Mississippi State School Superintendent Carey Wright visited the Newton County School District to congratulate its students, faculty and staff for being one of 31 school districts for receiving an A rating last month.
Wright said during her visit to Newton County Elementary School recognized the team effort she saw throughout the school district, not only among students, teachers and administrators, but also throughout the entire community.
“You (the students) are changing Mississippi history,” Wright said. “Our state used to be last in every category of education in the nation, but now, you have changed that. The national eye is on Mississippi. They’re looking to us to see what we are doing.”
Wright said she is pleased with the growth shown around the state. Fewer schools received an F rating this year, while the number of A districts rose from 19 to 31.
Newton County School District hosted Wright for one stop on her Celebration of Excellence Tour. Part of the reason for her trip is to celebrate that growth and achievement.
“Student achievement is clearly on the rise, and I want to personally congratulate everyone in these school districts on their hard work and dedication to student learning. I look forward to visiting school districts each year, and the fact that I have so many on this year’s schedule speaks to the quality of education that our students are receiving. As schools across the state improve, our students reap the rewards of an education that better prepares them to achieve their goals,” Wright said.
From 2017-2018 to 2018-2019, 46 school districts improved letter grade. She added that proficiency is growing throughout the state, while school districts are offering more advanced placement classes and dual enrollment where students may have as much as a year’s worth of credit hours prior to entering college.
“Mississippi schools and districts are achieving at higher levels each year, and their grades demonstrate how well they are serving the children in their classrooms,” Wright said. “I am extremely proud of our students and their families and every teacher, staff member, and leader who work hard every day in our schools and districts across the state. Together, families, communities, and educators are preparing students to be successful in college, the workforce, and life.”
Principal Jason Roberson said he was excited to host the event.
“This is a testament to the hard work of the teachers and the students,” Roberson said. “We appreciate Dr. Wright coming to Newton County to help us celebrate our achievements.”
