Mississippi High School Dropout Prevention Act of 2026; create.

HB 189, the "Mississippi High School Dropout Prevention Act of 2026," requires the State Department of Education to work with school districts having the lowest graduation rates and develop targeted interventions. Key provisions include early support for students failing Algebra I, alternative programs (like dual enrollment), expanded access to advanced courses, and data collection on factors like truancy and student demographics. The bill also restricts students aged 17+ from withdrawing from school without written agreements, documented reasons (e.g., financial hardship or illness), and warnings about reduced future earnings. The bill died in committee and was never enacted.