MS SB2156

Allows local school boards in districts with "A," "B," or "C" accreditation ratings to exempt themselves from state accreditation standards not required by statute through a 60% board vote.

Exempt districts operate under the same restrictions as public charter schools and are not subject to State Board of Education rules, regulations, or policies unless locally required.

Exempt districts remain subject to civil rights, health and safety requirements, student assessment and accountability standards, and federal teacher qualification laws.

Exempt districts must comply with 25 specific state statutes covering areas including open meetings, student records, school attendance, discipline, bullying, curriculum content, and assessment testing.

No more than 25% of teachers in exempt districts may be unlicensed; teachers must have a bachelor's degree, subject-matter competency, and alternative licensure within three years; administrators must have a bachelor's degree.