MS HB357

Creates the Mississippi Initiative for Rural Turnaround Leadership pilot program within the State Department of Education to improve leadership in chronically low and underperforming rural school districts.

Allows school principals and licensed teachers in rural school districts to apply for the program to increase capacity in evidence-based practices for struggling schools.

Requires the State Board of Education to develop and implement policies including eligibility criteria, application processes, selection procedures, online and site-based training components, micro-credentials for demonstrated abilities, and research documentation of program impact.

Appropriates $150,000 annually beginning in the 2019-2020 school year for program implementation and support.

Requires the State Board of Education to submit a report to the Legislature by January 1, 2022, evaluating program effectiveness and recommending whether to expand it.