Dr. Karla Eslinger Commissioner | Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Governor Mike Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) have initiated the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force in Jefferson City. This follows Governor Kehoe’s Executive Order 25-14, which assigns the Task Force to evaluate and propose changes to the state's K-12 school funding model. A final report is expected by December 1, 2026, including up to three alternative recommendations or components of the recommended model, alongside a summary of stakeholder feedback.
Governor Kehoe expressed his appreciation for the members' commitment: “I appreciate the commitment from these individuals to serve on the Task Force and contribute their experience, perspective, and expertise to addressing this critical issue responsibly and at business speed.” He emphasized the need to rethink school funding for beneficial student outcomes statewide.
Commissioner of Education Dr. Karla Eslinger noted that periodic reviews are necessary: “Funding models for public and charter schools must undergo periodic review to ensure they remain sustainable and effective in supporting the best educational outcomes.” She highlighted that Missouri's current Foundation Formula was established in 2005.
The Task Force comprises 16 members chaired by Senator Rusty Black, representing diverse perspectives from urban to rural areas and traditional to nontraditional sectors. It will follow guiding principles focusing on equal access, local flexibility, performance accountability, and long-term sustainability. The recommendations will also support non-traditional public school options like charter schools and virtual education.
Informal working groups with additional subject matter experts will assist the Task Force by providing specialized input. These groups will regularly update the full membership on their findings. Core decision-making responsibilities lie with Task Force members who will vote on recommendations.
The initial meeting provided historical insights into school funding models and Missouri’s Foundation Formula. The next meeting is scheduled for June 23 in Jefferson City, with virtual working group meetings planned from July through December 2025. An additional in-person meeting is set for September for further updates from working groups. In 2026, meetings will focus on reviewing findings and developing recommendations before presenting them statewide in fall regional presentations. Final recommendations are due by December 1, 2026.
For more information or updates about Task Force activities, stakeholders can visit DESE’s webpage dedicated to this initiative or email FundingTaskForce@dese.mo.gov with feedback or inquiries.
Alerts Sign-up