MS HB1203

Creates the Mississippi UPSTART program, a home-based educational technology initiative using computers and Internet-based instruction to develop school readiness skills in preschool children ages 4-5 years old.

Authorizes the State Board of Education to contract with a not-for-profit organization to deliver the program, which must include computer-assisted instruction in reading, mathematics, and science, plus technical support and equipment provision for low-income families.

Requires participating school districts to provide administrative and technical support, with at least 30% of participants from low-income families and representation from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic backgrounds across urban and rural areas.

Mandates annual audits of contractor fund usage and requires the State Board of Education to report annually to the Legislature by November 30 on program participation, software usage, student performance data, and program effectiveness.

Prohibits the use of any state general funds to establish or implement the program; all funding must come from public or private sources outside the state budget.