MS SB2695

Establishes a five-year pilot program creating Education Scholarship Accounts (ESAs) for parents of students with active Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), beginning with 500 students in 2015-2016 and expanding by 500 students annually, each funded at $6,500 for the first year and adjusted thereafter based on state base student cost changes.

Allows parents to use ESA funds for tuition at accredited nonpublic schools, tutoring, curriculum, online learning, special education therapies, postsecondary institution costs, standardized tests, limited school supplies ($50 annually), and computer hardware/software when educationally necessary.

Requires participating parents to provide organized educational programs covering reading, grammar, mathematics, social studies, and science; document student disability every three years; withdraw students from public schools; and not simultaneously participate in other state scholarship programs for special needs students.

Mandates the Joint Legislative Committee on Performance Evaluation and Expenditure Review (PEER) prepare biennial reports beginning in 2018 assessing funding sufficiency, student and parental satisfaction, academic performance, and fiscal impact to the state and school districts.

Limits state regulation of eligible nonpublic schools and educational service providers, prohibiting requirements to alter creed, admission policies, or curriculum; requires schools to conduct criminal background checks, comply with health and safety laws, and provide nondiscrimination assurances.