Prekindergarten; require State Department of Education to create the "ABC Program" to provide instruction via Internet.
Impact
The implementation of HB 254 is expected to broaden access to early childhood education, especially for families who may not have opportunities for in-person prekindergarten learning. By utilizing internet technology, the state anticipates that more children will benefit from structured educational content delivered by qualified instructors. Additionally, the Department of Education is tasked with measuring participation rates and assessing educational outcomes, aiming to report on the program's effectiveness by January 1, 2026.
Summary
House Bill 254, titled the 'ABC Program,' aims to establish an online prekindergarten instructional program across the state of Mississippi. The bill mandates the State Department of Education to deliver daily, age-appropriate prekindergarten lessons via the Internet. These lessons will be directed by licensed prekindergarten teachers and include downloadable educational materials designed for both children and their parents. The program is set to commence in the 2024-2025 school year and will ensure that instructional sessions are available at various times throughout the day to enhance accessibility for families.
Contention
While the bill presents an innovative approach to education accessibility, it may also raise discussions regarding the adequacy of internet infrastructure in certain areas of Mississippi, which could affect the program's reach. Critics might argue that reliance on online education could disadvantage families without the necessary technological resources. Furthermore, the effectiveness of remote learning in comparison to traditional classroom settings may also be a point of contention among educators and stakeholders concerned about the quality of education received under such programs.
Video surveillance cameras; require to be installed in classrooms and certain other areas of public schools and postsecondary educational institutions.