...be encouraging kids, not discouraging them.'' But Minneapolis' policy ends this year. School board chairwoman Judy Farmer said the policy was enacted because the district had for many years allowed students who were one or two credits shy...

...pitch the tent larger," she said. "Our focus must be on helping kids -- not finding ways to exclude." Board chair Judy Farmer said the Scouts have a positive impact on the lives of young men, but the organization needs to change. "Our problem...

...districts $100 per student to hike pay for better performing teachers to recognize quality rather than length of service. Judy Farmer, a Minneapolis school board member, seemed receptive. "This is an avenue, there may be others," she said...