|
|
DESE is pleased to recognize Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge as she concluded her term on the Missouri State Board of Education (State Board) on July 1.
“Serving on the State Board has truly been one of the great joys of my life,” Westbrooks-Hodge said. “Working alongside people who care so deeply about Missouri’s students has been inspiring and energizing. I’m proud of what we accomplished together, and I leave with deep gratitude and excitement for the future of education in our state.”
DESE thanks Westbrooks-Hodge for her dedicated service, leadership, and enthusiasm for Missouri’s students.
|
|
Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force Update
The Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force convened Monday to continue its work examining the state’s current funding model and exploring opportunities for improvement.
Members discussed ongoing analysis, reviewed emerging priorities, and outlined next steps as the group moves toward its final recommendations.
Click to hear the Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force meeting recording
|
|
Flag at Half‑Staff in Honor of Senator Lindsey Graham
President Donald J. Trump has ordered that all U.S. flags be flown at half‑staff effective immediately through July 18, 2026, at 6 p.m.
This national tribute honors the life and service of Senator Lindsey Graham, whose passing has prompted this period of remembrance.
|
|
DESE Welcomes New Chief of Governmental Affairs: Luke Reed
Luke Reed will begin serving as DESE’s Chief of Governmental Affairs on Monday, July 20, 2026. He will lead the department’s governmental relations work and support legislative and policy priorities. Luke brings nearly a decade of experience in public policy and strategic communication. Luke succeeds Perry Gorrell, who served through May 31.
Please join us in welcoming Luke to DESE!
|
|
|
We’re seeing a widespread phishing email targeting school districts. The message falsely claims to be from DESE leadership and promotes a giveaway for a 2014 Airstream trailer. It asks staff to reply with personal information to an external Outlook address.
Key red flags:
- Unsolicited “giveaway”
- Requests for personal details
- Sender uses a non‑DESE email address
- Incorrect titles and formatting
Please delete the message if received and remind staff not to respond or click anything. Report suspicious emails to your IT team.
|
|
|
Registration is open for the 2026 Cooperative Conference for School Administrators, July 26 – 28 at Tan-Tar-A Conference Center in Osage Beach.
|
|
Summer Learning Continues
Learning can happen anywhere — at home, at the library, outside, or during everyday activities.
This summer, DESE is sharing 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
|
|
|
Here are a few tips from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) during extreme heat.
If you are outside in the heat, especially for a long time:
- Stay in the shade as much as possible.
- Take breaks when you can.
- Try to do outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day or evening.
- Carry a water bottle. Drink and refill throughout the day.
- Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.
|
|
|
|
