MS HB918

Requires all public middle schools to provide college preparatory programs, either directly or in cooperation with community colleges or other school districts, to help students meet minimum college entrance requirements

Mandates middle schools offer career and technical education programs for students pursuing non-baccalaureate career paths, teaching occupation-specific skills, employability skills, and knowledge of multiple careers within a chosen pathway

Programs must prepare students for industry certification or provide pathways to postsecondary education and training opportunities

Middle schools receiving State Department of Education approval for STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) career and technical programs qualify for state funding to operate these programs

Effective date of July 1, 2011