MS HB909

Requires the State Department of Education and Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning to establish the "Dream Makers Program" starting in the 2011-2012 academic year for 7th and 8th grade students to stimulate interest in science, mathematics, and health care professions.

Program must be conducted as an after-school program lasting two years, with students eligible if they maintain a 2.5 GPA, are recommended by science or math teachers, have consistent attendance, display positive character, and express interest in health care; parental written consent required.

Program components include dissection of specimens, blood pressure and temperature instruction, health care professional panels, interaction with University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) medical students, advisor-planned activities, and an end-of-year awards banquet.

Each school district must designate a program advisor to recruit and mentor students, provide career workshops and leadership development, and file monthly progress reports to a UMMC project coordinator; districts also designate a regional coordinator to assist with scheduling and recruiting local health professionals.

Establishes the "Dream Makers Trust Fund" in the State Treasury to provide financial support for start-up and operational costs, funded through federal grants, legislative appropriations, and private donations, administered jointly by the State Board of Education and Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning.