Minn. Classes Resume With Tips From Schools Chief

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Tens of thousands of Minnesota children are going back to school this week and state Education Commissioner Brenda Cassellius has a few tips for making it a successful year.

She's encouraging students to get connected to their school through both their regular work and extracurricular activities.

She also wants parents to keep talking to their children, particularly over the dinner table. She recommends getting the conversation started by asking, "What was the high and what was the low for your day?"

While some school districts have already started, including Minneapolis and a group of districts in southwestern Minnesota, most Minnesota districts start after Labor Day.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)