MS SB2089

Defines "trade books" as books written and published for the general public that may introduce or expand topics through fictional or nonfiction accounts, as opposed to textbooks that cover topics in a prescribed manner.

Allows local school boards to petition the State Board of Education for permission to purchase trade books with state textbook funds if a teacher can demonstrate the books engage student interest and offer opportunities for vocabulary development, literacy development, or motivation.

Requires trade books purchased under this provision to be considered only until the next regular adoption cycle in the applicable subject area, after which they must be formally approved or dropped from the state textbook list.

Permits school districts to continue purchasing trade books with non-state funds (federal or local) even if they are not formally adopted by the state.

Effective date: July 1, 2014.