MS HB1619

Amends Section 37-31-13 of Mississippi Code to clarify that vocational agriculture instructors may be compensated during designated days and weeks between academic years and between academic quarters in school districts using an extended school year calendar.

Allows state appropriations to fund extended contracts for vocational agriculture education and related vocational services that contribute to economic development, subject to annual State Board of Education approval.

Requires school district boards of trustees to determine whether proposed services contribute to their area's economic development and to apply to the Division of Vocational and Technical Education for available state funds.

Eligible instructors must supervise and instruct students in agricultural or vocational experience programs, provide instruction to farmers and agribusinessmen, supervise youth group members in leadership training, or deliver other vocational-related services established by the state that support economic development.

Effective date: July 1, 2025.