MS HB919

Establishes the Hope and Opportunity Pathways through Education (HOPE) Program to be implemented and administered by the State Board of Education with the goal of re-enrolling high school dropouts in programs leading to diplomas.

Awards grants to school districts to establish instructional programs and services for re-enrolling dropouts up to age 21, including year-round, evening, summer, online, vocational, and community college courses.

Requires school districts to develop State Board-approved HOPE Plans involving school districts, public community colleges, and community organizations; districts may operate programs directly or contract with not-for-profit entities.

Distributes HOPE Program funding based on the proportion of dropouts in each school district relative to total state dropouts; eligible students may receive adequate education program funds if meeting district graduation requirements.

Mandates comprehensive programs with small student populations (70-100 students), experienced staff with professional development, full-time mentors, performance-based goals, support services, and technology learning centers; programs must report enrollment, attendance, graduation, and post-graduation data to the State Board.