MS HB966

Requires all public middle schools to provide programs helping students meet minimum college entrance requirements, either directly or in cooperation with community colleges or other school districts

Mandates middle schools offer career and technical programs for students planning to pursue work opportunities rather than four-year college degrees, focusing on employability skills, occupation-specific knowledge, and industry certification preparation

Authorizes funding for middle schools that receive State Department of Education approval to provide STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) career and technical programs

Middle schools offering hands-on STEM experiences with integrated academic and career/technical curriculum qualify for career and technical education funding

Effective date: July 1, 2021