By Madison Czopek , Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — The state plans to prioritize reading proficiency, safety and mental health in schools and educator recruitment and retention in the upcoming budget year, according to the Commissioner of the Missouri Board of Education, Margie Vandeven.
State and Regional News
Driver examination stations closed for upcoming holidays
The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on the following dates:
Legislation limiting use of seclusion rooms in schools approved by House committee
By Gaby Morera Di Núbila, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — Representatives on the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee voted unanimously Tuesday in favor of legislation that would limit the use of seclusion rooms in school districts.
Lawmakers begin to tackle $35 million debt to county prisons
By Mikayla Easley , Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — A small group of state lawmakers began discussing how the state can pay back $35 million in debt to Missouri counties Tuesday.
The money is owed to counties whose jails have held state prisoners, and some lawmakers fear this could be the last chance to reimburse them.
Bill to allow charter school expansion approved by Senate committee
By Maria Benevento, Missouri News Network
JEFFERSON CITY — A bill that would allow charter schools to expand to dozens of Missouri districts advanced out of a Senate committee Tuesday.
The General Laws committee voted to approve SB 649, sponsored by committee chair Sen. Bill Eigel, immediately following a public hearing that featured commentary from both sides of the issue.