MS HB354

Changes the State Board of Education's authority from discretionary ("authorized and empowered") to mandatory ("shall") to establish and conduct vocational and technical schools, classes, or courses in conjunction with public schools, agricultural high schools, or community/junior colleges.

Requires school district trustees and agricultural/community college trustees to establish vocational and technical schools with written consent of the State Board of Education, rather than making this optional.

Allows vocational and technical schools to accept land, buildings, and funds from public and private sources, charge tuition and fees, and accept donations and contributions.

Requires school boards to establish vocational apprenticeship programs in high schools where students can earn up to 8 high school units through approved work experience, which must count toward graduation requirements.

Takes effect July 1, 2017.