A Missouri circuit court judge has upheld the MOScholars program, rejecting a legal challenge aimed at blocking the state’s school choice initiative.
The ruling came from Cole County Circuit Court, where the judge dismissed all constitutional claims against the program. MOScholars, formally known as the Missouri Empowerment Scholarship Accounts program, allows taxpayer-funded scholarships to be used for education-related expenses outside traditional public schools. Those funds can be used to pay for private school tuition, tutoring, therapy, and other approved educational services.
Missouri lawmakers approved $50 million for the program in 2025, and state officials say more than 6,000 students are using the scholarships during the current school year. The program allows families to choose from a range of education providers, including private schools and other non-public education options.
The lawsuit was filed by the Missouri National Education Association, which sought to block the distribution of about $51 million in scholarship funds.
Cole County Circuit Judge Brian Stumpe ruled the group did not have legal standing to bring the case and rejected its arguments on the merits.
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway’s office defended the program, saying the ruling allows families to continue accessing education options they believe best fit their children’s needs. The attorney general’s office said it will continue to defend the program against future legal challenges.
With the court ruling in place, the MOScholars program will continue operating statewide, allowing eligible Missouri families to use public funds for private education and other approved learning services.
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