Education (Higher Education)

HB 2123 creates a merit-based scholarship program for Missouri students attending in-state colleges. It provides up to $3,000 annually for students in the top 3% of Missouri ACT/SAT test-takers and up to $1,000 for those in the top 4-5%, covering tuition at Missouri public or private institutions. Eligibility requires Missouri residency, high school graduation, and a qualifying test score, with special provisions for military service, medical leave, or nonprofit work. The program is administered by the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education, starting before the 2027-28 academic year.

HB 2539 requires all Missouri public school districts, schools, and charter schools to publish standardized annual report cards online by specific deadlines, detailing student performance, finances, and staff data to meet federal requirements. It establishes a new A-F rating system based on student achievement (40% for K-8, 25% for high schools), academic growth metrics, and for high schools, a "Success Ready Graduate" measure tracking college credits, career credentials, or advanced exams. Top-performing schools in the top 5% for performance or growth receive performance-based funding ($100/student) starting after the 2026-27 assessments, with funds used for staff bonuses. The bill directly affects schools, parents, and taxpayers through transparent accountability measures and ties funding to specific, measurable outcomes.