2026 KASS Kids First Legislative Priorities

Kentucky is a state on the rise. With a growing economy, business-friendly environment, and thriving communities, the Commonwealth is building momentum toward a brighter future. But sustaining this progress depends on one essential pillar: a strong, future-ready system of public education.

Education is Kentucky’s most powerful engine of opportunity—producing engaged citizens, strengthening families, and fueling every industry. As we approach the 2026 legislative session, we face a defining moment. Now is the time to champion a bold new vision for public education: one that is responsive, inclusive, and focused on excellence for every learner.

Together, we must act decisively in three areas:

  • Launch a Modern Accountability System

    Kentucky’s next accountability system must go beyond test scores. We need a framework that measures academic growth while also reflecting local values, student passions, and community-defined success. By honoring the full picture of learning, we can ensure every child becomes the best version of themselves.

  • Build a Sustainable Educator Workforce Pipeline

    The future of Kentucky’s schools depends on the people who lead them. From teachers to superintendents, we must elevate the profession, attract new talent, and retain experienced educators. Strategic investments and multiple career pathways will help secure a strong, future-ready workforce.

  • Secure a Budget Policy that Invests in Success

    A bold vision for education requires bold investment. Restoring SEEK funding to its 2008 inflation-adjusted level will allow districts to pay competitive salaries, meet student needs, and plan for long-term success. Kentucky’s budget should reflect our highest priority: the future of our children.

The path is clear. The time is now. Together, we can shape a world-class education system that reflects the promise of every child, the values of every community, and the vision of a thriving Commonwealth.

Long-Term Priorities (2025 and Beyond)

  • Increase SEEK investment to return to the 2008 inflation-adjusted equivalent of $5,743 per student by FY2028.


  • Establish a 60/40 budget policy (state/local ratio) for balanced, equitable funding.


  • Fully fund pupil transportation, full-day kindergarten, and expanded preschool access.


  • Fully fund the School Safety and Resiliency Act of 2019 and ensure all schools have SROs and mental health professionals.


  • Modernize the school facility construction funding mechanism.


  • Require Fiscal Notes for all education bills to prevent unfunded mandates.


  • Provide funding to support competitive educator salaries and revise minimum salary schedules.


  • Incentivize multiple career pathways into education, including paid apprenticeships, scholarships, and loan forgiveness.

Removing Barriers to Unleash Learning

  • Revise accountability to include local, community-based components alongside state measures.


  • Expand personalized graduation requirements to align with student interests and talents.


  • Provide greater flexibility in academic calendars, seat time, and innovative learning models.


  • Move from compliance-driven professional development to growth-focused, job-embedded training.


  • Reform certification limits to better use local talent, particularly in high-demand subjects.



  • Align educator preparation programs to deliver personalized, deep learning instruction.

Enhancing the Profession of Education

  • Leverage education’s designation as an In-Demand Work Sector to attract and retain top talent.


  • Fund effective onboarding and induction supports for new teachers, principals, and superintendents.


  • Align professional development and certification with flexible, multiple pathways into teaching and leadership.


  • Cultivate future educators through Educators Rising chapters and partnerships with higher education.

Targeted Priorities for the 2025 Session

  • Improve homeschool provider qualifications and implement a “stay-put” provision for students with truancy or disciplinary issues.


  • Continue to fund and refine the School Safety and Resiliency Act, fully funding SROs and mental health professionals.


  • Strengthen school facility construction funding and equalization policies.


  • Require Fiscal Notes for all education bills.


  • Oppose privatization of public funds for education and reform the charter school funding mechanism (HB9 of 2022).


  • Empower local decision-making whenever possible.


  • Study and remove outdated or redundant mandates that burden districts.

Our Commitment to Kentucky’s Future

Section 183 of the Kentucky Constitution establishes a shared responsibility between the state and local communities to provide an efficient system of common schools. KASS remains committed to this constitutional promise. Together, with bold advocacy and collaborative leadership, we can ensure every Kentucky child has access to a high-quality public education that prepares them for success in school, career, and life.