© 2024 University of Missouri - KBIA
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Bill Could Allow Charter School Expansion

Missouri Capitol Building
j.stephenconn
/
Flickr
Missouri Statehouse in Jefferson City

The Missouri House has passed a bill that could allow charter schools to expand to more districts.

With an 83-76 vote on Thursday, the House passed a proposal that would allow charters to operate in more heavily-populated districts such as Springfield and Columbia. It would also allow charters to move into districts with at least one low-performing school.

Opponents say the proposal takes money away from underfunded public schools and gives the money to privately-operated charters with less accountability.

House Speaker Todd Richardson said the proposal ensures accountability by allowing the state to revoke a charter's renewal application for low performance. He said it also allows more choice for kids zoned to low-performing schools.

The legislation now moves to the Senate.