MS HB1500

Requires each school district to adopt a policy prohibiting promotion to the next grade level for students who fail to master basic reading skills at their current grade level.

Students may not be promoted regardless of test scores or performance in other academic areas unless they demonstrate reading ability at their grade level.

School districts must administer reading assessments during the final quarter of the school year to students not yet identified as reading at or above grade level, with each district determining assessment methods.

Students with individualized education programs (IEPs) that include reading skill elements are exempt from promotion restrictions.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.