For Immediate Release:  Jan. 24, 2023

Contact: Seth York, 573-751-1492

JEFFERSON CITY — State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, today presented legislation to the Education and Workforce Development Committee that would give parents the choice for their kids’ education. This legislation would also provide a tax credit to families who choose to homeschool their children.

“Parents, not bureaucrats, should decide what is best for their kids and their education,” Sen. Coleman said. “The state share of that decision should follow the child. We have to stop funding systems and start funding students.”

Beginning with the 2023-24 school year, Senate Bill 81 would allow parents to use education dollars to send their child to whichever Missouri public, private or parochial school best serves their needs. A form created by the state treasurer’s office and provided during enrollment would direct state aid to the school of choice, and the school district would notify the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  

“State government should be working for Missouri’s working families with solution-focused policies that actually make a difference in their lives,” said Sen. Coleman. “We can and should give parents the freedom to send their kids to the school of their choice.”

For more information about Sen. Coleman and her legislative actions, please visit her official Missouri Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Coleman.