House Bill 197 Summary

• Establishes the "Dream Makers Program" beginning in the 2017-2018 school year, an after-school program for grades 7-8 designed to stimulate interest in science, mathematics, and health care professions, particularly among underserved and underrepresented populations.

• Requires a two-year program with eligibility limited to students maintaining a 2.5+ GPA, recommended by science or math teachers, with consistent attendance and positive character, plus parental written consent.

• Program must include dissection activities, vital signs instruction, health care professional panels, interaction with University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) medical students, advisor-planned activities, and an end-of-year awards banquet.

• Establishes the Dream Makers Trust Fund in the State Treasury to provide financial support for start-up and operational costs, funded through federal grants, legislative appropriations, and public or private donations.

• Requires each school district to designate a program advisor and regional coordinator, with UMMC designating a staff project coordinator to oversee implementation and require monthly progress reports.