school funding

Renovations are underway at some Kansas City schools following last year's historic bond passage. School leaders are ready to welcome students back to new flooring, colorful paint and brighter lights in their classrooms.

Jackson County is voting for its new county executive this year. All the candidates put property taxes as their top priority. But go beyond that, and the differences creep in.

A group of Kansas City parents has launched a campaign ahead of the Aug. 4 vote on a constitutional amendment to phase out Missouri’s income tax out of concerns that it will cut state funding for schools.

A parent-led coalition turning Missouri's upcoming income-tax repeal measure into a public education fight, warning that state aid is already falling short.

School leaders in the Kansas City area are grappling with how to balance their budgets and continue serving students as they face declining enrollment, state funding shortfalls and property tax caps.

For the first time since 2017, the Missouri legislature's annual appropriation for public education will stay the same as the previous year, instead of increasing. The budget could hurt schools' ability to improve teacher recruitment and retention.

Included in the budget is $4.2 billion for the K-12 public school foundation formula, more than $376 million in school transportation dollars and $60 million for the state's private school voucher program.

A directory of MOScholars students, funding amounts and schools were made publicly accessible by the Missouri Treasurer's office for nearly a year. Democrats want enrollments paused and lawmakers to investigate, while Republicans say the state should fix the breach without disrupting the program.

The judge ruled Missouri lawmakers could directly appropriate funds to the MOScholars program because state law does not “expressly prohibit” it. The Missouri National Education Association plans to appeal to the state Supreme Court.

Hickman Mills, Independence and other school districts got the green light from voters to improve school buildings and pay off debt in the April 7 municipal election. Some passed measures that will let them pay teachers and staff more.

The Hickman Mills School District is trying to help fill its budget shortfall by asking voters to approve a $20 general obligation bond, and allow it to shift 30 cents of the district’s debt service levy into the operating levy. Voters will decide both questions in the April 7 election.

Organizers are raising concerns that Missouri lawmakers' plan to eliminate the state's income tax will raise costs for lower-income residents and lessen state funding for schools, roads and senior services.