MS SB2883

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 regular or special education public school programs.

Allows speech-language pathologists, educational audiologists, and special/early childhood educators to serve as lead teachers/instructors for university-based programs (UBP) under IDEA-Part C and IDEA-Part B processes, with communication specialists serving as lead instructors when communication is a primary area of concern.

Requires the State Department of Education to calculate IDEA-Part B and preschool allocations based on the number of students placed in UBPs by local school districts and directly distribute all state funds to the university or college.

Permits collaborative agreements between local school districts and universities only if the university charges an amount exceeding the state and federal funds allocated per special education student; determines placement justification through each child's IEP with local school district input.

Takes effect July 1, 2022.