AGP Executive Report

Education Leadership: Missouri’s Board of Education unanimously named Stacey Preis interim commissioner, tasking her with keeping DESE momentum on A-F report cards, targeted school support, real-world pathways, and safe, healthy schools. Tragedy & Public Safety: A skydiving plane crash near Butler Memorial Airport killed 12 people, including 11 skydivers and a pilot; federal investigators (NTSB/FAA) are now examining wreckage as families and the tight-knit skydiving community mourn. Health Policy: Final federal rules for Medicaid work requirements are out, spelling out what millions of enrollees must do to keep coverage—an issue Missouri advocates say many people may not yet be aware of. Local Culture & Community: Evangel University student Johnathan Peak was recognized as a 2026 Missouri Teacher Leader of Tomorrow, earning mentorship and coaching through the Missouri Milken Educators program. Sports & Global Culture: As the 2026 World Cup ramps up in Kansas City, England’s camp faced setbacks tied to an ICE-linked charter plane, while Missouri hosts more World Cup-related community activity. Business & Lifestyle: Gov. Mike Kehoe announced Amazon will build a $10 billion data center in Montgomery City, promising 400 jobs and addressing electric service costs. Arts & Design: A Missouri kitchen design feature highlights how local designers focus on how people move and live in a space—not just surfaces. Pop Culture: Omari Collins discusses performing in Kinky Boots and the work behind dancing in heels, with a local donation drive tied to the show.

Missouri Aviation Safety: A skydiving plane operated by Skydive Kansas City crashed shortly after takeoff near Butler Memorial Airport, killing all 12 aboard; investigators are now looking at safety practices and whether oversight of skydiving operations is as strong as it should be. Community & Care: In Greene County, Safe to Sleep opened a new year-round women’s shelter, replacing cots-in-a-church-gym with a modern emergency shelter space—an upgrade that signals how local nonprofits are reshaping support for women. Education & Work Life: Kansas City Public Schools approved a “historic” 5% base salary raise for teachers and other staff, a reminder that pay and retention are culture issues, not just budgets. Health Policy: The Trump administration warned 500+ hospitals to post clearer pricing or face steep penalties, pushing the culture conversation toward transparency in everyday healthcare costs. Professional Accountability: Missouri revoked a CPA license and firm permit after violations including improper attest services and continuing education shortfalls. Learning & Play: Lightbridge Academy marked International Mud Day with research-backed, nature-based programming—messy play as serious early learning. Local Culture & Travel: Lou Mitchell’s on Route 66 continues to draw generations of travelers, keeping Americana alive as the road celebrates its 100th year.

Health Policy: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals that they’re not posting required pricing info, threatening up to $2 million in annual penalties for noncompliance. Tragedy & Safety: A skydiving plane operated by Skydive Kansas City crashed near Butler Memorial Airport, killing all 12 aboard (pilot plus 11 skydivers); investigators including the FAA and NTSB are looking into what happened after reports of a power loss and a stall attempt to reach the highway. Community & Education: Southern Boone Learning Garden’s “Dine in the Dirt” fundraiser drew local officials to support hands-on agriculture learning for students, including composting and worm-pulling lessons. Local Culture & Sports: England’s World Cup camp in Kansas City faced a tornado warning soon after meeting young fans, with players ordered indoors as severe weather hit the metro. Public Safety & Extremism: A Kansas man accused of being part of the “Red Legs” violent extremist group was charged with possessing explosives, with alleged plans targeting government and military-linked sites.

Health Care Costs & Transparency: The Trump administration has warned more than 500 hospitals to post clear pricing or face penalties up to $2 million a year, pushing patients to know costs for common tests and treatments before care. World Cup Culture in Missouri: Jackson County prosecutors charged two Texas men with stealing about $18,000 in England team training gear in Kansas City, including signed jerseys and boots—another reminder that big events bring big security and community stakes. Medicaid Work Rules: Final federal rules spell out how millions of Medicaid enrollees must prove they’re working, training, volunteering, or in school to keep coverage, with states scrambling to update systems. Mid-Missouri Pride & Community Support: Columbia’s Rainbow Ride drew about 40 LGBTQ+ flag-decorated bikes to raise money for The Center Project’s emergency fund. Juneteenth in Jefferson City: The city’s Juneteenth Heritage Festival kept growing despite rain, with Caribbean food and performers reflecting the area’s Black and immigrant communities. Education Spotlight: Mid-Missouri educators were named Heart of Missouri Regional Teachers of the Year, highlighting teaching across subjects and grade levels. Rural School History: A look at how Missouri’s rural school system expanded and contracted over time, shaped by distance rules and district consolidation. Food & Local Life: Jefferson County Health Department released its latest food inspection results, with scores tied to the severity and repeat nature of violations. Sports & Entertainment Buzz: Kansas City’s World Cup hosting continues to fuel local culture—from fan-facing logistics to the broader “soccer in America” story.

