Two state Republican lawmakers say failing districts need new teachers
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Two state Republican lawmakers say failing districts need new teachers

Date: October 1, 2013
By: Christina Turner
State Capitol Bureau

Intro: 
A Republican state lawmaker says bringing in outside talent could be the only way to save Missouri’s failing school districts.
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Wrap: Joint Education Committee Chair Senator David Pearce says teachers from accredited districts could staff unaccredited schools.

Actuality:  PEARCE2.WAV
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Description: I think that's very much a possibility, that they can come in and provide the educational services in those failing districts, because then that means those surrounding districts are taking responsibility and taking a lead role.


 

Education committee member Senator Gary Romine says the state needs to focus heavily on unaccredited schools.

But Education Appropriations Chair Representative Mike Lair says the state needs to take care of all schools, not just the failing ones.

The former school teacher says addressing issues on a school-by-school basis would be more effective.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Christina Turner.

 

Intro: 
A failing school district's superintendent tells state lawmakers he doesn't need state aid.
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Wrap: When Republican Senator Scott Rupp asked why he should believe Riverview Gardens can turn things around, Superintendent Scott Spurgeon said

Actuality:  SPURGE1.WAV
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Description: "I don't need your money. You don't want to give me money, don't give me money, that's fine. We're still going to get it done. So just watch my action. Because I know my community is sick and tired of us talking about it too, so all I say is, watch how we lead."

Spurgeon is one of several superintendents who spoke at a hearing on long-term solutions for students living in unaccredited districts.

School officials at the hearing say the biggest issue is a lack of transfer laws, not a lack of funds.

But Education Commissioner Dr. Chris Nicastro says the Normandy school district will go bankrupt by March without state aid.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Christina Turner.