MO SB369

Expands charter school eligibility to operate in unaccredited school districts and adjoining accredited districts, allowing them to continue operating even if the unaccredited district later becomes accredited.

Allows students in unaccredited districts to transfer to accredited public schools, charter schools, approved nonpublic schools, or virtual schools in the same or adjoining county with state-funded scholarships covering tuition and transportation.

Requires unaccredited districts to make vacant school buildings available free of charge to accredited districts, charter schools, virtual schools, and approved nonpublic schools for five consecutive years after the unaccredited district achieves accreditation.

Adds charter school sponsorship options including the state board of education, mayors of cities not within counties, and accredited school boards in unaccredited districts, with detailed oversight and accountability requirements.

Bill effectiveness is contingent upon voter passage of two constitutional amendments: one removing restrictions on public funds aiding religious purposes and another repealing section 8 of article IX.