Mississippi House Bill HB1413

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Hope Program; establish and develop system to re-enroll high school dropouts in programs leading to a high school diploma.

Impact

The implementation of HB1413 is expected to have significant positive impacts on educational attainment in Mississippi, particularly for individuals aged 21 and under. The program will prioritize creating accessible pathways for students to re-enter the educational system, improve dropout rates, and enhance the overall quality of education. School districts will be encouraged to develop tailored HOPE Plans, which must be approved by the State Board of Education, ensuring that funding is distributed effectively based on the need in different districts.

Summary

House Bill 1413 establishes the Hope and Opportunity Pathways through Education (HOPE) Program, which aims to create a comprehensive system for re-enrolling high school dropouts so they can earn their diplomas. This program, administered by the State Department of Education, focuses on providing grants to school districts to develop instructional programs and services for dropouts. The HOPE Program allows for a flexible approach by enabling school districts to either operate their own programs or partner with non-profit entities to provide necessary educational support.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB1413 arise from the allocation of grants and program oversight. Critics are concerned about ensuring that funds are used effectively and that the programs developed meet the diverse needs of students. Additionally, the requirement for school districts to collaborate with community colleges and non-profit organizations may raise questions about the administration and implementation of these partnerships. Ensuring the success of these collaborations is critical for the program to achieve its intended goals.