Special Needs Bill passes the Education Committee in the State Senate

SPECIAL NEEDS BILL PASSES SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Bill would provide education options for students with disabilities, part of Lt. Gov. Reeves’ agenda

A bill increasing education options for students with disabilities passed the Senate Education Committee today, Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves said. Senate Bill 2695 now heads to the Senate for a vote.

“Too many students with disabilities are trapped in schools that are not meeting their needs,” Lt. Gov. Reeves said. “Their parents deserve the chance to customize education to their child when their school is not working for them.”
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Nancy Collins, R-Tupelo, moved forward during National School Choice Week, which highlights efforts around the country to give parents more choice in their children’s education.

SB 2695 would allow parents to use state funds as a scholarship to attend a school that best addresses their child’s needs. Many Mississippi schools have struggled to meet the academic needs of students with disabilities. Currently, slightly more than 20 percent of special needs students graduate from high school.

LG Tate Reeves Press Release
1/27/15