Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe Outlines Bold Education Proposals in 2025 State of the State Address

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 By Mike Scott 

NEMOnews Media Group 

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe unveiled a sweeping set of education proposals in his 2025 State of the State address, emphasizing record investments in K-12 education, increased school choice, and a call for modernization of the state’s school funding formula. Kehoe’s vision prioritizes strengthening public schools while expanding educational options for families and implementing greater accountability for school performance. 

Record-High K-12 Education Funding 

At the center of Kehoe’s education plan is an unprecedented $200 million increase in the state’s Foundation Formula, the largest single-year boost since the funding system was established in 2005. The additional funding brings the state’s total K-12 public school budget to $4 billion, underscoring his administration’s commitment to supporting Missouri’s education system. 

Recognizing the financial strain on school districts, Kehoe also proposed $376.6 million to fully reimburse transportation costs for Missouri’s public schools. “Missouri’s students deserve safe, reliable transportation to and from school, and we are taking action to ensure our districts have the resources to provide it,” Kehoe said. 

In an effort to support teachers, Kehoe’s budget includes $33.4 million to raise baseline teacher salaries, ensuring all educators meet the statutory minimum established in the recently passed Senate Bill 727. The proposal also allocates $30 million for small school grants, a crucial investment aimed at sustaining Missouri’s rural school districts. 

Expanding School Choice and Charter School Support 

Kehoe’s address made it clear that his administration is committed to expanding school choice options for Missouri families. He proposed $50 million in state funding to support the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which was previously funded exclusively through tax credits. “Parents deserve the freedom to choose the best educational path for their children,” Kehoe said. “By expanding the ESA program, we are ensuring that more Missouri families have access to quality education options.” 

Charter schools also stand to benefit under Kehoe’s budget, which includes $7 million in capital improvement funds, with $5 million dedicated to a state revolving loan fund. His administration has emphasized the importance of ensuring charter schools have adequate facilities and resources to serve their students effectively. 

Overhauling Missouri’s Education Funding Formula 

While celebrating record-high education investments, Kehoe also acknowledged that the state’s current funding model is outdated and unsustainable. He noted that despite a $2 billion increase in education funding over the years, student enrollment has declined by 30,000. “We must modernize our education funding system to better serve students and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively,” he stated. 

To address this issue, Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-14, establishing the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force. The task force, which includes educators, legislators, and industry leaders, will review and recommend updates to the state’s K-12 funding model. The goal is to create a sustainable, equitable, and performance-based funding system. The group is expected to submit its final report by December 1, 2026. 

“We cannot continue using a formula that does not reflect the realities of today’s education landscape,” Kehoe said. “This task force will ensure Missouri’s funding model supports students, rewards success, and meets the needs of our evolving economy.” 

Accountability, School Safety, and Classroom Culture 

Kehoe also emphasized the importance of holding schools accountable for student performance. He voiced strong support for Missouri Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger and pledged to work closely with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to improve school outcomes. He also made it clear that he will only appoint or retain State Board of Education members who align with his administration’s vision for accountability and high performance. 

In response to growing concerns about school discipline and safety, Kehoe called for common-sense discipline policies and greater respect for teachers in Missouri classrooms. He also proposed legislation requiring schools to report safety incidents and threats, reinforcing his administration’s focus on ensuring a secure learning environment for students and educators. 

“Students and teachers should feel safe in their schools,” Kehoe said. “We will take action to ensure that safety is not an afterthought but a priority in every school district.” 

Higher Education and Workforce Development 

Kehoe’s budget also includes a 1.5% increase for Missouri’s public universities and community colleges, totaling $16.8 million. Additionally, his administration is expanding Fast Track Scholarships, which help working adults return to school in high-demand fields. The program will receive $6.7 million in funding, including $2 million in new investments. 

“Our economy depends on a skilled workforce, and we must ensure that Missourians have access to the education and training necessary to compete in today’s job market,” Kehoe said. 

A Vision for Missouri’s Future 

Throughout his address, Kehoe underscored his belief that Missouri’s education system must teach students how to think, not what to think. He emphasized that schools should focus on preparing students for future success, not indoctrination. 

“Missouri educates, not indoctrinates,” Kehoe said, reiterating his administration’s commitment to ensuring education remains focused on academic excellence and critical thinking. 

As the Missouri Legislature begins budget negotiations, Kehoe’s education proposals are set to spark debate over the future of public school funding, school choice expansion, and the modernization of Missouri’s education system. 

NEMOnews Media Group reached out to school administrators in the counties we serve for their comments and concerns. Their reactions will be shared in Part 2 of this series next week.