MS HB196

Requires all public middle schools to provide programs (directly or through partnerships with community colleges or other districts) to prepare students for college entrance and meet minimum baccalaureate degree admission requirements.

Mandates middle schools offer programs for students pursuing career or work opportunities, including occupation-specific skills, multiple career pathway knowledge, employability skills, and preparation for industry certification or postsecondary education.

Provides funding to middle schools that receive State Department of Education approval to offer career and technical programs in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics with integrated academic and career-technical education components.

Establishes that middle schools offering hands-on science, technology, engineering, or mathematics experiences with integrated curricula qualify for career and technical education funding.

Effective date is July 1, 2019.