Missouri Senate Bill SB806

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 1/20/22

Caption

Requires school districts with a certain number of gifted students to establish a state-approved program for such students

Impact

The bill proposes significant changes to current educational statutes by repealing section 162.720 and instituting a new framework that emphasizes the importance of gifted education. It establishes a binding requirement for school districts to develop and implement gifted programs, thereby ensuring that all qualifying students have access to specialized educational services. This aligns state policy with the growing recognition of the educational needs of gifted students and their right to appropriate learning environments.

Summary

Senate Bill 806 aims to standardize requirements for schools regarding gifted education. It mandates that starting from the 2024 school year, any school district with three percent or more gifted students must establish a state-approved program dedicated to meeting the educational needs of these students. This legislation seeks to ensure that gifted children receive appropriate educational resources and opportunities beyond what is typically available in regular public school programs, recognizing their unique developmental requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB806 may arise from the definitions and identification criteria for gifted students as set forth in the bill. The bill prohibits districts from identifying students as gifted based solely on their participation in advanced placement or international baccalaureate courses, which may lead to debate among educators and policymakers regarding the best methods for recognizing giftedness. Furthermore, the requirement for teacher certification in gifted education could raise concerns about teacher availability and qualification standards, especially in smaller districts with fewer resources.