MS HB1428

Authorizes the State Board of Education to consolidate two or more failing school districts in the same geographical region into a regional super school district, based on recommendations from the Mississippi Recovery School District.

Requires that school districts be classified as failing for two consecutive school years before consolidation can be considered, and mandates the State Board to evaluate proximity, enrollment, facilities, resources, and stakeholder input when making consolidation decisions.

Establishes that the regional super school district shall have an elected five-member school board chosen in a special election at the next November election, with a newly appointed superintendent subject to State Board approval.

Transfers all property and assets from abolished school districts to the new regional super school district; former superintendents are ineligible to serve as the new superintendent.

Allows the State Board to consolidate additional failing school districts into an existing regional super school district in the same manner, and requires the State Board to promulgate rules and regulations to facilitate these consolidations.