MS HB1563

Creates the School Business Officers Mentorship Program administered jointly by the Mississippi Department of Education and Mississippi Association of School Business Officials to support professional development and knowledge exchange among school business officials.

Requires mentors to have minimum 5 years experience as a school business official (including 3 years in current position) and commit at least 24 hours annually; mentees must be new officials or those transitioning to new roles.

Program operates on annual cycle from July 1 through June 30, matching mentees with mentors based on technical needs, project orientation, district size, and geographic location, with participation free of charge.

Mandates Mississippi Association of School Business Officials conduct annual workshops for all mentors to define program objectives, review mentor responsibilities, and provide related information deemed necessary by the Department.

Requires program participants to complete evaluations and the Department to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature detailing participation, outcomes, and improvement recommendations; effective July 1, 2025.