Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

Mississippi House Bill HB262

Introduced
1/17/24  
Refer
1/17/24  

Caption

Mathematic and science instruction; enhance through new middle school programs.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will mandate that all public middle schools provide tailored programs that either directly support students' educational aspirations for college or offer alternative pathways for those intending to enter the workforce directly after high school. This dual approach ensures that students who wish to pursue a baccalaureate degree will have academic support, while also offering practical skills training for those entering various trades or careers. Such initiatives are expected to bridge the gap between education and employment, making students more competitive in the job market.

Summary

House Bill 262 aims to enhance mathematics and science instruction in Mississippi's public middle schools by developing and adopting new learning standards. The bill emphasizes the importance of improving career and technical education programs that focus on high-demand fields. It recognizes that middle schools can effectively serve students by offering programs rich in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning opportunities. The goal is to prepare all students for advanced coursework in high school and postsecondary education, ensuring they are ready for future academic and career challenges.

Contention

While many educational advocates support the objectives of HB 262, there is potential for contention regarding the allocation of resources and the implementation of new standards. Some may argue that existing educational frameworks need more time or resources for adaptation. Additionally, disparities in funding among schools could lead to inconsistencies in how these new programs are instituted across different districts. Nonetheless, the focus on career and technical education is likely to gain bipartisan support, as it aligns with broader workforce development goals.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS HB1415

Mathematic and science instruction; enhance through new middle school programs.

MS HB1427

Mathematics and science; require public middle schools to provide program to enhance instruction in.

MS HB345

Statewide assessment program; discontinue all standardized tests except for single test in Grades 3, 8 and 11.

MS HB597

Vocational and home economics; require curriculum for all middle, high and alternative school students.

MS HB228

Mississippi History and United States Government; require to be included in curriculum for all students in Grades 9-12.

MS HB475

End-of-course subject area tests; discontinue and require ACT test for all students.

MS HB1428

Early Commitment to College Program; establish in schools and districts assigned an "F" accountability rating.

MS HB354

U.S. History end-of-course subject area test; remove requirement for the purpose of graduation.

MS HB474

End-of-course assessments; remove mandatory requirement of passing score as a condition of graduation.

MS SB2586

Computer science curriculum; clarify terminology to specify who may provide instruction in.

Similar Bills

AL SB171

Alabama Numeracy Act, established for K-5 public school students, Elementary Mathematics Task force and Postsecondary Mathematics Task Forces created, Office of Mathematics Improvement created, use of assessments, intervention services, summer programs, and mathematics coaches provided, use of Common Core State Standards in K-12 schools terminated and prohibited

MS HB1626

Mathematics Proficiency and Intervention Act; establish to provide intensive multitiered system of supports for students in kindergarten through Grade 3.

AK SB197

Mathematics Instruction

KY HB162

AN ACT relating to mathematics education and making an appropriation therefor.

CA AB2565

School employees: professional development: mathematics and science.

AZ HB2609

Advanced mathematics courses; student enrollment

NM SB235

School Math Changes

NC H875

DPI to Redesign Math Instruction