Bill > HB376

This bill creates the Volunteer and Parents Incentive Program through the State Department of Education, with two main components. First, the bill provides a comprehensive definition of "at-risk students" that includes both academic challenges (such as being behind in math or reading, having low test scores, or grade retention) and social/environmental factors (like family background, social adjustment, or personal experiences of prejudice or abuse). Second, the bill requires the Department of Education to develop a "Parents' Bill of Rights" by January 1, 2026, specifically for parents of children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This publication will outline parents' rights, including attending IEP meetings, receiving evaluations, examining school records, disagreeing with decisions, ensuring their child is placed in the least restrictive educational environment, and accessing a range of special education services. School districts must provide this document to parents when a student qualifies for an IEP. The bill mandates that the document be clear, concise, and posted on the department's website, and requires periodic review to ensure it reflects current federal and state laws. The program will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies specifically to schools in Mississippi, with a focus on schools in unaccredited or provisionally accredited districts or those with a high percentage of at-risk students.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0376.xml