“Given the latest alleged instances of abuse of power by Dr. Chris Nicastro exposed Sunday by The Kansas City Star, it is imperative that she resign immediately as state education commissioner or, if she fails to do so, be removed from her post by the Missouri State Board of Education.

“In addition, we are asking the State Board of Education to open an internal investigation into potential bid-rigging by Dr. Nicastro to ensure that an education department contract was granted to an organization she favors, despite the fact that its bid was more than three times more costly to taxpayers than the bid of the next closest competitor.

“Furthermore, we believe the governor, without delay, should appoint someone to fill the vacant seat on the State Board of Education from the 5th Congressional District so that the people of Kansas City are represented in upcoming decisions affecting the fate of the Kansas City School District and its children.”

State Rep. Genise Montecillo                       State Sen. Paul LeVota
92nd District                                                    11th District

State Rep. Bonnaye Mims                            State Sen. Maria Chappelle-Nadal
27th District                                                    14th District

State Rep. Judy Morgan                              State Rep. John Mayfield
24th District                                                    20th District

State Rep. Ira Anders
28th District