Bill > HB237

This bill mandates the Mississippi State Department of Education (SDE) to create a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) pilot program for high-achieving students in grades 4 through 8, primarily in Delta region school districts and also in Jasper, Clarke, and Jones Counties, starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The program aims to inspire students to pursue STEM careers by introducing them to various STEM occupations through guest speakers and employer collaborations, offering shadowing opportunities, organizing field trips to colleges to showcase STEM programs, and informing students about financial aid for higher education, all while including academic challenges. Participating students must be identified as high performers on statewide math assessments, though schools can allow students to continue in the program even if they don't meet eligibility criteria in subsequent years if they show continued interest. Schools can also provide a salary supplement to a teacher who serves as an advisor for the program. Participating school districts must submit annual reports to the SDE detailing program activities and student outcomes, which the SDE will then compile into a report for the House and Senate Education Committees, including recommendations on whether to make the program permanent statewide by December 1, 2029.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB0237.xml