MS HB1396

Establishes the School District Recognition Program beginning in fiscal year 2017-2018 to award funding to school districts based on accountability ratings and performance improvements, funded at $100 per pupil for "A" rated districts, $75 per pupil for "B" rated districts, and $100 per pupil for districts improving at least one letter grade.

Allocates School District Recognition Program funds by specific amounts to three areas: $30 per pupil for mathematics assessments in elementary and middle schools, $30 per pupil for reading and English Language Arts assessments in elementary and middle schools, and $40 per pupil for end-of-course assessments in high school.

Requires awards to be used only for nonrecurring salary supplements to teachers and staff (not administrators), paid prospectively over the remainder of the school year and not counted as part of local supplements.

Directs the State Department of Education to use base student cost calculations and a weighted formula beginning in fiscal year 2017 to award funding points to school districts for at-risk students who demonstrate the greatest academic growth and proficiency on qualifying assessments.

Creates the School District Recognition Program Fund in the State Treasury to distribute awards by electronic funds transfer to eligible school districts based on data provided by the State Department of Education.