MS HB394

Creates a five-year pilot program establishing Education Scholarship Accounts (ESAs) for parents of eligible students with special needs, starting July 1, 2015, with phased enrollment of 500 students per year.

Funds each ESA at $6,500 for 2015-2016 school year, adjusted annually by the base student cost formula, allowing use for tuition, tutors, curriculum, therapy services, online learning, postsecondary education, and other qualifying educational expenses.

Requires parents to provide organized educational programs covering reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science; document student disability every three years; and withdraw students from public school with acknowledgment they forfeit free appropriate public education (FAPE) entitlements.

Establishes oversight mechanisms including ESA card issuance, random audits, fraud reporting systems, and consequences for misuse including card suspension, repayment requirements, and removal from program after three violations within three years.

Directs PEER to conduct biannual evaluations starting in 2018 assessing program funding adequacy, student and parental satisfaction, academic performance, and fiscal impact to the state, with results due to Legislature by December 31, 2018.