Bill > SB364

This bill modifies state aid provisions for schools in Missouri, introducing a new funding mechanism that provides additional state aid to school districts and charter schools. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will distribute an extra one percent of a district's annual state aid entitlement in fiscal years 2026 and 2027, increasing to two percent in fiscal year 2028 and beyond, but only for districts that have operated school terms of 169 days or more in the preceding year. The bill includes a caveat that allows districts to still qualify for these additional funds if they planned a 169-day school term but were unable to meet that requirement due to inclement weather or authorized reductions in school hours. Crucially, the bill stipulates that these additional funds must be used exclusively to increase teacher salaries, with a penalty of withholding future state aid payments for districts that do not comply with this requirement. The provision applies to both traditional public school districts and charter schools, aiming to provide targeted financial support to schools that maintain longer academic years and prioritize teacher compensation.

Education

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=342