House Bill 795 Summary

• Renames Section 37-161-3 as the "Equal Access to Education Act" and revises Mississippi's virtual public school program to expand digital learning options statewide.

• Establishes two pilot programs beginning in 2022-2023 school year: a Digital Learning in the Classroom Pilot Program (2-5 school districts) and a Virtual Public School Pilot Program (3 slots available for full-time virtual schools).

• Requires the State Board of Education to streamline the Mississippi Online Course Application process and develop a system for approving digital learning providers with pre-approved course lists.

• Mandates that pilot virtual public school sponsors adopt enrollment policies including application timelines, out-of-district student acceptance procedures, parental hearing opportunities, and student engagement/removal processes.

• Requires all virtual school teachers to hold Mississippi teaching licenses and ensures students receive necessary technology (computers, internet access) and instructional materials at no cost to families, subject to appropriation.