MS SB2683

Mandates all local school boards develop and implement a comprehensive character education program for grades K-12 beginning in the 2024-2025 school year (previously optional).

Requires character education programs to focus on 24 specific character traits including courage, patriotism, citizenship, honesty, fairness, respect for law, kindness, cooperation, self-control, diligence, generosity, loyalty, and perseverance.

Prohibits schools from defining or teaching character traits in ways that promote conduct violating state or federal law, and requires definitions to align with founding documents (U.S. Constitution, Mississippi Constitution of 1890, Declaration of Independence).

Limits student assessment of character education to classroom material only; prohibits evaluating whether students actually demonstrate specific character traits in their own lives.

Requires the State Board of Education to review school district character education programs for compliance within 60 days and submit an annual report to the Legislature.