The Missouri legislature holds a special distinction: It is home to more current and former members of the Missouri National Education Association (MNEA) and National Education Association (NEA) than any other labor union.
These legislators bring decades of classroom experience, educational leadership, and a passion for public service to their roles. Here’s a look at the MNEA/NEA-affiliated members currently shaping Missouri’s legislative agenda.
Senate
Maggie Nurrenbern (District 17)
Senator Maggie Nurrenbern, a former educator and union member, has made education policy a cornerstone of her legislative work. After teaching Spanish, journalism, and English as a Second Language at schools in Kansas City, she represented North Kansas City High School as an NEA building representative. Her hands-on experience with students and her commitment to equity inform her advocacy for Missouri’s schools
House of Representatives
Stephanie Boykin (District 92)
A retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and former teacher, Representative Stephanie Boykin brings a lifetime of service to her legislative role. Having been an MNEA member during her teaching career, she is deeply committed to ensuring Missouri’s students and educators have the resources they need to succeed.
Chris Brown (District 16)
With 32 years of teaching experience, including Advanced Placement Government and U.S. History, Representative Chris Brown knows firsthand the importance of empowering educators. A former VFW Teacher of the Year, Brown continues to prioritize education policy while also running a real estate business with his family.
Elizabeth Fuchs (District 80)
A former lobbyist and public policy manager, Representative Elizabeth Fuchs brings a wealth of advocacy experience to her legislative role. Her work in education policy and her leadership in promoting equality make her a strong voice for Missouri’s schools.
Martin Jacobs (District 38)
With a distinguished 44-year career as a teacher, principal, and coach, Representative Martin Jacobs brings extensive leadership experience to the Missouri legislature. A former Administrator of the Year (2019), Jacobs has a deep understanding of what it takes to create supportive environments where both educators and students can thrive. His commitment to fostering academic success and community engagement defines his legislative priorities.
Raychel Proudie (District 73)
Representative Raychel Proudie is a certified classroom teacher and counselor with experience in urban and rural schools. Her expertise in PreK-12 policy and her dedication to equity and inclusion guide her efforts to strengthen Missouri’s education system.
Kem Smith (District 68)
Representative Kem Smith, a lifelong St. Louis County resident, combines her experience as a veteran educator with a doctorate in education to advocate for fairness and opportunity in schools. Her strong connection to her community drives her legislative work.
Kathy Steinhoff (District 45)
Representative Kathy Steinhoff, a retired math teacher with 34 years in Columbia Public Schools, brings a lifetime of education expertise to the legislature. A National Board Certified Teacher and recipient of the NEA’s Teaching Excellence Award, Steinhoff is a proud advocate for educators. She previously served as president of Columbia MNEA and remains active in her community through volunteer work with Moms Demand Action.
Connie Steinmetz (District 87)
After a nearly 40-year career teaching kindergarten through second grade in the Clayton and Hazelwood school districts, Representative Connie Steinmetz has taken her passion for nurturing young minds to the legislature. A former local union president in Hazelwood, she remains committed to supporting educators and their students.
These legislators bring valuable experience and a deep understanding of education to the Missouri legislature. Their backgrounds as educators and advocates allow them to shape policies that address the needs of schools, students, and communities across the state. Their contributions highlight the critical role educators play in public service and policymaking.