Public Education

Over 100 educators heard from Gov. Mike Parson and state lawmakers at the Capitol on Tuesday.

The legislation makes several changes regarding K-12 education, including the creation of a portal that contains every school district’s curriculum and other information. It also would prohibit the teaching of critical race theory and other diversity-related concepts.

About 1 in 3 female students surveyed at a St. Louis County public high school reported they had missed school because they couldn’t afford to buy tampons or pads, often at least one day per month.

Former educators said they have never encountered the teaching of critical race theory in their classes.

“For too long, we have asked our school staff to provide exceptional care supporting kids in school without giving them the grace and flexibility to care for themselves and their families,” the governor said.

After an active first few months of the 2021 legislative session, lawmakers are returning Monday to Jefferson City after a weeklong spring break with several priorities on the agenda of the Republican supermajority.

The legislation creates what is called the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Account and falls in line with the Republican effort of so-called school choice.

Educators at both public and private schools in St. Louis County explain how they are making in-person learning work in difficult circumstances.

St. Louis Public Radio reporter Ryan Delaney is in Germany right now, on assignment. He tells "St. Louis on the Air" what he’s learning — and some things Missouri schools might learn from the Germans about how to handle the reopening of schools during this pandemic.

Crestwood Elementary School physical education teacher Darrion Cockrell hasn’t just overhauled his school’s fitness program. His creative virtual education videos have also caught the attention of influencers such as Chance the Rapper and Ellen DeGeneres. Now, Cockrell has been awarded the distinction of Missouri Teacher of the Year.