The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is exploring alternatives that replace the traditional time-based educational system with a competency-based system. Competency-based learning (CBL) is an education practice that places the learner at the center. In February of 2022, DESE tasked a group of Missouri educators to lead the Success Ready Students Work Group (SRSWG) with identifying the key ingredients for successful implementation of competency-based education at state and local levels.

2020-21 Impact of Lost Instructional Time Analysis

School-Based Mental Health (SBMH) is a comprehensive continuum of support facilitated in schools to promote the well-being of the school community and mitigate the impact of behavioral health challenges. SBMH systems align best practices and streamline resources as school professionals collaborate with families and community partners to provide safe and healthy learning environments for students. The SBMH section supports this work through collaboration and technical assistance. 

CORE Framework

The State Board of Education’s (State Board's) K-12 Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Workgroup developed the Competencies of Relationship-building Education (CORE) Framework, Glossary, and Student Indicators in 2023. The framework can be used to help guide schools in their work to provide SEL to students in an effort to better equip students to become successful, productive contributors to a global society.

The Division of Learning Services is committed to supporting educators in implementing effective, evidence-based practices in Missouri’s public schools with the goal of improved student learning for every student in every school. The Continuous Improvement System and its Theory of Action underscore the primary goal of DESE’s Show Me Success plan: All Missouri students will graduate ready for success.