The Missouri State Board of Education oversees public education policy across the state, from academic standards and teacher certification to district accreditation and education funding recommendations.
Aligned’s Guide to the Missouri State Board of Education explains the Board’s responsibilities, how its members are appointed, who currently serves, and how the public can follow its meetings and decisions.
Board duties
Under the Missouri Constitution, the State Board of Education supervises instruction in the state’s public schools. It appoints the Commissioner of Education and sets policy for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
It also sets academic standards and statewide testing requirements, and it accredits public school districts. It sets certification rules for teachers and administrators and submits annual budget recommendations to the Legislature.
The Board does not hire local teachers or set district calendars. It does not regulate private, parochial, or home schools. Individual members cannot act for the Board. Decisions require the full Board with a quorum. The governor appoints eight voting members, and the Senate confirms them.
Board members
Members serve staggered eight-year terms. No more than four can belong to the same party, and no more than one can come from the same congressional district. A ninth, non-voting seat for an active classroom teacher was filled for the first time in July 2026.
The eight voting seats are held by four Republicans, two Democrats, and two independents. Three members are awaiting Senate confirmation. Brooks Miller is president, and Jon Otto is vice president. The guide includes a biography of each member. The Board meets about 10 times a year, usually in Jefferson City.
Following Board actions
Agendas, minutes, and recordings are posted on DESE’s State Board page. You can reach the Board at SBE@dese.mo.gov or (573) 751-3563, or by mail at PO Box 480, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480.