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News Release: 35 Missouri Educators Selected as Regional Teachers of the Year

DESE has announced the 35 Regional Teachers of the Year who have been selected to represent their regions in the 2027 Missouri Teacher of the Year Program.

Administrative Memo: Annual Substitute Teacher Survey Now Open

DESE is asking districts and charter schools to complete the 2025–26 Substitute Teacher Survey, as required under section 168.037, RSMo. The survey covers substitute staffing practices, pay rates, recruitment, interviews, and use of current staff as substitutes.

Questions may be directed to Paul Katnik at 573‑751‑2931 or Paul.Katnik@dese.mo.gov.

Meet DESE’s New Chief of Governmental Affairs: Luke Reed

Luke Reed has begun serving as DESE’s Chief of Governmental Affairs. In this role, 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. He succeeds Perry Gorrell, who served through May 31.

Administrative Memo: 2026 Annual Performance Report Data Collection, Correction, Appeal and Release Schedule

The Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP) Annual Performance Report (APR) provides data for
stakeholders and guides district classifications. Local Education Agencies (LEAs) should ensure complete,
accurate data and submit any appeals or corrections during the designated windows. Requests received
outside those windows will not be accepted.

Final Day to Register — Let’s Make CCSA Unforgettable!

Registration is still open for the 65th Annual Cooperative Conference for School Administrators, happening July 26–28 at Tan-Tar-A Conference Center in Osage Beach.

We’re just five days away, and we can’t wait to see you there! It’s not too late — and today, July 21, is your final day to register. Don’t miss out on the learning, collaboration and connection waiting for you at this year’s conference!

Registration will close today, and any registration received after July 21 will be considered on-site at a rate of $375 per person.

Be sure to check out the conference itinerary to see all the great sessions and events planned!

Summer Learning Made Simple for Families

Learning shows up in all kinds of places — at home, in the library, outdoors, and throughout daily life.

This summer, DESE is offering easy ideas and helpful activities so families can support their children’s learning, build confidence, and prepare for a great start to the new school year.

Follow along and be part of the conversation:
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Administrative Memo: Clarification Regarding Literacy Measure in the A-F School and District Grading Framework

DESE’s proposed A–F grading framework is under State Board review. Full implementation is expected with 2026–27 data, including required literacy measures based on state‑approved reading assessments and Lexile® scores. DESE will share updates as the framework develops.