MS HB1417

State Department of Education must annually determine by May 1 a uniform percentage of adequate education program funds that all school districts must allocate to direct classroom instruction for the next fiscal year.

Department shall calculate the uniform percentage using financial data from the five highest-performing school districts as identified by current state assessment results under the state accreditation system.

"Direct classroom instruction" includes salaries of classroom teachers spending at least 60% of school day in instruction, assistant teacher salaries, and instructional supplies including computers and technology used in classrooms.

"Direct classroom instruction" excludes professional development, curriculum development, library services, student support services (counseling, nurses, health services, attendance), school administration, food services, transportation, facility maintenance, and school security.

School districts may voluntarily allocate a higher percentage of adequate education program funds to direct classroom instruction than the established uniform percentage, effective July 1, 2014.