MS SB2064

Establishes the Distance Learning Collaborative Act effective July 1, 2016, creating a voluntary grant program administered by the Mississippi Department of Education to fund distance learning programs in school districts and approved collaborative entities.

Authorizes grants to be used for acquiring computer hardware/software, audio/video equipment, instructional programming, technical assistance, and student tuition costs for distance learning participation.

Requires distance learning programs to meet State Board of Education standards including course approval, state standards alignment, instructor professional development, curriculum standards, and accountability measures for student achievement and course completion rates.

Permits appropriations on a phased-in basis beginning fiscal year 2016-2017, allows receipt of private funding, reserves maximum 5% of appropriation for administrative costs, and requires annual reports to Legislature and Governor with independent PEER Committee evaluations.

Amends Section 37-15-38 to make Distance Learning Collaborative Program courses fully eligible for dual high school and postsecondary credit programs, and requires schools to provide students information about online learning programs that earn college credit.