MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Education; Appropriations

By: Representative Flaggs

AN ACT TO REQUIRE THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP A MENTORING PROGRAM UNDER WHICH LOCAL PROFESSIONALS VOLUNTEER TO MENTOR TO STUDENTS ON A ONE-ON-ONE BASIS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. (1) The State Department of Education shall develop a mentoring program for the purpose of helping to promote confidence and self-esteem in youth. Under the program, a school district may arrange for professionals within the local community to volunteer to act as mentors to students.

(2) The teachers and principal in a school shall select students for participation in the mentoring program. Priority shall be given to those students considered to be at risk.

(3) Each professional participating in the program shall be assigned to act as the mentor for one (1) student for the school year. The school district shall allow for mentors to meet weekly with the students at the school throughout the school year.

(4) The goals and objectives of a professional participating in the mentoring program shall include the following:

(a) To develop an ongoing relationship with the student and to provide positive attention, support and inspiration to the student;

(b) On an academic level, to encourage the student by assisting with class work and test preparations and by conferring with the student's teachers;

(c) To reinforce the importance of academics to the student by praising him or her for classroom accomplishments and by serving as personal proof to the student that an education can lead to a better life;

(d) To encourage the student on a personal level through guidance and counseling as a caring and thoughtful adult who listens as a friend and nurtures the student's interests and talents; and

(e) To encourage proper behavior by the student, consistent with state and federal law, school rules and other sources of authority.

(5) Subject to the availability of appropriations, the State Department of Education shall allocate funds to those school districts participating in the mentoring program to help defray any costs incurred in association with the program.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 1999.