Missouri’s Sunshine Law (Freedom of Information Act) is an open-government law grounded in the principle that the public is able to access records and information detailing how its governments work. Instead of just taking the word of elected officials at face value, FOIA provides broader access for people to inspect and analyze the records government bodies generate. Sweeping exemptions do apply, but such access is necessary to assist people to hold their government accountable.

This is a vital weapon for parents with children in public schools. Exercise your right under your Missouri’s Freedom of Information Act and public records laws to get documents related to your issue of concern.

Public school records available include:

If you suspect that your school district or local government is not being transparent regarding an issue of concern, we recommend filing a FOIA request immediately.

We have extensive experience filing public records requests, so CONTACT US with tips, ideas, or questions if you need assistance.

Every public body is required to have a FOIA officer. We recommend utilizing our School Board Directory or Local Elected Official Directory to find the FOIA Officer to submit your request to.

Although there is no “magic language” to FOIA requests, we have provided a link to a template as a guide.

We have extensive experience filing public records requests.

CONTACT US with tips, ideas, or questions if you need assistance.

Each district has their own specific policy and process to review the instructional material in question. This can be found on your district’s website, filed under the board doc policies and regulations.