MS SB2791

Creates Mississippi UPSTART, a home-based educational technology program using computers and Internet to develop school readiness skills in reading, mathematics, and science for preschool children ages 4-5.

Authorizes the State Board of Education to contract with a not-for-profit organization to deliver the program, with an initial one-year contract that may be extended or expanded subject to funding availability.

Requires participating school districts to provide administrative and technical support; mandates at least 30% of participating children come from low-income families; and requires geographic, socioeconomic, and ethnic diversity among participants.

Provides loan computers and free Internet service to low-income families unable to afford equipment; requires annual audits of contractor fund usage; and mandates annual legislative reports by November 30 on program participation, usage frequency, student assessments, and evaluation results.

Prohibits use of state general funds to establish or implement the program; all funding must come from public or private sources other than state appropriations.