MS SB2686

Requires parents or guardians to certify that eligible students have been accepted into an eligible school qualified to provide services for the student's disability or special education needs, or services addressing the student's IEP, in order to participate in the ESA program.

Limits new ESA program enrollment to 500 additional students each year, with applications reviewed on a rolling first-come, first-served basis until 50% capacity is reached, after which a waiting list is maintained in chronological order.

Requires eligible schools to administer pre-assessment and post-assessment testing using either a nationally standardized norm-referenced achievement test or current state board-approved screener, and to report graduation rates and Advanced Placement examination performance to the state.

Requires eligible schools to certify to the Department of Education that they can provide services for participating students' disabilities or IEPs before receiving ESA reimbursement, with failure to comply resulting in ineligibility for the following year.

Extends the repeal date of the Equal Opportunity for Students with Special Needs Act from July 1, 2024 to July 1, 2028.