An open-enrollment plan for public school students is making its way through the Missouri Senate after passing in the House earlier this year. Sponsored by Rep. Brad Pollitt, the bill would allow students to enroll in school districts outside of where they reside, part of Gov. Mike Kehoe’s school-choice agenda. Proponents believe this plan will provide parents with more educational options for their children, while opponents argue it doesn’t address the underlying issue of school underfunding in the state.
Under the proposed legislation, students from kindergarten through grade 12 could transfer to nonresident districts, with districts having the option to decline participation and limit the number of students who can leave. Special education students would have the opportunity to transfer as well, with costs of services being recouped from the state through the parent public school choice fund.
The bill has faced mixed reviews in the Legislature over the years and has previously failed in the Senate. The Senate Education Committee held a hearing on the proposal, which includes the creation of an online resource for the transfer program and restrictions on students with multiple suspensions. The legislation also excludes St. Louis Public Schools due to a court-ordered desegregation plan.
The Senate will need to approve the bill by May 16 for it to move to Gov. Kehoe’s desk for consideration. This legislation, known as House Bill 711, is part of ongoing discussions about school choice and education funding in Missouri.
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