schools

The legislation would require schools to use a working definition of antisemitism that would include comparing Israel’s contemporary policies to those of Nazis. Critics say the measure will discourage debate about Israel and Palestine.

The GOP bill would require schools to ask for legislative approval to participate in a federal free meal program, and make them verify the household income of every student that applies for free lunch. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly opposes the proposal.

Kansas state Sen. Brad Starnes, a Republican from Riley and a former district superintendent, wants K-12 public school students to learn about “communist and socialist regimes and ideologies," and take a civics exam to graduate high school.

Current law in Missouri requires schools to have a program if 3% of its students are identified as "gifted," but it doesn't require screenings.

Bills proposed by Republican legislators in Missouri include posting the 10 Commandments in classrooms, history lessons that frame religion in a positive light and allowing students to leave school for religious education.

After providing more than $100 million in free plays to lure customers, FanDuel and DraftKings, the sports books dominating the state market, paid no taxes.

As a state audit continues, the Hickman Mills School District is approving cuts and restructuring to improve its financial sustainability by the end of the 2027 school year.

Current and former employees of the Kansas City charter school said they’re frustrated with the level of response from the board after they raised serious concerns about leadership instability, high staff turnover, potential financial mismanagement and student safety.

About 60% of the teachers, principals, aides and other staff at KIPP Kansas City have left in the last year, describing a chaotic environment with frequent mishaps. Leaders say they're trying to reimagine the charter and not everyone is on board with the changes.

The Missouri State Board of Education voted to retain provisional accreditation for Hickman Mills School District. It also voted to receive more reporting on lower-performing districts such as Center and Grandview in the Kansas City area.

Missouri lawmakers arrive in Jefferson City on Wednesday for the start of the 2026 legislative session, which runs until mid-May. Gov. Mike Kehoe is pushing to eliminate the state income tax, but a smaller budget will likely force spending cuts.

The bill has support from more than two-thirds of the Kansas Senate, including leaders from both parties.