MS HB881

Authorizes state-supported universities and colleges to provide educational instruction and special education services to students ages 3-21 with significant developmental disabilities, complex communication needs, or significant language/learning deficits who cannot be appropriately served in public school regular or special education programs.

Qualifies speech-language pathologists, educational audiologists, and special and early childhood educators to serve as lead teachers in university-based programs (UBPs) after completing instructional licensure requirements for MAEP special education teacher unit funding.

Requires UBPs to submit all reports and data to the State Department of Education on the same schedule and manner as local educational agencies and to develop collaborative agreements with LEAs describing services and required funds.

Directs the State Department of Education to calculate IDEA-Part B and preschool allocations for each local education agency and distribute state funds for transportation, extended school year, and teacher unit allocations directly to universities or colleges hosting UBPs.

Effective July 1, 2022.