MS HB513

Reenacts sections 37-28-1 through 37-28-19 of Mississippi Code relating to charter schools, which had been repealed on July 1, 2009.

Authorizes conversion charter schools in public schools and local school districts rated at the three lowest levels by the State Board of Education, with no limit on the number of charters granted to underperforming schools or districts.

Requires petitions for charter school status to be approved by the school board and agreed to by a majority of faculty and parents, and must include a school improvement plan and academic or vocational performance criteria.

Limits pilot program conversion charters to up to six schools statewide (one per congressional district and at least one in the Delta region), with four-year initial terms that may be renewed for up to four years with majority faculty and parent approval.

Requires underperforming schools converted to charter status to be placed under the Mississippi Recovery School District until they meet state accreditation standards, after which they may renew their charter or revert to unchartered status.

Mandates conversion school employees receive the same benefits as other district employees and requires annual legislative reports on charter school status and performance.