House Bill 792

AN ACT TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP A COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM AND IMPLEMENT COURSES IN LIFE SKILLS TO BE INCLUDED IN THE PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION CURRICULUM FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES 10 THROUGH 12; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

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

SECTION 1. (1) In addition to the curriculum otherwise required by law or the State Board of Education to be taught in the public schools of this state, the board shall develop a comprehensive curriculum and implement courses in life skills for all students in Grades 10 through Grades 12. In addition to meeting the competencies and objectives established by the board, the life skills course may include, but is not limited to, the following areas of instruction:

(a) Nutrition programs, including cooking;

(b) Automobile maintenance;

(d) First aid;

(e) Etiquette, social interaction and interpersonal skills;

(f) Professional development, including applying and

interviewing for jobs, resume writing and college readiness;

(g) Basic financial skills, including understanding credit scores and the path to home ownership;

(h) Career pathways, including college, trade schools,

vocational programs and licensing and certification programs;

(i) State and local government;

(j) Self-discipline and time management; and

(k) Basics of mental health, including stress-management techniques.

(2) School districts shall make life skills instruction available to students during Grades 10 through 12, and may determine when each area of instruction listed in subsection (1) of this section may be presented to students. The instruction may be offered to students attending school in person, virtually or a hybrid of both.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2022.