2010 Legislative Goals
Provide appropriations for fully funding the Foundation Formula. Redefine the adequacy target calculation to provide no less than a two-percent increase each time it is recalculated. Provide all direct and associated costs for state-mandated programs, including meeting the statutory obligations of transportation for FY 2010 at 75 percent of the allowable costs; special education and Section 504; at-risk; Parents as Teachers; testing; and assessment. Support legislation that defines the parameters of collective bargaining for public school employees while preserving the authority of the local Board of Education as the decision-making body on all issues. Support legislation that provides a balanced approach to granting economic development incentives with a stronger voice from taxing jurisdictions whose revenue would be impacted by development incentives. Support legislation to increase the constitutional limit for school districts' bonding capacity. Oppose any legislation that would reduce or divert revenue from the public schools. Oppose legislation that authorizes scholarship or tuition tax credits, tuition tax deductions, or vouchers for pre-K through 12th-grade students. Oppose legislation creating open enrollment or school choice that would allow parents to send their children to public schools outside their own district.
2010 Legislative Position Statements
Support legislation that returns control to local boards of education. Support the continuation of local school districts' determination of the school year calendar. Oppose legislation that sets percentages for school district fund balances. Support legislation that provides an avenue for new sources of revenue for public school districts. Oppose legislation that would alter the basic governance structure of the Missouri State High School Activities Association. Support legislation that enhances the school districts' ability to maintain a safe and orderly environment, including state funding for security measures, drop-out prevention, and alternative services for students who have been suspended or expelled. Support the elimination of unfunded mandates unless individual school districts are allowed to decide on continuing or discontinuing such programs. Support the continuation of existing property tax relief for senior citizens within reasonable income limitations. Oppose any reduction in the state minimum standards for teacher certification. Oppose expansion of public charter schools. Support legislation stipulating the enactment of sound and timely property tax assessment practices and the clarification of assessment terms and timelines to promote uniformity and fairness of property tax assessments. Oppose any amendment to the Constitution to allow the distribution of state monies directly or indirectly to religious organizations or any institution of learning controlled or sponsored by any religious creed, church, or sectarian denomination. Support legislation that totally prohibits possession of firearms on all school premises, facilities, vehicles, and at all school activities, with the exception of law enforcement officials; and that increases and strengthens penalties for violations. Support funding for intensive professional development that provides a comprehensive and sustainable approach to improving teachers' and principals' effectiveness in raising student achievement. Support the provision of a simple majority for the passage of local school district bond issues.
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