Missouri Lawmakers Underfund Public Schools by $190 Million, Prioritizing Vouchers
Missouri's public schools are facing significant underfunding, with the state budget falling short by $190 million according to the state's foundation formula. This deficit is projected to increase to over $270 million for the next fiscal year, as the Missouri State Board of Education did not request the required funding amount. This decision by the Board, made during its September 15 meeting, is unprecedented and further exacerbates the financial challenges faced by public schools, particularly those in urban areas like Kansas City. Despite the underfunding of public education, the state budget allocates $60 million for private school vouchers, an increase of $10 million from the previous year. This prioritization of private school funding over public school needs is a recurring pattern, even as the state invests heavily in other areas such as roads, buildings, and economic development.
