MS SB2709

Amends Mississippi's compulsory school attendance law to require kindergarten-age children (those turning 5 years old on or before August 1) to enroll in and attend public or nonpublic schools.

Changes the age requirement from six years old to five years old and shifts the cutoff date from September 1 to August 1 for determining compulsory school age.

Maintains existing exemptions for children who are physically, mentally or emotionally incapable of attending school, enrolled in special education programs, or in legitimate home instruction programs.

Requires parents, guardians, or custodians to complete a certificate of enrollment for kindergarten-age children and submit it to the school attendance officer by September 15 each year.

Takes effect July 1, 2018, and applies the same attendance reporting requirements and enforcement procedures (including penalties for noncompliance) to kindergarten-age children as currently apply to older school-age children.