MS SB2358

Amends Section 37-21-51 of Mississippi Code to require the Legislature to fund the Early Learning Collaborative Act of 2013 for voluntary prekindergarten programs.

Changes funding language from "not more than" to "not less than" specified amounts: Phase 1 requires at least $8,000,000 annually for approximately 3,500 children; Phase 2 requires at least $16,000,000 for approximately 7,000 children; Phase 3 requires at least $33,950,000 for approximately 15,000 children.

Establishes program requirements including research-based curricula aligned with comprehensive early learning standards, teacher qualifications per Section 37-21-3, minimum 15 hours annual professional development, and teacher-to-child ratios of 1:10 with maximum 20 children per classroom.

Requires early learning collaboratives to match state funds on a 1:1 basis using local taxes, federal funds, parent tuition, philanthropic contributions, or in-kind donations.

Provides funding per student at $2,150 for full-day programs and $1,075 for half-day programs, with the State Department of Education reserving no more than 5% of annual appropriations for administrative costs.