MS SB2166

Requires all school district superintendents to be appointed by local school boards starting January 1, 2016, replacing the elected county superintendent system.

Permits counties to retain elected county superintendents if voters approve a referendum before January 1, 2015, triggered by a petition signed by at least 20% of registered electors or 1,500 electors (whichever is less).

Establishes referendum procedures including publication requirements (at least 5 days per week for 3 consecutive weeks in newspapers with 18-point type), scheduling for the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November 2014, and a simple majority vote requirement.

Requires all superintendent candidates to hold a valid administrator's license and have at least 4 years of classroom or administrative experience.

Repeals existing sections governing the elective superintendent system and previous referendum provisions effective January 1, 2016, with the act taking effect July 1, 2014.