schools

The bill requires school districts to develop a written policy on cellphones that bans usage during "regularly scheduled instructional activities and mealtimes." That policy must be in place for the 2026-27 school year.

Missouri students would see the words “I AM THE LORD thy God” followed by the Ten Commandments posted in every public and charter school classroom they enter, under a bill sponsored by GOP state Sen. Jamie Burger. Faith leaders testified both in support of and against the proposal.

Voters in the Park Hill School District will see two tax measures on their April 8 ballot. Proposition G would raise the operating tax rate to support teacher salary increases. Proposition O would allow the district to borrow money for building renovations and replacements.

The bond question in North Kansas City's April 8 election would help build new performing arts centers and two high schools and fund renovations at middle schools. The district says the tax rate would stay the same whether or not voters approve the bond.

In mid-Missouri, many rural school districts rely on Title Ⅰ grants for low-income schools, which are currently distributed through the U.S. Department of Education.

The bond plan calls for building new elementary schools, major renovations and reopening Southwest High School as a middle school. Kansas City voters have not passed a bond for KCPS since the 1960s, and the district has been left with more than $600 million worth of repair needs.

The legislation creates an opt-in program where Missouri public schools can choose to accept students who live outside their district. It now goes to the Missouri Senate, where similar bills have died in prior sessions.

The Wichita school district's proposed $450 million bond issue would build several new schools, close others and reduce the district's overall footprint.

Republican state Sen. Rick Brattin has proposed giving families a direct refund for expenses related to educating their children at home or private schools. Public educators raised multiple concerns about the plan.

The legislation requires school districts to develop cellphone use policies, including restricting them during instruction.

Popcorn wasn’t always seen as the ultimate movie snack, but one woman from Kansas City helped change that. Plus: Some Kansas schools are easing up on playground rules in hopes of improving kids’ physical and mental health.

A growing body of research shows that climbing high, running fast and conquering fears can improve children's physical and mental health and help them get along with peers.