MS HB220

Creates a 2021 Vocational Education and Technology Camp as a pilot program for grades 9-12 students in Lee and Monroe Counties, subject to legislative appropriation of funding.

Camp will be held on the Tupelo campus of Itawamba Community College and provide one-week hands-on instruction in HVAC, carpentry, plumbing, electricity, masonry, and other vocational trades.

Participation is free for students; parent/guardian written authorization required; selection criteria must be nondiscriminatory and cannot exclude based on race, color, age, disability, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or prior academic achievement.

College must advertise the camp to all Lee and Monroe County high schools at least six months before scheduled start date; students responsible for their own transportation.

If legislature appropriates funds, Itawamba Community College must submit a report by January 1, 2022 to the House and Senate Education Committees with participant data, career impact assessment, and recommendation on whether to expand the program statewide.