MS HB1036

Expands the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship program to include students in Grades 1 through 12, previously limited to Grade 6.

Allows participation by any nonpublic schools accredited by the state, SACS, or accredited nonpublic schools in adjacent state counties with approximately 928,000 inhabitants (targeting a specific county in Louisiana).

Requires school districts to perform comprehensive dyslexia evaluations if a student fails the dyslexia screener or upon parent/legal guardian request, and mandates acceptance of evaluations conducted by licensed professionals.

Removes requirements for participating schools to work with the State Board of Education on school calendar, curriculum development, and instructional materials, granting schools greater autonomy.

Requires each participating nonpublic school to have financial records audited annually by either the State Auditor or a private accounting firm, and prohibits schools from being required to alter their traditional practices or policies to accept participating students.