Missouri Learning Standards (MLS) What are they and why do they matter?

Mitchelle Wambua, Ph.D. and Courtney Vahle, Ed.D.

The Missouri Learning Standards (MLS) are pivotal for instructional planning, implementation, and assessment across the state of Missouri. In this report we describe the MLS and share a summary of grade-level and course-specific learning expectations across various subject areas. We conclude with recommendations for educators and educational policy makers.

Key Points:

• The Missouri Learning Standards provide the expectations for what proficiencies students should attain by the end of specific grade levels in certain subjects.

• The standards cover both the subject areas that are assessed through standardized state tests as well some that are not assessed.

• Within the various subject areas, the learning standards are covered repeatedly across grade levels with increased sophistication.

Please Cite As: Wambua, M., & Vahle, C. (2025). Missouri learning standards (MLS): What are they and why do they matter? Policy Research in Missouri Education, 7(24). Saint Louis University. www.primecenter.org/policy-brief-database/mls