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Board approves Shawnee Mission—s 2026 legislative platform emphasizing federal support and special education
Summary
The board unanimously approved the district—s 2026 legislative platform with edits that underscore support for a robust federal role in education and a focus on special education funding; vote recorded 7-0.
The Shawnee Mission Board of Education voted unanimously to approve the district—s 2026 legislative platform after staff presented first- and second-read edits.
Dr. Schumacher and district staff described edits incorporated after the prior meeting; David Little noted new language clarifying that the district "supports policies that maintain a strong federal role in public education," citing the U.S. Department of Education—s role in distributing funds to states and enforcing civil rights protections.
Board discussion emphasized continued advocacy on special education funding. One member asked the board to be "particularly aggressive" in legislative advocacy for special education given the district—s large population of students with disabilities. Another member suggested the board consider adding a local policy agenda in future cycles to address issues such as housing affordability and safe routes to school, which board members said affect student enrollment and retention.
A motion to approve the platform was made, seconded and approved by a voice vote recorded as 7-0. No amendments were adopted after the second-read edits presented on the screen.
The board moved on to routine items after the vote and later entered executive session for a privileged attorney-client consultation.