Health Care Costs & Transparency: The Trump administration has warned more than 500 hospitals to post clear pricing or face penalties up to $2 million a year, pushing tougher enforcement of federal price-disclosure rules. World Cup Culture & Community: As FIFA World Cup 2026 ramps up across host cities, some restaurants—including in Kansas City—are adding 20% automatic gratuities to protect tipped workers and reduce confusion for visitors. Mid-Missouri Pride & Support: Columbia’s Rainbow Ride brought about 40 LGBTQ+ flag-decorated bikes to Peace Park, raising funds for The Center Project’s emergency support for people in crisis. Local Food & Health: Jefferson County Health Department released its latest food inspection results, with scores ranging from 71 to 100 and guidance on how violations affect ratings. Missouri Education & Daily Life: Missouri families are preparing for changes as the SAVE student loan plan ends July 1, with borrowers needing to switch to other repayment options. Faith & Community History: A profile highlights Julia Greeley, born enslaved in Hannibal, later revered for charity and devotion in Denver. Missouri Sports & Coaching: Rapha International and Ozark Christian College signed a Memorandum of Understanding focused on child protection training for future church leaders. Obituaries: Nelda (Nickie) Wall and William “Bill” Baldwin were remembered for decades of community service and family life.

Health Costs & Transparency: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals nationwide to post clear pricing or face penalties up to $2 million a year, pushing patients to know costs for common tests like blood work and imaging. World Cup Culture in Missouri: Kansas City is already seeing heavy World Cup travel, while England’s camp reportedly faced a major setback after boots and equipment were stolen from a van en route to its Missouri base. Education & Community Debate: Lee County residents questioned a school board plan to build in Alva instead of the larger Lehigh Acres, raising concerns about priorities and transparency. Local School Leadership: Jefferson City named Morgan Eye Scott as its new girls basketball coach, bringing a track record of turning programs around. Youth, Tech & Learning: Columbia students from Rock Bridge High School became national finalists in the Presidential AI Challenge with tools developed alongside police. Homeless Shelter Update: Jefferson City’s Room at the Inn is still pursuing a new shelter site after a planning commission vote against rezoning, with a City Council decision ahead. Sports & Talent: Missouri transfer Blaize Ward committed to Vanderbilt baseball, citing development-focused coaching and culture. Workforce & Care: Children’s Mercy offered early retirement to some employees as it launches a $1.7B Kansas City campus expansion.

World Cup Culture & Safety: AP reports the Trump administration has warned 500+ hospitals to post clearer pricing, while a separate AP look at World Cup security describes an unprecedented mix of federal, local, and private tech and tactics across 16 cities. Kansas City Community Life: KCI is already seeing early World Cup arrivals, and KC police are ramping up anti-human trafficking stings for the tournament. Local Sports & Pride: Jefferson City High School hires Morgan Eye Scott as its new girls basketball coach after a turnaround at Hickman. Education & Tech: Columbia’s Rock Bridge students are national Presidential AI Challenge finalists for tools developed with the Columbia Police Department. Health & Everyday Living: Missouri may have thousands living with tick-borne Alpha-gal red-meat allergy, but the state lacks tracking—one bill would change that. Housing & Homelessness: Jefferson City’s Room at the Inn is still pushing for a new shelter site after a planning vote against rezoning, with City Council deciding Aug. 3. Outdoors & Local Wonder: Missouri Department of Conservation confirms black bear sightings in Columbia. Arts & Heritage: Neosho’s Carver Birthplace Association is restoring a historic schoolhouse tied to George Washington Carver.

Healthcare Costs & Transparency: The Trump administration has warned more than 500 hospitals to post clear pricing or face penalties up to $2 million a year, pushing patients to know costs for tests like blood work and imaging before care. World Cup in Missouri: Security planners say FIFA 2026 is an “unprecedented” challenge, with federal, state, and local agencies coordinating amid war fears and worries about AI-fueled disruptions—while Kansas City watch parties wrestle with crowd-size uncertainty. Missouri Democracy Fight: Missouri courts keep rewriting ballot language as fights over direct democracy intensify, turning election wording into a major political battleground. Childcare Crunch: Missouri childcare centers report staff turnover tied to low wages and limited support, adding pressure to an already strained early education system. Local Community Life: Jefferson City’s planning commission voted against a permanent downtown homeless shelter and resource center, despite strong public support. Faith & Education: A Catholic schools superintendent in Jefferson City is set to leave for a Kansas archdiocese role, highlighting ongoing leadership shifts in Missouri’s church-run education.

