MS SB2610

Establishes a statewide framework for regional early/middle college high schools located on post-secondary institution campuses that allow students to earn associate degrees or up to two years of transferable college credit alongside high school diplomas.

Transfers per-pupil state funding and average daily attendance payments from the Department of Education to partnering post-secondary institutions to support early/middle college high school students.

Requires post-secondary institutions to notify the State Department of Education by October 1 annually of intent to implement regional early/middle college high schools, subject to departmental approval and collaboration with the Mississippi State University Research and Curriculum Unit.

Permits open enrollment for eighth-grade students in the geographical area served by the post-secondary institution with selection by lottery if capacity is insufficient, and allows admitted students to transfer from their zoned districts.

Prohibits tuition charges for non-career and technical dual credit courses, requires nondiscriminatory admission practices, ensures transportation planning, and subjects schools to state assessment and accountability standards applicable to traditional public schools.