Bill > HB26

This bill amends Mississippi's Elementary Schools Assistant Teacher Program to provide an additional salary supplement of $1,500 annually for assistant teachers working in school districts rated "C", "D", or "F" under the state's accountability system. The bill establishes a minimum annual salary of $17,000 for assistant teachers starting in the 2022-2023 school year and ensures that this supplemental $1,500 will continue to be paid even if the school district's accountability rating improves in subsequent years. The legislation maintains the existing program's core purpose of supporting early childhood education by providing assistant teachers in kindergarten through third-grade classrooms who assist licensed teachers with instruction. The salary supplement aims to provide additional financial support and incentives for assistant teachers working in lower-performing school districts, potentially helping to attract and retain qualified educational support staff in these areas. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving school districts time to prepare for the new salary provisions.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0026.xml