MS SB2616

Updates statutory language throughout education code sections to replace references to "Mississippi Adequate Education Program" with "total funding formula" to reflect current funding structure.

Expands career and technical education (CTE) course multiplier funding eligibility to include seventh and eighth grade students in addition to ninth through twelfth grade students, with a 10% weight applied to students enrolled in CTE courses.

Allows retired teachers with at least 25 years of creditable service (as of July 1, 2024) or 30 years of service to be rehired in critical shortage areas, with compensation up to 125% of the standard salary schedule, and requires school districts to pay 50% of compensation to the Public Employees' Retirement System.

Modifies student enrollment calculation methodology for funding formula purposes, effective fiscal year 2026, by using months two and three enrollment from the preceding school year rather than calculating percentage changes over three prior years.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.