Greetings from Perpich Center for Arts Education!

March has been an active month at the Capitol, with several opportunities to share the work of the Perpich Center for Arts Education and strengthen relationships with legislative partners.

Allegra Smisek, Executive Director

Earlier this month, I presented alongside Finance Director John Toop and Communications Director Betsy Anderson to three legislative committees. These conversations highlighted Perpich’s role as a statewide agency, including the Arts High School, residential program, professional development for educators, and broader statewide initiatives.

Legislators asked thoughtful questions about our funding structure, particularly in comparison to per-pupil models used in school districts. We emphasized an important distinction: Perpich is, and has always been, funded as a state agency. This model reflects our statewide mission, which extends beyond serving enrolled students to supporting educators and school districts across Minnesota.

We also presented our asset preservation priorities, focused on improving front entrance security, increasing accessibility, and updating restrooms in both the Arts High School and dormitory.

A policy question raised during the Senate hearing was whether Perpich could operate under a charter school model. While this reflects interest in long-term sustainability, it also highlights the importance of clearly communicating Perpich’s unique role as a statewide agency serving all Minnesota communities.

Following these hearings, we continued outreach through Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA)/ Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) Day at the Capitol and follow-up meetings with legislators.

I am especially grateful for the leadership of our Board of Director’s Government Relations Committee, whose members have personally connected with more than 50 individual legislators. Their advocacy and partnership are helping strengthen understanding of Perpich’s statewide impact.

With gratitude,

Allegra Smisek
Executive Director | Perpich Center for Arts Education