MS HB1101

Creates Mississippi UPSTART, a home-based educational technology program using computers and internet to develop school readiness skills in children ages 4-5 who have not yet entered kindergarten

Requires the State Board of Education to contract with a not-for-profit organization to deliver computer-assisted instruction in reading, mathematics, and science to preschool children in their homes

Mandates that at least 30% of participating children come from low-income families (below 200% of federal poverty guideline), with free computer equipment and internet service provided to families who cannot afford them

Requires annual audits of contractor funds by the State Auditor and annual reports to the Legislature by November 30 on program participation, software usage, obstacles encountered, and student performance outcomes

Prohibits use of any state general funds to establish or implement the program; funding must come from private or other public sources, effective July 1, 2012