Bill > SB1090

This bill requires new charter schools in Missouri to obtain a certificate of need from the State Board of Education starting August 28, 2026, in order to operate. The certificate of need application must be submitted by the local school district or city/county governing body and demonstrate several key conditions: a proven demand for alternative educational options, sufficient local economies of scale to support the new school without harming existing district operations, and potential benefits such as alleviating economic and racial inequities, improving academic achievement, reducing student-teacher ratios, and addressing family priorities like safety and transportation. The State Board of Education will have 120 days to review each application, either approving it if the information is factual and sound or disapproving it with a written explanation. If an application is initially disapproved, the applicant may reapply after one year. Importantly, the bill does not require certificates of need for existing charter schools, charter contract renewals, sponsorship transfers, or grade level expansions within current charter schools. The legislation aims to carefully manage the growth of charter schools while ensuring they provide meaningful educational alternatives.

Education

https://www.senate.mo.gov/26info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=527