Walters forms state advisory committee in anticipation of U.S. Department of Education phase-out

Policy Memo 18-03: Creation of the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Advisory Committee for the Federal Programs Phase-Out

Mississippi education officials are proactively working to respond to a funding change from the U.S. Department of Education (USED). See Mississippi Department of Education – Press Release (Press Release).

Committee Purpose

The purpose of the advisory committee is to provide input and make recommendations to the State Superintendent of Education on how to best transition Mississippi's education system to a sustainable funding model in anticipation of the USED phase-out of federal funding.

The committee will be responsible for developing a plan to address the following issues:

• The impact of the USED funding phase-out on Mississippi's education system.
• Strategies to mitigate the loss of USED funding.
• The development of a sustainable funding model for Mississippi's education system.
• Recommendations for legislation and policy changes to support the transition to a sustainable funding model.

The committee will be composed of a diverse group of stakeholders, including educators, parents, business leaders, and policymakers. The committee will be chaired by Dr. Carey Wright, State Superintendent of Education.

The advisory committee will meet regularly to develop its recommendations. The committee's final report is due to the State Superintendent of Education by December 31, 2023.

The $500,000 price tag to fund the advisory committee will be easily offset by the savings gleaned from the committee recommendations.

Conclusion

The Mississippi Department of Education is committed to working with the USED to ensure a smooth transition to a sustainable funding model. The advisory committee will play a vital role in developing a plan that will help Mississippi's education system continue to provide high-quality education for all students.