Mara Klecker
Reporter
Minneapolis K-12 schoolsA native South Dakotan and a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's journalism college, Klecker has always called the Midwest home. She's worked on journalism projects in Ecuador, Nicaragua and Nepal. In her free time, she can be found reading, hiking or planning her next international trip.
Latest from Mara Klecker
News & Politics
Which Minnesota schools have the most lead in their drinking water? The state will soon find out.
A new state requirement calls on schools to test all their faucets within five years and fix any lead levels above what is allowed in bottled water.
September 16, 2024
Investigations
Most Minnesota charter schools are failing to make good on their promises
Minnesota created charter schools to be more independent than their public school counterparts, allowing them to innovate and better help struggling students. But the lack of oversight often leads to financial mismanagement and fewer resources when things go wrong.
September 14, 2024
Twin Cities
Where are the kids? Research shows numbers are down in Hennepin and Ramsey counties.
The decline in kids under age 5 mirrors larger population trends and has long-term implications for everything from schools to kid-friendly amenities.
September 14, 2024
Investigations
How Rhode Island’s charter schools succeeded where Minnesota’s failed
Rhode Island leads the nation in charter school performance. Advocates say adopting some of Rhode Island’s methods might help Minnesota’s struggling charter school system.
September 13, 2024
Investigations
When Minnesota charter schools fail, vulnerable students pay the price
Hundreds of Minnesota students are caught up each year in the often sudden shuttering of charter schools. School leaders say the closings create a cycle that sets more schools and students up for failure.
September 13, 2024
Twin Cities Suburbs
Suburban school districts say busing is off to a smooth start. Except in two districts.
Hopkins and Stillwater schools are trying to solve transportation issues caused by shifts to new schedules and routing systems.
September 8, 2024
Twin Cities
Cellphone bans and a focus on attendance: What’s in store for Minnesota students this year
Tuesday was the first day of school for many students across the state as class work continues on reading and math instruction amid stagnant test scores. There will also be expanded cultural curriculum offerings.
September 3, 2024
Twin Cities Suburbs
Minnesota schools are starting a new year, but will the students show up for class?
Attendance dropped during the pandemic and a concerning percentage of students still miss too many days of school. Districts are trying to find out why, and how to help.
August 31, 2024
Investigations
When Minnesota charter schools fail, vulnerable students pay the price
Hundreds of Minnesota students are caught up each year in the often sudden shuttering of charter schools. School leaders say the closings create a cycle that sets more schools and students up for failure.
September 13, 2024
Twin Cities Suburbs
Suburban school districts say busing is off to a smooth start. Except in two districts.
Hopkins and Stillwater schools are trying to solve transportation issues caused by shifts to new schedules and routing systems.
September 8, 2024
Twin Cities
Cellphone bans and a focus on attendance: What’s in store for Minnesota students this year
Tuesday was the first day of school for many students across the state as class work continues on reading and math instruction amid stagnant test scores. There will also be expanded cultural curriculum offerings.
September 3, 2024
Twin Cities Suburbs
Minnesota schools are starting a new year, but will the students show up for class?
Attendance dropped during the pandemic and a concerning percentage of students still miss too many days of school. Districts are trying to find out why, and how to help.
August 31, 2024