MS HB608

Establishes a State Longitudinal Data System (SLDS) to track education and student outcomes from birth through workforce entry using data from seven state agencies including the Mississippi Department of Education, higher education boards, workforce investment board, and human services departments.

System will enable policymakers to access longitudinal data to support objectives such as improving employment outcomes, meeting business skill demands, developing early warning systems for graduation rates, and identifying effective teachers and programs.

Creates an SLDS Governing Board composed of representatives from each participating agency, with the State Workforce Investment Board chairman serving as board chairman beginning July 1, 2015, and subsequent two-year elected terms thereafter.

Board shall develop rules, regulations, and standards governing system operations including privacy, confidentiality, and security of data in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, and may contract with third parties for system management.

System will be based on existing technology at Mississippi State University's National Strategic Planning and Analysis Research Center, with the State Data Center providing hosting services until the Governing Board approves an alternative entity; takes effect July 1, 2013.