Midwest Newsroom

While some school district leaders report positive immediate outcomes, there is limited research to show how shortening the school week affects student learning and socialization — or how parents tackle child care and work schedules.

Disgraced former Kansas City, Kansas, police detective Roger Golubski was found dead by apparent suicide in his home Monday morning, on the day his long-awaited trial was meant to begin. Soon after, the federal case against him was dismissed. Who will be held accountable now — if anyone?

Police accountability advocates say it’s important to remember that Golubski is not just “one bad apple,” and that his case reveals a law enforcement system that often fails to protect the most vulnerable.

More than two years after his arrest, and after decades of allegedly terrorizing the Black men and women of Kansas City, Kansas, disgraced former detective Roger Golubski is headed to face trial on federal charges this Monday. This episode comes from the KCUR Studios podcast Overlooked.

States had until the end of September to distribute federal rescue funds to school districts to help students struggling with housing get equal access to education. Barring extensions, most states will leave money on the table — including several in the Midwest.

Jail deaths at the City Justice Center in St. Louis are slightly higher than public safety officials previously shared and much higher than online reports show. But deaths at the CJC so far this year are the lowest they’ve been since 2021.

Some Kansas lawmakers say police are not doing enough to address crime stemming from homelessness — but advocates say making more arrests will actually make the problem worse. Plus: Rural Midwest school districts don't have enough funding to fulfill their promises to educate homeless students.

The Midwest Newsroom analyzed the funders behind high-profile proposed ballot measures and the amount they’re spending. Abortion and sports betting campaigns are the leading targets for out-of-state money.

A survey of registered voters in four states showed a disconnect between policy rhetoric from lawmakers and candidates and what their constituents believe about a range of issues. We asked experts for an explanation.

More than 4,800 students are considered homeless in Nebraska, and school districts can do only so much to help. Many rely on partnerships with local organizations to support student needs outside of school.

Many unhoused students in Missouri and Kansas aren't getting the school support they need — in large part because the districts aren't counting them. Plus: Farmers expect less income this year, which is likely to send ripples through the larger economy.

The Midwest Newsroom partnered with Emerson College Polling to ask registered voters in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska a wide range of questions ahead of the general election.