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Governor Mike Kehoe appointed two new members to the State Board of Education (State Board) Wednesday, June 3. The new appointees are Jordan Bradberry, of Kansas City, and Robbie Myers, of Poplar Bluff.
Bradberry fills the seat for the 4th Congressional District, previously held by Kim Bailey who was appointed to the State Board in 2018.
Myers fills the seat for the 8th Congressional District, previously held by Mary Schrag who was appointed to the State Board in 2019.
These appointments are now subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate.
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Dolly Parton Imagination Library Update
Due to the 2027 Fiscal Year state budget reduction, beginning Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library will not have the funds to accept new applications to the program.
DESE-OOC will continue providing books to families already enrolled, as funding allows.
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The Southwest R‑V School District has been recognized as a 2025 – 26 Capturing Kids’ Hearts® National Showcase District, honoring the district’s commitment to relationship-building, positive school culture, and student success. The award highlights districts that demonstrate exceptional outcomes through effective implementation of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® process — ensuring students feel safe, connected, and valued.
As part of this districtwide achievement, Southwest High School and Southwest Elementary School have also been named 2025 – 26 Capturing Kids’ Hearts® National Showcase Schools, reflecting the dedication of administrators, faculty, and staff to purposeful practices that strengthen trust and student connectedness.
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The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) has adjusted the Healthy SNAP implementation timeline to February 15, 2027. The extended window allows DSS to incorporate feedback from local grocers, agricultural partners, and community stakeholders; finalize clear guidance and educational materials; and equip retailers with a comprehensive product identification list to update inventory and POS systems. Updated waiver materials were submitted to USDA FNS on June 3, 2026.
In the meantime, Missouri SuN Bucks (Summer EBT) applications are open now to help families buy food for school‑aged children during June – August. Eligible families receive a one‑time $120 benefit per child loaded onto an EBT card for use at authorized locations.
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Quick Reminders: Assessment Updates and Survey
- Beginning Wednesday, July 1, 2026, Educational Testing Service's (ETS) ParaPathways assessment will replace the ParaPro in Missouri. DESE will continue accepting ParaPro scores for assessments completed before July 1. Please continue sharing throughout June.
- The survey window for First-Year Educators and their supervisors closes Friday, June 12, 2026. If you received a survey invitation, please complete it before the deadline.
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Registration is open for the 2026 Cooperative Conference for School Administrators, July 26 – 28 at Tan-Tar-A Conference Center in Osage Beach.
This year’s theme, The Power of Public Education, highlights the impact of Missouri’s schools and educators.
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Registration is now open for the 2026 Postsecondary Transition Training Institute (PTTI), June 23 – 25 at the Wyndham Executive Center in Columbia.
The institute will feature sessions focused on postsecondary transition and is open to educators, service providers, families, and others who support individuals with varying abilities.
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Enrollment is now open for Cohort 41 of Leadership Academy for School Principals through the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS).
Designed for administrators with at least two years of experience, the program helps principals strengthen instructional leadership, collaborate with peers, and support school improvement.
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Summer Learning Continues
Learning can happen anywhere — at home, at the library, outside, or during everyday activities.
This summer, DESE will share simple tips, activities, and resources to help students stay engaged, build confidence, and prepare for the school year ahead.
Follow along and be part of the conversation:
Facebook | X | Instagram | LinkedIn
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DESE is aware of a phishing attempt targeting school districts. Fraudulent emails directed recipients to a malicious link requesting sensitive information.
Please remember to:
- Not click suspicious links or attachments.
- Verify sender email addresses carefully.
- Never share passwords or sensitive information by email.
- Report suspicious messages to your district technology department.
Thank you for helping protect district, staff, and student information by staying alert to cybersecurity threats.
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