Bill > HB864

This bill modifies Mississippi's state school and school district accountability system by eliminating the previous "A" through "F" letter grade designations while maintaining a comprehensive accountability framework. The bill removes specific performance goals and detailed criteria for school and district ratings, instead directing the State Department of Education to create a single accountability system that satisfies federal requirements and shows meaningful differentiation between school districts. Key changes include maintaining the use of four-year graduation rates, incorporating a standards-based growth model, and including career-readiness assessments like ACT WorkKeys. The bill also preserves existing provisions for addressing persistently underperforming schools, including the ability to place districts into a "District of Transformation" if they consistently receive low ratings or fail to meet academic standards. The new accountability system will still track school and district performance but with more flexibility in how performance is measured and communicated. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing time for the State Board of Education to develop the new accountability framework.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0864.xml