MS HB1428

Schools and school districts with an "F" accountability rating must be designated as "College Opportunity Zones" and offer all students in grades 6-9 the opportunity to sign a "Save Me a Spot in College" pledge.

Students signing the pledge commit to meeting graduation requirements, enrolling in college preparatory coursework, achieving proficiency in math and reading, completing financial aid applications by March 2 of senior year, and applying to college or community college within 12 months of graduation.

Students who complete the pledge receive a fee waiver for two or more years of enrollment at a Mississippi public community, junior college, or state institution of higher learning if they maintain financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

The State Department of Education must develop the pledge, create informational letters and materials, coordinate with higher education institutions, and establish methods for schools to track and report participant outcome data.

Program provisions expire July 1, 2032, with the State Department of Education required to submit a status report to the Legislature by November 1, 2030, including participation numbers and outcome data.