Bill > SB2613

This bill establishes the Office of the Ombudsman for Parental Assistance within the Mississippi State Department of Education, creating a new role designed to support parents and improve educational accountability. The ombudsman will be appointed by the State Superintendent of Education and must have either a master's degree with eight years of relevant experience or a bachelor's degree with nine years of experience, including four years in an administrative or supervisory role. The ombudsman's key responsibilities include investigating parent complaints, mediating disputes between parents and schools, tracking systemic educational issues, providing information about educational policies and regulations, and preparing an annual report for the Governor and Legislature. The office will have the authority to access school records, conduct investigations, and propose policy recommendations, while maintaining strict confidentiality of communications and records. The ombudsman can seek additional funding through grants and gifts, provided these do not compromise the office's independence. The bill specifies that the office will be operational from July 1, 2025, with the Department of Education required to develop implementing regulations by December 31, 2025. This new position aims to improve communication, transparency, and parental engagement in the Mississippi education system.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/SB/SB2613.xml