Aligned’s Priorities for 2026

Preparing every student for success requires thoughtful policy and strong partnerships. The priorities below outline key focus areas for the 2026 legislative session in Kansas and Missouri.

Kansas

Cell Phone Ban
Support legislation that requires a bell-to-bell cell phone ban in schools.

State Longitudinal Data System
Pass legislation to create a statewide longitudinal data system to link education, workforce, and other state data to provide a comprehensive view of student outcomes across education and employment pathways.

School Finance Reform
Assist the Education Funding Task Force to simulate potential changes to the K-12 formula. Provide research and recommendations for a new, student-based funding formula.

Missouri

Literacy
Ensure implementation of science of reading legislation.

Early Care and Education
Protect the appropriations for Pre-K programs. Support the creation of a childcare provider and employer-based tax credits.

Open Enrollment
Support legislation to establish an open enrollment policy to allow students to attend schools outside their local or assigned district with transportation provisions.

School Finance Reform
Support Missouri School Funding Modernization Task Force work.

School Accountability
Support legislation that enables new and simplified accountability measures for public district and charter schools.