Minneapolis, MN – Ben Lattimore, a 31‑year‑old substitute teacher currently working in Minneapolis Public Schools, announced his candidacy for the District 1 school board seat. Lattimore, who grew up in the Audubon Park neighborhood and previously taught at Totino‑Grace High School, White Bear Lake Area Schools, and Stillwater Area Public Schools, says his blend of business experience and classroom insight gives him a balanced perspective on the district’s financial and educational challenges.

Why Lattimore Is Running

“I just want to have a positive impact on kids,” Lattimore told the Sahan Journal. He explained that a series of news reports highlighting a projected $50 million deficit – later revised to $40 million – sparked his decision to seek a board seat. He cited concerns about mishandled healthcare accounts, IRS fines, and unreimbursed special‑education funds as evidence that the district needs stronger fiscal oversight.

Focus on Academic Outcomes

Lattimore argues that the district’s enrollment has slipped by several thousand students over the past decade, and that improving math and reading scores to at least the state average is essential to reversing that trend. He believes reducing the emphasis on one‑to‑one device assignments – such as Chromebooks and iPads – will help raise proficiency. “The overwhelming majority of scientific research shows that these devices are hurting learning,” he said, noting that Scandinavian nations have moved away from pervasive classroom tech.

Proposed Tech Policy Changes

His plan calls for a phased approach: no screen time for kindergarten through second grade, and shared laptop carts or designated computer‑lab periods for middle and high school students instead of individual device assignments. Lattimore points to Los Angeles Public Schools, which have adopted screen‑time requirements, as a model for responsible technology use.

Preserving Successful Programs

While advocating for tech reform, Lattimore also supports the district’s Spanish immersion program, describing it as a “feather in the hat” that attracts Hispanic families and differentiates Minneapolis schools from charter alternatives. He cautions that eliminating such programs could drive families to charter schools that better reflect their cultural values.

Accountability and Data‑Driven Decisions

Lattimore expressed disappointment with the district’s recent school‑closure plan, criticizing its lack of empirical data and clear goals. He urged board members to set specific targets for enrollment, cost savings, and test‑score improvements, and to hold themselves accountable if those targets are not met.

Broader Governance Reforms

Beyond tech and curriculum, Lattimore calls for reforms in state‑legislature advocacy, district finance, and accounting governance. He believes stronger oversight at these levels will support the district’s long‑term financial health and educational mission.

Looking Ahead

As the school board race heats up, Lattimore’s platform centers on practical, evidence‑based solutions that aim to boost academic performance, restore fiscal responsibility, and preserve programs that reflect the community’s cultural diversity. Voters in District 1 will decide whether his blend of business acumen and classroom experience resonates with their hopes for Minneapolis schools.

Original reporting: Sahan Journal — read the source article.