Mississippi touts education gains, advances legislation to expand school choice

Mississippi has achieved historic education results, according to state officials. The state has also experienced unprecedented economic growth, they said. Officials credit policy reforms and conservative strategies for the progress.

House Bill 2 aims to give families more control over their children’s education. Supporters say the legislation builds on the state’s successes, including leading the nation in reading gains on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). This transformation has been dubbed the Mississippi Miracle.

Advocates note that HB 2 establishes Magnolia Student Accounts, allowing families to access private schools, specialized instruction, therapies, and other educational services. The bill aims to ensure all Mississippi families, regardless of income or ZIP code, have real choices in education.

The legislation also seeks to remove barriers to public school options while preserving local school boards’ decision-making authority over student transfers. Supporters emphasize that education policy should be judged by results, including whether students graduate prepared for careers, college, or military service.

HB 2 also focuses on expanding financial literacy and career-focused learning, aiming to prepare students for the workforce. State officials say these reforms are a long-term investment in Mississippi’s economic future and continue the momentum of recent educational successes.

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