As a mother who loves her state and is committed to its future, Sarah was proud to send her children to public school so they could experience the opportunities Mississippi schools have to offer. She believes that a robust public school system is fundamental to the state’s success. Because her youngest daughter has special needs, Sarah has also had the experience of navigating the public school system's special education services and gaining firsthand insight into the importance of providing strong support for all students. She understands the critical role of special education programs and the need for consistent, reliable funding to ensure that these services meet the needs of every child.

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But there is room for improvement. 

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Mississippi’s public school system faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. Historically, the state has struggled with low rankings in several key areas of education, including student achievement, graduation rates, and funding. According to recent reports, Mississippi ranks near the bottom in national assessments of math and reading proficiency, with many students not meeting grade-level expectations. Additionally, the state has one of the lowest per-pupil spending rates in the country, which affects the availability of resources, teacher salaries, and the overall quality of education. Many rural areas face teacher shortages, outdated facilities, and limited access to advanced courses, all of which contribute to disparities in educational outcomes.

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Despite these challenges, there are bright spots in Mississippi’s educational system. The state has seen gains in early childhood education, with a focus on improving literacy through initiatives like the Mississippi Literacy-Based Promotion Act. Recent improvements in 4th-grade reading scores, for example, show that targeted interventions can work. The state is also home to some strong public schools, particularly in districts with better funding and community involvement. However, there’s still significant room for growth across the state.

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By focusing on career readiness, Mississippi can reduce unemployment, strengthen the state’s economy, and give young people the tools they need to succeed. In addition, Increasing teacher salaries in Mississippi is a strategic initiative that aligns with our commitment to enhancing education. These are just some of the ideas that Sarah supports to improve the quality of education in Mississippi:

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1. Revise Federal Education Policies to Support State Innovations

• Proposal: Allow Mississippi greater flexibility in utilizing federal education funds to implement state-specific reforms.​

• Implementation: Waive certain federal regulations that limit state innovation, enabling Mississippi to tailor educational programs to local needs. Ensure that state reforms align with federal goals of equity and excellence.​

• Expected Impact: Customized educational strategies will address unique state challenges, leading to improved student outcomes.​

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2. Support Teacher Recruitment and Retention Initiatives

• Proposal: Provide federal grants to Mississippi for programs that recruit and retain qualified teachers, particularly in high-need areas.​

• Implementation: Fund initiatives like the Mississippi Teacher Corps, which recruits college graduates to teach in critical-need areas, offering training and financial incentives.​

• Expected Impact: A stable and qualified teaching workforce will enhance educational quality and student learning experiences. ​

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3. Increase Teacher Salaries

• Proposal: Implement a structured increase in teacher salaries to make Mississippi's compensation packages more competitive nationally, aiming to attract and retain top-tier educators.​

• Implementation:Gradually raise the starting salary for teachers with a Bachelor's degree from $41,500 to $50,000 over a five-year period. Adjust salaries for educators with advanced degrees proportionally. Introduce merit-based bonuses for teachers who demonstrate exceptional student growth and engagement, fostering a culture of excellence. Allocate funds for continuous professional development, ensuring teachers have access to the latest pedagogical strategies and subject matter expertise.​

• Expected Impact: Research indicates that higher teacher salaries are associated with increased student performance, as experienced teachers are more effective in the classroom. Competitive pay reduces turnover rates, maintaining continuity and stability in student learning. Elevated salaries position Mississippi as an attractive destination for skilled teachers, enriching the state's educational talent pool.​

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4. Revise and Diversify the Curriculum to Meet Modern Needs

• Proposal: Update the curriculum to include critical thinking, digital literacy, vocational training, and cultural awareness, preparing students for a global economy.​

• Implementation: Collaborate with educators, industry leaders, and cultural organizations to develop curriculum standards that reflect current societal and economic demands. Integrate STEM programs, arts education, and life skills training into school offerings.​

• Expected Impact: A diversified curriculum equips students with versatile skills, fosters adaptability, and enhances competitiveness in various career paths.​

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5. Promote Transparency and Accountability in Education

• Proposal: Maintain high standards of accountability to ensure that educational reforms lead to measurable improvements in student outcomes.​

• Implementation: Implement data-driven assessment tools, conduct regular audits of educational programs, and engage the public through transparent reporting on progress and challenges.​

• Expected Impact: Transparency and accountability will build public trust, facilitate continuous improvement, and ensure that educational resources are utilized effectively to benefit all students.​