Did you know that some of the money that would go to your local public school is now going to private schools?
That’s right. In Missouri, a program called “MO Scholars” is using public tax dollars to help pay for private school tuition. In 2025, the state gave $50 million to this program. But here’s the thing: only about 6,400 students got help from it in the 2025-26 school year. Meanwhile, more than 850,000 kids go to public schools in Missouri.
That means a lot of money is going to just a few students, while most kids are left with less.
What Does This Mean for Your School?
Public schools use money to pay for teachers, books, school buses, sports, music, and safe buildings. When money is taken away, schools may have to:
Reduction in Academic Options
- Cut art, music, or sports programs
- Make class sizes bigger
- Delay fixing old buildings
- Pay teachers less, which can lead to fewer teachers
This hurts all the kids who go to public schools — and that’s most of the kids in Missouri.
What About Private Schools?
Private schools can be great for some families. But they don’t have to accept every student. They can say no to kids with disabilities or kids who need extra help. They don’t have to follow the same rules as public schools. And they don’t have to show how they spend the money they get.
Public schools are different. They welcome every child. They are open to all. And they have to show how they use every dollar.
Why This Matters
Our public schools are already short on money. Missouri is one of the lowest states in the country when it comes to funding public education. Taking more money away makes it even harder for schools to give kids what they need.
We believe every child deserves a great public school — no matter where they live or how much money their family has.
What Can You Do?
Talk to your neighbors. Engage on behalf of your local public school. Ask your lawmakers to keep public money in public schools. Let’s make sure every child in Missouri has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed.