HB 971 Summary

• Requires public school students in grades 8-11 to prepare annual interim next-step plans specifying post-secondary goals and remaining coursework; seniors must complete a final next-step plan before graduation.

• Establishes minimum 23 units for standard high school graduation including 4 English, 3 mathematics, 3 science, 3 social science, 1 physical education, 1 communication skills, 0.5 Mississippi history, and 7.5 electives.

• Creates Mississippi Diploma of Excellence requiring 24 units with more rigorous standards, including 4 mathematics units with Algebra 2 or higher (unless parent approves waiver) and 2 science units with laboratory components, effective for students entering grade 9 in 2012-2013 school year.

• Authorizes school districts to offer pre-apprenticeship programs to qualified juniors and seniors (age 16+) taught by industry instructors; programs must meet apprenticeship requirements and be provided at no cost to students.

• Exempts industry instructors from teacher licensure requirements while establishing approval processes for pre-apprenticeship providers, programs, and instructors through local school boards.