Swan Files Four Education Bills

From the Office of

Representative Kathryn Swan

147th District

Swan Files Four Education Bills

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Four education bills filed this week by Rep. Kathryn Swan (R-Cape Girardeau) would provide greater access to education for preschool children, K12 students, and

adult learners.

"This educational package of bills could result in children being better prepared to enter Kindergarten, the completion of remedial education prior to high school graduation, and greater Access to educational opportunities for all students, including adult learners, through the use of technology. In addition, one bill calls for an annual simplified informational report card for

each school building," said Swan.

HB 1689 allows a school district to receive state aid for children ages three and four who are eligible for free and reduced lunch and attend an early childhood education program that is operated by a school district or charter school. The bill is a bi-partisan effort with Rep. John Wright (D-Columbia).

HB 1731, the Parent and Community School Information Act, requires that a simplified letter-grade report card for each public school building and each charter school be made available for parents

and the community. The report is to include the performance scores for each standard of the school improvement program along with information regarding 3rd grade reading proficiency, dual credit

courses, advanced placement courses, alternative programs, virtual courses, remedial programs and entrepreneurship programs where applicable. Swan filed a similar bill last session that passed the

House with overwhelming bi-partisan support.

HB1732 requires that school districts develop a system for identifying students who are at risk of not being ready for college-level work or entry-level career positions. Ninth graders identified

as needing remedial education would receive academic and career counselling along with sufficient opportunities to graduate college or career ready.

HB1780, the Comprehensive Learning Portal, would increase access to education through an effective, efficient use of technology. This portal would serve as a comprehensive performance-based learning program to meet the learning needs of each student, directly or through direct and contracted services.

Swan says, "Greater access can mean greater success. Being able to provide students educational opportunities based on their individual needs saves both time and money, whether it is dual enrollment, college credit, career/technical education, remediation, GED coursework, workforce training, or continuing education."