HB 3311 establishes standards for Missouri school libraries, requiring districts to adopt policies protecting access to library resources and preventing censorship. It defines key terms like "school librarian" and mandates that libraries promote free expression, support academic standards, and prohibit removal of materials for reasons like political views or author background. The bill creates a specific process for reviewing challenges to library materials, including a committee with diverse members, keeping challenged items available during review, and banning removal for "doctrinal or partisan reasons." It also prohibits retaliation against library staff who follow this review process and prevents repeated challenges to the same material within four years. This law directly affects Missouri public school districts, their library programs, and students' access to information.
SB 1642 establishes a program for nonprofit organizations to operate adult high schools in Missouri, requiring the Department of Social Services to authorize up to five schools in specific geographic locations based on county population criteria. Organizations must meet detailed requirements, including providing industry certification, partnering with postsecondary institutions, and addressing barriers like homelessness or criminal history for disadvantaged adults. The bill sets academic standards for diplomas equivalent to traditional high school diplomas (without distinguishing marks), allows flexible pacing and limited online instruction, and mandates partnerships to support workforce development. While a minor provision requires maintaining complaint records for summer camps and day camps, the bill's primary focus is on creating adult education programs, not camp licensing.
HB 3310 establishes minimum requirements for school district calendars in most areas, mandating at least 169 school days (or 142 days for districts using a four-day week) and restricting start dates to no earlier than 14 days before the first Monday in September. It specifically excludes school districts operating charter schools from these rules, as outlined in the bill’s provisions. Violations could result in the state withholding 25% of a district’s state funding for each day of noncompliance. The bill also allows limited exemptions for unusual circumstances but does not apply to districts with year-round schedules or those operating charter schools.
This bill requires all public high schools to administer career readiness assessments, such as the WorkKeys test (which leads to a nationally recognized career certificate), before students graduate. Students who complete WorkKeys are exempt from taking the ACT assessment. School districts may offer additional free assessments using state funds. It also establishes that WorkKeys certificates can count as credit toward technical college degrees.
HB 3540 creates a voluntary mental wellness program called "Journaling for Joy" for school districts and charter schools. Starting in the 2027-28 school year, it allows schools to implement the program for students in third, sixth, and twelfth grades using approved curriculum that includes journaling workbooks, instructor guides, and structured prompts focused on emotional regulation and conflict resolution - without providing therapy or collecting identifiable mental health data. Schools must train teachers using department-approved materials, and the education department will track participation and non-identifiable outcomes like school climate through annual reports. The program expires on August 28, 2033, and requires annual state funding approval for implementation.
HB 3532 requires Missouri's general assembly to develop and provide public schools with educational resources about the state's legislative process. These resources must explain how Missouri's process is shaped by the U.S. Constitution, Missouri Constitution, and federal/state laws. The bill specifies materials may include real-world experiences, publications, place-based learning accommodations, civic engagement opportunities, and digital tools. The bill is in early stages, having been introduced and read for the second time in March 2026.
HB 3483 requires Missouri's legislature to develop educational materials for public schools about how the state's government works. The bill mandates that these resources explain Missouri's legislative process and how it is shaped by the U.S. Constitution, Missouri's Constitution, and federal/state laws. Materials may include real-world experiences, publications, place-based learning activities, civic engagement opportunities, and digital tools. This bill directly affects Missouri public schools and students by requiring new civic education content focused on government structure and processes. The bill is currently in its early stages, having been introduced on February 26, 2026.
HB 3322 improves educational stability for children in foster care by requiring foster care placements to prioritize the child's school attendance area. It ensures children can remain in their school of origin until placement disputes are resolved, and if a "best interest" decision isn't made within 30 days (60 days in summer), the child's current school district enrollment is automatically considered best - provided the previous school is more than 30 miles away (35 miles for special education). The bill also mandates school districts to accept credits from any school, issue diplomas when graduation requirements are met under juvenile court, and prevent grade reductions for absences tied to foster care changes or court activities.
SB 1778 requires public schools to incorporate personal finance education into their curriculum. It directly affects all public school students by mandating that schools teach topics such as budgeting, saving, and debt management. The key provision establishes a general requirement for schools to include this education, though the abstract does not specify exact grade levels or detailed content. This policy change applies to all public school districts and educators responsible for implementing the curriculum.
HB 2723 replaces Missouri's existing charter school regulations with new requirements. It directly affects charter school applicants, sponsors, and school boards by mandating detailed application proposals covering mission statements, financial plans for three years, academic performance standards (including test scores and graduation rates), curriculum, admission policies, and grievance procedures. Key provisions require charter schools to include legally binding performance contracts with sponsors, meet health/safety standards before opening, and outline student discipline and transition plans if closing. The bill focuses on increasing accountability and transparency in charter school operations under Missouri law.
