Education funding

The middle of a pandemic is a tough time to ask taxpayers for more money. But Shawnee Mission is dealing with a crisis of teacher morale and aging buildings in need of maintenance.

Charters don’t get as much local revenue as traditional public schools. They also aren’t subject to the same state ratings.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said an improving state economy has allowed him to free up funds he previously withheld due to the effects of the coronavirus.

The Kansas City Council is now looking at possible changes to how tax incentives are decided, including allowing school districts a say in those decisions, but they face an uphill battle at City Hall.

The new leader of Center School District brings years of experience with her including leading another metro district, Kansas' pioneering role in the battle for women's suffrage, and the moral quandaries brought about by an enduring viral pandemic.

The earliest students will return to Kansas City Public Schools for in-person learning is Sept. 22, and only if local pandemic conditions improve. But the the district has already spent millions preparing for their return.

Incumbent Missouri Rep. Ingrid Burnett faces challengers Phyllis Hardwick and Wick Thomas in a district that encompasses most of Kansas City's historic Northeast neighborhood, as well as some of Sugar Creek and Independence.

Balancing the needs of the south Kansas City community and the safety of students is no easy task, especially while budgets are shrinking, enrollment numbers are dropping and COVID-19 cases are on the rise.

Kristiane Bryant is challenging the incumbent district attorney for Wyandotte County in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary election, hurdles await the new superintendent of Hickman Mills schools, and 25 artists collaborate on a new album to support Kansas City tenants in need.

Yaw Obeng comes to south Kansas City with school turnaround experience from Vermont. He also oversaw the construction of new schools in a district in his native Canada.

In Shawnee Mission Schools, for instance, what is currently projected to be a $7 million surplus could end up being at least a $13 million deficit.

The KCUR news staff presents the State of Kansas City series as a look ahead to 2020 on topics of importance to the region. Find the State of Kansas City…