MS HB1243

Establishes an enrollment options program allowing Mississippi students to attend any public school in the state without paying tuition, regardless of residence.

Requires parents to submit applications to receiving schools on forms provided by the State Department of Education, with deadlines that may be waived by mutual agreement.

Permits school districts to deny enrollment only for lack of space (with priority to resident students), lack of appropriate programs, unmet eligibility criteria, desegregation plan compliance, or student expulsion.

Implements a lottery system for selecting nonresident students when school capacity is insufficient, with enrollment preferences for continuing students and siblings.

Restricts grades 10-12 transfer students from participating in interscholastic sports during their first year unless that sport was unavailable in their home district.

Requires receiving districts to pay home districts the cost per student and establishes a "Public School Choice Scholarship Fund" for students whose receiving school costs exceed home school costs.

Sunsets on July 1, 2022, and takes effect January 1, 2012.