MS HB53

Requires State Board of Education to base annual accreditation ratings solely on data from the immediately preceding school year, effective with the 2017-2018 school year.

Mandates the Office of the State Auditor to conduct independent accreditation assessments of all schools and school districts separate from the State Board of Education, beginning with the 2016-2017 school year.

Requires State Auditor to publish separate designations for student achievement scores and growth rates showing positive or negative shifts in performance compared to previous years and age groups.

Mandates the State Department of Education submit any proposed changes to school accountability standards, along with estimated economic impact statements, to legislative appropriations and education committees and the Legislative Budget Office one year before implementation.

Takes effect July 1, 2016.