Missouri's Segregated School Laws Criticized by Education Reform Advocate Lauren Wagner
Published on 4.12.25
The issue of unequal access to quality education has been a long-standing concern in Missouri, with the state's school residence laws being criticized for perpetuating segregation and limiting opportunities for low-income students. These laws have been likened to the old redlining maps that once excluded minority communities from certain neighborhoods, effectively denying them access to better schools.
In April 2025, Lauren Wagner of The 74 shed light on this issue, highlighting the need for reform in Missouri's education system. Her report noted that these strict laws not only limit students' educational opportunities but also perpetuate a cycle of poverty and inequality.
By examining the impact of Missouri's school residence laws, it becomes clear that addressing educational disparities requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes student needs over outdated policies.