Healthcare Costs & Transparency: The Trump administration is warning more than 500 hospitals to post clearer pricing or face penalties up to $2 million a year, with enforcement expected to tighten. World Cup Security & Community Life: The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to bring an “unprecedented” security load—multiple agencies, new tech, and AI-powered monitoring—while Kansas City fans are already treating matches like a cultural and even religious gathering. Education & Equity in Missouri: Columbia Public Schools named Shonda Ambers-Phillips as its new chief equity officer, tasked with improving access and closing achievement gaps. School Culture Clash: Republicans grilled Loudoun County’s superintendent over transgender policies, including questions about boys in girls’ spaces. Civic Life & Local Services: Kirksville is gearing up for a summer of community events, and Johnson County voters are getting reminders on registration deadlines for the Aug. 4 primary. Missouri Outdoors & Learning: MDC is offering a free modern cane-pole fishing class at Forest Park on June 21. Arts & Ideas: Naomi Shihab Nye is set for a “Consider This” conversation on nations and communities, with Missouri-area watch parties planned.

World Cup Security & AI: The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off next week with an unprecedented security setup across 16 cities, as federal, state, and local agencies lean on drones, robot-assisted screening, and AI cameras amid fears of disruption. Missouri Workforce & Training: Missouri’s construction labor shortage is pushing new short-term training through the University of Missouri’s Missouri Construction Pathways Initiative, aiming to move workers into high-demand construction roles faster. Local Arts & Community Events: Webster Arts Fair drew more than 10,000 visitors over the weekend at Eden Theological Seminary, with juried artists, live music, and youth-focused activities. Outdoor Life: Missouri Department of Conservation is taking applications for free mentored dove hunts at the Jay and Carolyn Henges Wetland Education and Conservation Center in St. Charles, with required orientations and limited spots. Tech & Local Economy: Montgomery County approved a tax incentive package for Google’s massive data center, using Missouri’s Chapter 100 structure and long-term personal property tax abatement. Culture Calendar (KC): Kansas City’s weekend lineup includes Brookside Patio Fest, Museum of Kansas City lawn concerts, and a Vintage Auto Show, plus more family-friendly events. Education Spotlight: UCM honored three community members with 2026 Education for Service awards, highlighting service-minded teaching and student support. Prison Tech for Incarcerated People: Missouri’s Farmington Correctional Center is among facilities using “Nova,” an AI assistant accessible through the Securus phone system for incarcerated callers.

World Cup in Missouri: Kansas City is leaning hard on community welcome, with about 3,500 volunteers set to greet fans across the metro as the tournament kicks off next week. Local Culture & Civic Life: Kirksville’s Main Street group landed a $5,000 Missouri Humanities Council grant to add history-focused programming to the 2026 Whiskey & Turkey Festival. Education & Identity Politics: A congressional hearing grilled school leaders over parental involvement, transgender inclusion, and curriculum choices, with Chicago Public Schools CEO Macquline King and others facing sharp GOP questioning. Missouri Kids Watch: A new Kids Count report says Missouri’s overall child well-being is strong, but flags gaps in health coverage and persistent reading/math struggles. Community Health Workforce: CoxHealth in Springfield celebrated more than 1,300 graduates from a paid healthcare apprenticeship pipeline. Faith & Public Square: The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage drew hundreds to Baltimore, continuing its America 250 “One Nation Under God” route. Utilities & Cost of Living: The Missouri Public Service Commission set local public hearing dates for an Evergy Missouri Metro rate case.

World Cup Security & Culture: The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off next week with an “78 Super Bowls over 39 days” scale of security across 16 U.S. host cities, as federal, state, local, and private teams lean on drones, robot-assisted screening, and AI cameras amid broader geopolitical and disruption fears. Missouri Education Watch: De Soto School District is still trimming costs through attrition as enrollment declines, while Joplin Public Schools braces for a $3 million hit from a $190 million statewide education formula shortfall. Local Arts & Community Care: Springfield Art Museum volunteers are helping revitalize historic Fassnight Creek as part of an ongoing restoration and flood-mitigation effort. School Character Programs: Rockwood schools and Ridge Meadows Elementary earned national “Promising Practices” recognition for leadership and kindness-focused character education. Human Services: Missouri DHSS marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day with a purple light-up and a Jefferson City walk. Business & Books: Independent bookstores are expanding again, with the American Booksellers Association reporting membership growth to the highest level since the late 1990s. Public Safety Tech: A court case highlights concerns about police using Flock automated license readers to track people repeatedly.

