Northeast Missouri Superintendents React to Governor Kehoe’s Education Proposals

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 By Mike Scott 

NEMOnews Media Group 

This is part 2 of a 2-part series on Governor Mike Kehoe’s education proposals. 

Following Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe’s 2025 State of the State address, in which he outlined record-high investments in K-12 education, school choice expansion, and an overhaul of the state’s funding formula, local superintendents are weighing in on the impact of these proposals on public schools. 

Funding Increases and Concerns Over Full Formula Funding 

Gov. Kehoe’s proposed $200 million increase in the state’s Foundation Formula— the largest since 2005—was met with cautious optimism from school leaders. While superintendents appreciated the additional funding, many expressed concerns about sustainability and the absence of full formula funding. 

Schuyler County R-1 Superintendent Kyle Windy acknowledged the increase but noted the need for a long-term solution. “The foundation formula isn’t perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction,” he said. “Kehoe also mentioned the fact that the formula would not be fully funded in the future. Full funding is a critical step for schools in Missouri. Although he doesn’t plan to embark on it this session, he was transparent that he needs to gather stakeholders to redo the education formula. I appreciate the statement that he needs to get others involved to come up with a solution that will move education forward.” 

Clark County Superintendent Ritchie Kracht, who will assume the role of Hannibal superintendent in July, emphasized the financial strain schools face. “Public schools are facing several challenges. We are struggling to find certified teachers and to staff our non-certified positions. The number of students who have social-emotional concerns continue to increase each school year. Our operational costs continue to rise due to inflation,” he said. “The Governor was transparent that he was not placing money in the budget to fully fund the formula. This gives the school community an opportunity to work with the Governor’s office and our legislators to discuss our concerns. Fully funding the foundation formula is critical to providing an equitable education for all students in the state. The cost to fully fund the formula next year is an additional $300 million.” 

School Choice and Open Enrollment 

One of Kehoe’s key education initiatives is the expansion of school choice, including support for open enrollment, school vouchers, and charter school funding. While the governor emphasized that families deserve greater educational options, some superintendents expressed concerns about how these policies could affect public schools. 

South Shelby Superintendent Billy Daleske raised questions about potential funding shifts. “My biggest concern is, what are the ramifications to our local public schools if we see a drop in state funding for public schools and then we also see our local tax dollars are allowed to be diverted through open enrollment?” he said. “While I do not think any of our legislators seek to pass bills that will have a negative impact on the children in our state, I would encourage them to fully research any bills they are considering and understand the full ramifications any legislation may have on their local districts.” 

Palmyra R-1 Superintendent Jason Harper acknowledged that school choice will be a major topic of debate. “Governor Kehoe has made school choice (open enrollment) a priority, and we, as school leaders, will need to join in conversation with legislators and DESE about what is best for the students across the state,” he said. “It is an issue that will create much discussion during this legislative session, and school leaders will need to monitor the progress of open enrollment and give feedback to what is best for each individual school district.” 

Scotland County R-1 Superintendent Ryan Bergeson expressed concern about the broader impact of these policies on public education. 

“Governor Kehoe also demonstrated a commitment to open enrollment, school vouchers, and charter schools.  Some of these issues will have an adverse impact on public education,” he said. “We are hopeful that funding and supporting public education, our students, and teachers will remain a top priority as we try to advance public education in Northeast Missouri and throughout the State of Missouri.” 

Investments in Early Childhood and Vocational Education 

Superintendents expressed support for Kehoe’s commitments to early childhood education and career-focused learning. The governor’s proposal includes funding for early childhood special education, vocational training, and transportation— initiatives that many school leaders say are essential. 

“These are all vital to the success of our students,” Kracht said. “We need a highly educated workforce to continue to move Missouri forward. This will take all of us working together, including parents, community members, teachers, school leaders, and elected officials, to ensure we can provide the resources needed to allow each student to reach their full potential.” 

Highland Superintendent John French welcomed the increased investment in these areas but emphasized the need for continued support for public schools. “Education is the foundation of our communities, our economy, and our state’s future prosperity,” he said. “While I was eager to hear more about Governor Kehoe’s plans for strengthening public education, I remain hopeful that we can work together to ensure our public schools remain strong, well-supported, and accessible to all Missouri students.” 

A Path Forward 

Despite concerns about the funding formula and school choice policies, many superintendents expressed hope for productive collaboration with state leadership. 

“Governor Kehoe’s leadership in addressing these concerns, while acknowledging the complexities of the task at hand, is encouraging,” said Knox County R-1 Superintendent Andy Turgeon. “As a community of educators, we must continue advocating for the resources necessary to fulfill the educational promise we make to our students.” 

As the legislative session progresses, school administrators plan to stay engaged in discussions with lawmakers to ensure that any policy changes benefit Missouri’s students and communities. 

Editor’s note: We asked all school superintendents in the communities we serve to respond. Most did. A few did not take the opportunity. Thanks to all who provided comments.