07/20/2026
Be informed about Amendment 5 and the negative financial impact it could have on our public schools. This year, the state is underfunding public education by about $190 million compared to what was promised in previous legislation. As a result, our district is projected to receive roughly $2.5 million to $3 million less in state funding next year.
As part of our commitment to keeping our community informed, St. Joseph School District is sharing information about the potential financial impact of Missouri Amendment 5 if it is approved by voters on August 4, 2026.
A significant portion of Missouri's General Revenue Fund, which helps support public education, is generated through individual income tax collections. Amendment 5 proposes changes to the state's tax structure that could affect future state revenues available for public education.
Based on an analysis by the Missouri Budget Project and St. Joseph School District financial data, the District could experience an estimated annual reduction of approximately $13.96 million in funding if the amendment is approved. This represents about 7% of the District's annual budget, or approximately $1,480 per student. As shown in the accompanying infographic, approximately 32% of the District's revenue is provided through state funding.
The long-term impact on school funding remains uncertain. While estimates have been developed using currently available information, no state plan has been enacted to identify how any reduction in General Revenue would be replaced if the amendment is approved.
This post is intended to provide factual, nonpartisan information so that our staff, families, and community members can better understand how the proposed constitutional amendment could affect public education funding.
Visit the Secretary of State's website to view official ballot language: https://www.sos.mo.gov/petitions/2026ballotmeasures
Additional information about our District’s finances, including a Citizen’s Guide can be found on our website: https://www.sjsd.k12.mo.us/departments/business-office
