President-Elect Trump has repeatedly stated his desire to close the U.S. Department of Education and return education back to the states. To many on the right, this has been a longstanding goal. Yet here in Missouri, there is a slight problem with this strategy. Moving money and authority from Washington, D.C. to Jefferson City means placing more authority in the hands of the commissioner of education, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the state board of education, all of which have terrible track records.
There is hope. Several members of Missouri’s state board of education are serving on expired terms. Missouri’s governor-elect has an opportunity to reshape the state board of education. By appointing new members who are committed to bold, innovative policies, the governor can break the cycle of dysfunction that has plagued the board and department. (Does anyone recall the disaster called Common Core or the Top 10 by 2020 initiative?) These appointments can bring a renewed focus on empowering families, fostering school choice, and improving student outcomes across the state.
Missouri has long struggled with underperforming schools and bureaucratic inefficiency. A revamped board with a clear vision and a commitment to reform could transform the educational landscape. For instance, new appointees could push for greater autonomy for local school districts, promote policies that expand educational options for families, and ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed—toward helping students succeed.
If President-Elect Trump follows through on his pledge to return education to the states, Missouri must be ready to rise to the occasion. This begins with a strong, forward-thinking state board of education. It is time to seize this moment of opportunity, embrace meaningful reform, and truly make Missouri education great.
The ball is in the governor-elect’s court. Missouri’s future—and the future of its children—depends on what happens next.
The governor-elect is currently looking for qualified individuals to serve on the state board of education. If you are interested in serving, notify the governor-elect of your interest by completing the form here.
