Bill > HB1365

This bill modifies Missouri's laws regarding school administrator evaluations and contracts, introducing new provisions for building-level administrators (defined as school officials who supervise or evaluate licensed staff, such as principals and assistant principals). The bill requires school districts to conduct comprehensive, performance-based evaluations using research-based tools, with specific guidelines for evaluation frequency, documentation, and standards. It mandates that districts provide written notification of contract renewal or nonrenewal by March 1st, and establishes that failure to do so automatically results in contract renewal for another year. For administrators with at least five years of experience, contracts can only be nonrenewed "for cause," which includes unsatisfactory performance, policy violations, or conduct detrimental to the school district. The bill also provides procedural protections for administrators facing nonrenewal or dismissal, including the right to request a written explanation, seek a closed-session hearing before the school board, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and be represented by counsel. Additionally, administrators are entitled to due process if dismissed during an active contract, including written notice of dismissal reasons and the opportunity to present their case. These provisions aim to create more transparent and fair evaluation and contract renewal processes for school administrators.

Education, Government Affairs

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1365&year=2025&code=R