Bill > SB2287

This bill, titled the Mississippi Charter Schools Act of 2013, brings forward and makes available for amendment various sections of Mississippi Code of 1972 related to charter schools, which are public schools operating under a charter contract with an authorizer, offering an alternative educational model with increased autonomy in exchange for accountability for student results. The Act establishes the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board (MS-CAB) as the sole entity responsible for authorizing charter schools, outlining its powers and duties including reviewing applications, entering into charter contracts, and overseeing school performance. It details the application process, requiring comprehensive plans for academics, operations, and finances, and sets forth criteria for approving or denying applications, with a limit of fifteen new charter schools per fiscal year. The bill also addresses student enrollment, mandating non-discrimination and outlining lottery procedures when capacity is exceeded, while allowing for enrollment preferences for certain groups. Furthermore, it defines performance frameworks for evaluating charter schools, outlines processes for renewal, non-renewal, and revocation of charters, and establishes protocols for school closures. The Act also specifies funding mechanisms for charter schools, including state and local contributions, and outlines financial audit requirements and public disclosure of funding sources. Finally, it addresses facility use, teacher qualifications, criminal history record checks for staff, and the eligibility of charter schools for interscholastic programs, while clarifying that charter schools are subject to most civil rights, health, and safety requirements applicable to traditional public schools.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/SB/SB2287.xml