MS HB230

Requires all public middle schools to provide a program (directly or in cooperation with community colleges or other school districts) to prepare students for college entrance and meet minimum baccalaureate institution requirements.

Mandates all middle schools provide career and technical education programs for students planning to enter the workforce instead of pursuing a baccalaureate degree, including occupation-specific skills, career pathway knowledge, and employability training.

Authorizes middle schools approved by the State Department of Education to offer career and technical programs in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics to receive necessary funding to operate these programs.

Provides funding eligibility for middle schools offering hands-on science, technology, engineering, or mathematics experiences with integrated academic and career/technical education curriculum including exploratory components.

Takes effect July 1, 2012.