Dear Pillsbury United Community, 

We understand that recent articles in the Star Tribune regarding the charter school sector have understandably raised questions. We want to assure you that Pillsbury United Communities (PUC) remains a strong and stable charter school authorizer, fully committed to our vital mission. I am writing to you today to provide both some needed clarity and reassurance. 

First, some reassurance. For the record, PUC is not in danger of being terminated as a charter school authorizer. We want to emphasize the steps taken by PUC’s Office of Public Charter Schools (PUC-OPCS) in response to feedback from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). We view this as an opportunity for growth and have been actively implementing requested corrective actions with our enhanced operational capacity. This demonstrates our unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement across all our endeavors. 

Second, some needed clarity. Every high-performing organization puts continuous improvement at the center of how it operates. PUC is no different. While we don’t agree with many of the allegations made in the Star Tribune series, we recognize that any organization that cares about continuous improvement should take this kind of criticism as an opportunity—a chance—to reflect on the work that we are doing in our charter schools and look for ways to further strengthen and improve. This is completely consistent with our mission and values—to help communities thrive, and empower everyone to have personal, social, and economic agency.  

We are proud of the progress within our schools and as a charter authorizer: 

•  PUC-OPCS has embraced MDE’s feedback and is diligently implementing corrective actions.  Our strengthened operational capacity underscores our deep commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring we meet all regulatory requirements and continuously improve our practices. 

• Strong Belief in Our Continued Role as an Authorizer: PUC-OPCS has full confidence in its continued capacity as a Minnesota charter school authorizer. Our recent structural changes have further solidified our ability to effectively fulfill our obligations effectively and provide robust support to our schools. 

• Unwavering Commitment to Our Charter Schools: Addressing identified issues and championing the success of our charter schools remains a top priority for PUC-OPCS. We are steadfast in our commitment and are not considering withdrawing as an authorizer. It is crucial to recognize the significant and positive role that PUC’s charter schools play in providing important educational and economic opportunities within the communities we serve. Our schools are vital pathways for a diverse range of students, including those from various cultural and economic backgrounds, and many who have faced significant challenges within traditional public-school systems.  

For example, the Minnesota Internship Center (MNIC) provides invaluable hands-on learning experiences and career pathways for students seeking alternative educational models. The High School for the Recording Arts (HSRA) nurtures the talents and passions of young artists interested in the music industry, offering a unique and enriching educational environment focused on creative expression and technical skills. These are just two examples of how our charter schools are uniquely positioned to meet the diverse needs of our students. 

We firmly believe in the power of community-driven education and the positive impact our charter schools have on the lives of students and families. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards and ensuring the continued success of our schools as we work together to help communities thrive and empower individual confidence and agency. 

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the mission of Pillsbury United Communities.