Missouri Board Rejects Push for Full School Funding Increase

September 15, 2026 - 23:03

The Missouri State Board of Education declined Tuesday to seek the roughly $300 million increase needed to fully fund the state's public school funding formula.

The decision means the board will not ask lawmakers for the full amount required to meet the foundation formula, which determines how much state money each district receives. Education officials had discussed the possibility of requesting the additional funds, but members ultimately chose not to pursue the larger figure.

The formula has not been fully funded in years, leaving many districts to rely on local property taxes and federal money to cover gaps. Administrators across the state have warned that rising costs for transportation, insurance, and staff salaries are squeezing budgets further.

Board members cited uncertainty about state revenue and the upcoming legislative session as reasons for holding back the request. Some expressed concern that asking for the full amount could face resistance in the Capitol, where lawmakers must balance competing demands for roads, health care, and tax relief.

Advocacy groups for schools criticized the move, saying districts need predictable funding to plan hiring and programs. The board is expected to submit a smaller request when it finalizes its budget proposal later this year.