MS HB447

Establishes a six-week nonresidential summer program called the "Health Careers Academy" at the University of Mississippi Medical Center beginning in the 2018-2019 school year for grades 9-12 public school students to stimulate interest in health care professions, science, mathematics, and language arts.

Requires students to meet eligibility criteria including a 2.25 minimum GPA, teacher recommendation, consistent attendance, positive character, Mississippi residency, and proof of health insurance or Medicaid.

Academy must provide full-day instruction (8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday-Friday) including classes, ACT preparation, hands-on health activities, CPR certification, and interaction with medical professionals and students.

Students completing the academy receive a stipend not to exceed $1,000 and must complete research projects judged by UMMC faculty.

Establishes the Health Careers Academy Trust Fund in the state treasury, funded by legislative appropriations and grants, to support start-up and operating costs for local school districts and UMMC; effective July 1, 2018.