AN ACT TO REQUIRE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF STATE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM KNOWN AS THE "DREAM MAKERS PROGRAM" FOR PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS IN GRADES 7 AND 8; TO PROVIDE THAT THE PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM WILL BE TO STIMULATE INTEREST IN SCIENCE, MATHEMATICS AND HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONS; TO REQUIRE THE PROGRAM TO BE CONDUCTED AS AN AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM; TO REQUIRE THE PROGRAM TO BE A TWO-YEAR COURSE OF STUDY; TO PRESCRIBE THE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION IN AND THE COMPONENTS TO BE INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM; TO PRESCRIBE ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPANTS; TO REQUIRE LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO DESIGNATE A PROGRAM ADVISOR RESPONSIBLE FOR PERFORMING THE NECESSARY SERVICES TO FACILITATE ACTIVITIES OF THE PROGRAM; TO REQUIRE EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT TO DESIGNATE A REGIONAL COORDINATOR TO ASSIST THE ADVISOR IN MEETING GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES; TO REQUIRE THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER TO DESIGNATE A STAFF MEMBER TO ACT AS PROJECT COORDINATOR BETWEEN THE MEDICAL CENTER AND THE ADVISOR; TO ESTABLISH THE DREAM MAKERS TRUST FUND IN THE STATE TREASURY TO PROVIDE SUPPORT TO LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND SCHOOLS FOR START-UP COSTS AND COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH IMPLEMENTING AND OPERATING THE PROGRAM; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
Impact
The implementation of HB165 is expected to have significant implications for educational practices in Mississippi. By introducing the Dream Makers Program, local school districts will be required to designate a program advisor and establish a structured support system, which includes a regional coordinator from designated institutions such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The creation of the 'Dream Makers Trust Fund' will provide necessary financial backing for the program's launch and subsequent operations, emphasizing a collaborative effort between educational institutions and local communities to enhance learning opportunities for students.
Summary
House Bill 165 aims to establish a program known as the 'Dream Makers Program' specifically for public school students in grades 7 and 8. This program is intended to stimulate interest in the science, mathematics, and healthcare professions among younger students, particularly focusing on underserved and underrepresented populations. The program will operate as an after-school initiative, providing a structured two-year course of study designed to enhance students' knowledge and engagement with health-related careers. The legislation signifies a proactive approach by the Mississippi Legislature to address the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the state by fostering education from an early age.
Contention
Concerns may arise regarding the eligibility requirements and the potential exclusivity of the program. For students to participate, they must maintain a minimum GPA and be recommended by teachers, which could limit access for those who may benefit from the program but do not meet these standards. The structured nature of the program, while beneficial in maintaining educational rigor, might also be critiqued for potentially glossing over the individual needs of students, particularly those from different educational backgrounds or with varying levels of support. The effectiveness of the program will require ongoing assessment to ensure it meets its goals of increasing awareness and interest in health professions.