continue for the rest of the school year. Auditor Julie Blaha, who is a former math teacher, reacted with empathy, gratitude, and hope. She explains why she plans to vote yes to support the executive order at tomorrow’s Executive Council meeting:

“As a teacher, I can imagine what my colleagues are feeling today. They now know they won’t get those end of the year celebrations, that last chance to say thank you in person, that last good bye before their students run out the door. Every tear they shed for these losses is a testament to the sacrifices they are making to save lives.

“I also can imagine our parents are worried about their children’s learning. They are working hard to support their kids, even as they themselves experience disruption in other parts of their lives.

“To those worried parents, I want them to know this: I’ve seen first-hand students recover learning after health issues, family crises, and natural disasters. Because our students are resilient, their families are dedicated, and our educators have deep expertise, I have faith, and deep pride, that they will weather this challenge.

“Will our students be exactly as proficient as we’d like at adding fractions with different denominators by May 30th? Maybe not, but we know our students are making good progress. And even more important, they are learning lessons that will define their generation. Even our youngest students are learning that they can take action that will improve the common good. Not only do I believe our students will make up any delays caused by our challenges, they will come through this with a deeper understanding of their value and abilities in tough times.”