World Cup & Public Safety: An AP report says the 2026 FIFA World Cup is bringing an “78 Super Bowls over 39 days” security effort—drones, robot dogs, X-ray trucks, and AI cameras—amid war fears and disruption concerns. LGBTQ+ Visibility in KC: Kansas City Pride named Missouri Rep. Wick Thomas as Honorary Grand Marshal, spotlighting ongoing anti-trans pressure in Missouri. Juneteenth in Kansas City: JuneteenthKC and the Black Archives of Mid-America are rolling out history-focused events, including “Drop-In History: Enslavement in Missouri” and a Nelson-Atkins celebration. Local History Remembered: A Royster Memorial marker was missing for years, but a new look at William “Bill” Royster’s legacy ties Northeast Kansas City to civic and military service. Education Funding Stress: Joplin Public Schools faces a $3 million shortfall after Missouri underfunded the education formula, even as officials promise “business as usual.” Healthcare Costs: The Trump administration warned 500+ hospitals nationwide to post clearer price information or face steep penalties. Community Giving: “Battle of the Badges: Backpack Edition” is collecting new backpacks across Northeast Missouri, with a trophy for the top first-responder agency. Libraries as Lifestyle: A roundup highlights what Missouri-area public libraries may lend beyond books, from museum passes to “library of things” items.

Community Wellness: University of Missouri Extension kicks off the statewide “100 Miles, 100 Days” challenge (June 16–Sept. 24), inviting Missourians to log any kind of movement and compete by county. Food Access Policy: Missouri delays new SNAP retailer restrictions on candy and sugary drinks until Feb. 15, 2027, after grocers asked for clearer enforcement guidance. LGBTQ+ Arts in Missouri: Cinema St. Louis’ QFest returns June 12–21 at the Hi-Pointe Theatre, with a Trans Youth Art Sale in the lobby focused on safety for young artists. Local Culture & Retail: Palmetto Moon opens its first Missouri store at Tanger Outlets Branson on Aug. 29, bringing Southern-style apparel and gifts to a major tourist hub. Sports & Community: Springfield Public Schools hosts a hiring job fair for bus drivers and other support staff, aiming to keep district operations running smoothly. Film & Creative Recognition: Missouri-area screenwriter David Ezell’s “Occam’s Beard” lands as a Cannes Film Awards finalist for Best First-Time Screenwriter.

World Cup Security: The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off next week with a massive, multi-agency security push across 16 North American cities, using drones, robot dogs, X-ray trucks, and AI cameras amid fears of violence and disruption. Human Trafficking Watch: Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway launches a World Cup-focused anti-trafficking campaign in Kansas City, partnering with nonprofits and law enforcement as officials expect more activity around big crowds. Local Governance & Public Safety: Maryville City Council hears residents’ complaints about motor scooters on sidewalks and boat docking rules, with police and city leaders weighing enforcement and ordinance details. Missouri Politics: The Missouri Supreme Court rejects further changes to the August ballot language for Amendment 5, keeping the income-tax repeal/sales-tax expansion question on track. Community & Culture: Columbia names Christopher Ave as the new director of its Communications Department, bringing decades of journalism and public affairs experience to city outreach. Education & Faith: A Counseling Compact lets more states recognize out-of-state licensed counselors, while Missouri State University’s international conversation circles keep building community for students. Health & Wellness: Missouri Stream Teams invites residents to join National Rivers Month activities, from cleanups to water-quality monitoring.

World Cup Security: The 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup kicks off next week with an “unprecedented” security setup across 16 U.S., Canada, and Mexico cities, involving federal, local, and private teams plus drones, robot-dog bag checks, big X-ray trucks, and AI cameras amid broader fears about political violence and AI disruptions. Ozarks Nature: Missouri’s Department of Conservation is hosting two firefly events—one in Branson (June 20) and one in Springfield at Phelps Grove Park (June 25)—with family-friendly viewing and learning. Health Care Activism: More than 325 organizations signed an open letter backing Medicare for All, pushing for major changes to the broken health system. Missouri Education & Transit: North Nodaway schools approved two propane buses and a fueling station to cut costs and improve cold-weather reliability. Community & Faith: Springfield’s LDS Church broke ground on a new temple, while a Shenandoah church announced a free “Faith, Rock and Community” concert (June 13). Culture on the Move: Missouri State University will host the Hot Rod Power Tour on June 11, bringing 5,000 vintage cars and major campus traffic changes. Public Safety: Kansas City-area World Cup preparations are shadowed by recent violence, including a shooting near a base camp that injured nine.