Opinion -- Missouri Ballot Initiative Would Establish Right to High Quality Public Education

By Missouri Right to Education

The Missouri Right to Education campaign is preparing to begin signature collection to place a proposed constitutional amendment on the ballot that would guarantee every child in Missouri the right to high-quality public education.

Missouri is facing a number of challenges as we work to strengthen our communities and grow our economy. With an aging population and Missourians now dying at a faster rate than they are being born, it is essential that we give people every reason to make Missouri their home.  With the biggest driver of home selection being access to quality education, it is essential that Missouri raises its national profile through a constitutional commitment to that end.

Our constitution currently requires the legislature to provide free public schools, but there is no reference to our children having the “right” to adequate, thorough, and uniform high-quality education. Without a constitutional amendment enshrining the right to education, parents lack strong legal standing to hold the state accountable should it not uphold that right.

“This amendment is not about politics,” said Spencer Toder, Director of Missouri Right to Education. “It is about putting Missouri’s kids’ futures in writing. This will give teachers, parents, and communities the power to advocate for our students and make sure they get the kind of education that prepares them for a successful life.” 

The proposed amendment’s language has been submitted to the Secretary of State. To ensure voters have clear and accurate ballot language for the amendment, the campaign has filed a legal challenge to the state’s initial summary, which Toder asserts is false. “Why Secretary Hoskins would attempt to mislead voters who just want kids to have a right to education is beyond me, but we are confident that the courts will require fair and accurate language, and once that process is complete, we will begin signature gathering.”

The campaign emphasizes that the amendment does not add new programs or restrict educational opportunities. Its sole purpose is to ensure Missouri’s children have access to strong public schools across the state, no matter where they live. Missorians who are interested in getting involved in the effort can sign up to volunteer and contribute at MOEducation.org.

“The passing of this amendment will be a beacon to growing businesses across the country that Missouri is serious about fostering the most educated and prepared workforce possible.” Toder said. “Through a right to education, we will ensure a brighter future for Missouri.”