MS HB1098

Increases the minimum annual salary for assistant teachers employed in kindergarten and grades 1-3 from $12,500.00 to $16,500.00 for the 2016-2017 school year and beyond.

Requires the State Board of Education to implement additional salary increases tied to General Fund Revenue Estimate Growth exceeding 5% in fiscal year 2006, at a rate of 1% across-the-board per each 1% revenue growth above the 5% threshold.

Maintains existing provisions that no assistant teacher shall be paid less than the prior school year and prohibits dismissal of assistant teachers solely to hire licensed teachers using this allotment.

Allows school districts to exempt themselves from training and evaluation requirements if they meet the highest accreditation standards as defined by the State Board of Education.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.