School Leaders' Think Tank

As educational leaders in Mississippi, we recognize the importance of clarifying the roles and responsibilities within our education system, particularly concerning the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). It’s essential to address misconceptions and highlight the autonomy our schools possess in shaping curricula and instructional methods.

Clarifying the Role of the U.S. Department of Education

The DOE primarily serves as a supportive entity, providing funding, enforcing federal education laws, and ensuring equal access to education. It does not dictate specific curricula or teaching methods. Instead, these decisions are made at the state and local levels, allowing for educational approaches that reflect the unique needs and values of our communities. This structure ensures that the majority of schools have the autonomy to select curricula, with teachers actively involved in reviewing and revising content to best serve their students.​Parents+1AP News+1

Addressing Concerns About Federal Funding and Assessments

Mississippi receives approximately 23.2% of its public school funding from federal sources, the highest proportion among all states. While these funds come with certain requirements, such as end-of-year (EOY) assessments to measure student achievement, the selection and implementation of these assessments remain under state control. The State of Mississippi, not the federal government, determines the appropriate assessments to evaluate student performance.

Mississippi’s Educational Renaissance

Mississippi’s recent achievements in education are nothing short of remarkable:

• National Recognition: The Education Week Quality Counts report ranked Mississippi No. 2 in the nation for improvement in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Notably, in 2021, Mississippi was also ranked No. 2 for closing the 4th-grade reading achievement gap between students from low-income families and their wealthier peers. ​Mississippi Department of Education
• NAEP Performance: Our fourth graders have experienced the highest growth in the nation in reading and math between 2013 and 2024. For the first time, they have outscored the national average in reading, showcasing the effectiveness of our localized educational strategies. ​Mississippi First
• Sustained Excellence: According to newly released results from the 2023-24 Mississippi Academic Assessment Program (MAAP), students have now achieved record results in mathematics, English Language Arts, and science, reaching historic all-time highs. ​Office of Governor Tate Reeves

Looking Ahead with Confidence

The prospect of increased state control over education should not be a cause for concern but rather a beacon of opportunity. Mississippi has consistently risen to the occasion, proving that our educators are among the nation’s best, our students are resilient and capable, and our communities are deeply invested in the success of our schools.

Let us embrace this shift with faith and optimism, knowing that with greater autonomy comes the ability to craft an educational experience that is both enriching and equitable for all.

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

Together, let’s take that step towards a brighter future for Mississippi’s students and schools.