House Bill 968 Summary

• Amends Section 37-151-5 of the Mississippi Code to formally define the term "at-risk pupil" for purposes of the Mississippi Adequate Education Program (MAEP).

• Defines "at-risk pupil" as a compulsory-school-age child with increased probability of school failure and dropping out due to risk factors including poverty, single-parent family status, prior grade retention, below-grade-level educational attainment, and failure to meet promotion or graduation requirements.

• Adds children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder as a qualifying category for "at-risk pupil" status under the MAEP.

• Defines "autism spectrum disorder" as a neurological disorder affecting normal brain functions, typically manifested by impairments in communication and social interaction, as well as restrictive, repetitive and stereotyped behaviors.

• Effective date: July 1, 2014.