Jackson

JPS - Smith Elementary Celebrate College Spirit Week

College Spirit Week in Jackson Public Schools helped students envision themselves as high school graduates, bound for college. Click here for article and pictures from Smith Elementary School.

JPS hosts August 28 Parent Conference: Destination Graduation

Jackson Public Schools will hold its 8th annual Districtwide Parent Conference: Destination Graduation on Thursday, August 28, 2008, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Callaway High School. For more information, click here.


Jackson Public Schools Dropout Prevention Follow-up Meeting  

The Jackson Public School District is actively supporting state goals regarding dropout prevention.  The district went beyond the standard state requirement to hold a follow-up after the Adult Summit with a luncheon that was held on April 8, 2008, at the JSU eCenter on Raymond Road. Approximately 150 community stakeholders including parents, community constituents, business leaders and school personnel “Got on the Bus” and demonstrated a commitment to “Stay on the Bus” with JPS to significantly decrease the dropout rate.

 

During the luncheon, participants reviewed graduation and dropout trends from 1995-2007 and the procedures used by MDE to calculate the rates. Also, procedures used in developing the proposed dropout plan were discussed.  These included an analysis of the profile of a typical JPS dropout, histories of students who dropped out, composition of the dropout prevention committee, results of the needs assessment and a review of proposed initiatives. 

Dr. Earl Watkins, superintendent of schools, presented a comprehensive profile of the district which included an analysis of the population, the mission, vision and beliefs of JPS.  He presented details of the great dividends reaped from our hard work which included:     

  • Graduation rate is up 20% in five years.Average daily attendance has been above 93% for the past 5 years.More than 1,400 students are enrolled in AP classes.Eighty-seven percent (87%) of our schools achieved a level 3 or above rating on AYP standards.
  • AdvancED Accreditation Commission awarded JPS the distinction as a quality school system.


Participants gave input on strategies they would like to see implemented to remove barriers that keep our students from succeeding. In addition, they listed desired accountability requirements from each aspect of the district.Future meetings will be held to allow the community to review all proposed initiatives and make commitments to assist in implementing them.

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