MS HB980

Authorizes school districts to collaborate with local community or junior colleges to establish a Summer Youth Training Employment Program for rising sophomore students (those who completed 9th grade).

Requires programs to include three mandatory components: soft skills training (time management, teamwork, communication, conflict resolution), personal living skills (job search, applications, interviews, financial responsibility), and education/academics guidance (career assessment, vocational exposure, college preparation, financial aid information).

Awards students who complete the program with a certificate of completion and permits districts to offer stipends if funding is available.

Encourages school districts to seek funding from public and private sources to cover program costs and student stipends, and authorizes acceptance of grants or gifts for program purposes.

Takes effect July 1, 2021.