Optimizing for Equity

JPS (Jackson Public School) is committed to hiring additional staff to support the receiving school’s administration in developing a positive climate and culture with the receiving students and staff.  Also, the District will implement strategies that will support an environment conducive to teaching and learning, reflective of our Core Value of a Positive and Respectful Culture.

Based on our annual attrition rate, we expect the optimization plan to have minimal impact on teachers and staff.

The optimization plan may impact class loads at some schools, however, in most cases, our classrooms will not be at allowable capacity based on accreditation standards. The nuances are being considered with the school closure process, along with needed rezoning efforts.  

Tailored to the unique needs of each affected school, the District is committed to offering comprehensive support and implementing effective strategies. This will enable scholars to not only adapt but also flourish within their respective educational environments.

Based on the needs of each impacted school, the District will provide the schools with the support and strategies needed for scholars to continue to thrive in their respective educational environment. This will entail the review of behavior and other relevant data to determine the needs of the school.

While charter schools are permitted to operate in accordance with Mississippi state regulations, we encourage citizens to engage with their legislators to express any concerns they may have regarding the performance and accountability of charter schools. Our commitment is to excel academically and position JPS as the preferred public school district for the citizens of Jackson.

Yes, we have garnered interest from various organizations that are keen on acquiring or managing our school buildings with a focus on ensuring they contribute to and sustain community development. Additionally, we have created a dedicated webpage to promote and showcase the available properties for sale or lease."

1. Will JPS generate funding from the utilization of these buildings? If so, how will it be utilized? No, JPS will not generate funding from the utilization of these buildings. Instead, individuals interested in owning, leasing, or operating our school buildings must submit a comprehensive plan along with evidence demonstrating their financial capability to undertake these responsibilities.
    
2. Will plans be in place prior to the demolition of buildings?
   Yes, plans will be established before the demolition of buildings. The demolition of closed school buildings is a component of the Optimization plan. Following approval by the school board, we will assess and identify schools for consideration based on their condition. It is our commitment to inform the community well in advance of the demolition process.

The maintenance of school buildings and their surrounding areas will be the responsibility of each respective property owner or lessee who acquires them from Jackson Public Schools.

We currently have ninth grade academies operating at various JPS high schools.

We must adhere to the laws mandated by the state of Mississippi, which grant charter schools the first right of refusal for school district buildings. As per Mississippi regulations, a charter school is afforded the opportunity to purchase or lease a closed public school facility or property at or below fair market value, should the school district decide to sell or lease such assets. Additionally, in the case of a successful conversion charter school application, the local school district owning the conversion charter school's facility is obligated to extend an offer to lease or sell the building to the conversion charter school at or below fair market value.

As we undertake the consolidation of schools, we recognize the significance of promoting a seamless integration of diverse communities within a single building. Our objective is to facilitate a positive and smooth transition that honors and celebrates the distinct identities of each community involved. To address any potential conflicts, our handbook contains specific policies that govern such situations, and we are committed to addressing them directly and decisively. Additionally, we are actively engaged in various initiatives aimed at supporting young people in making positive choices, underscoring our dedication to fostering a harmonious and inclusive school environment.

Yes, the Optimization Plan encompasses adjustments to our central office staffing to align with the decrease in student enrollment and the corresponding reduction in school staff resulting from school closures.

As a member of the school community, we empathize with the concerns and emotions that may arise when a school closure is proposed. The decision to close a school is never easy, and it profoundly impacts students, parents, teachers, and the broader community. It is our commitment to ensure that the decision-making process is transparent, inclusive, and that all stakeholders have an opportunity to voice their thoughts and concerns. Our goal is to work collaboratively to explore alternative solutions, mitigate the impact on the affected individuals, and uphold the best interests of the entire school community during this challenging time.

The potential demolition of Wingfield High School or any other school within our district is a significant consideration, and we understand the deep ties between a community and its schools. Such a decision could have various impacts on the community, including the loss of a central gathering place, the disruption of established traditions, and the potential change in the neighborhood's character.

Yes, the closures and consolidations of schools will generate additional revenue, enabling JPS to broaden access to our Special Programs and expand academic offerings district-wide.

Yes, we do anticipate a rise in enrollment at Green Elementary if it undergoes a transformation into a competitive arts-based academic program.

1. If so, where will the additional students be coming from?
   
   Admission would be open to all students who meet the requirements.
    
2. Will students from other school zones be able to participate in the arts program at Green Elementary?
   
   This has not been determined but will be given consideration.
    
3. Will there be a cut off number of students for the arts program at Green Elementary?
   
   Similar to any academic program, enrollment in a possible arts program at Green Elementary would be based on the availability of adequate staffing.
    
4. Will there be equity between school zones of students who want to attend the Green Elementary arts program?
   
   We would implement fair and transparent enrollment processes, considering various factors to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for students across different school zones.

We will adhere to the laws mandated by the state of Mississippi, which grant charter schools the first right of refusal for school district buildings. As per Mississippi regulations, a charter school is afforded the opportunity to purchase or lease a closed public school facility or property at or below fair market value, should the school district decide to sell or lease such assets. Additionally, in the case of a successful conversion charter school application, the local school district owning the conversion charter school's facility is obligated to extend an offer to lease or sell the building to the conversion charter school at or below fair market value.

We will factor in this consideration while planning for the relaunch of the newly renovated Bailey APAC Middle School. 

If school closures are implemented, we will undergo a reconfiguration of our school zones. Once the plan is approved, we will inform our families about the designated schools their children will need to attend.

We have considered the construction of new school buildings, subject to the availability of funding. However, it’s important to acknowledge that this process will require time and may not immediately address our existing issues of declining enrollment and the financial burden associated with maintaining numerous school buildings.

The decision to focus on school closures in South Jackson is rooted in the evidence-driven Optimization Plan, which draws upon comprehensive data and research. This data highlights factors such as declining enrollment, the substantial costs linked to restoring school buildings, the necessity for staffing stabilization, the drive to enhance and innovate schools and programs, the goal of boosting competitiveness in academics, athletics, and the arts, the strategy to increase Title 1 funds per school, and the effort to decrease building-related costs through the sale, lease, or demolition of surplus properties.

We understand the concerns about the timing of the announcement, and we empathize with the impact it may have on teachers and the learning community. First, we needed to research and collect the data to support such a recommendation. By sharing this information early in the year, we aim to provide ample time for open dialogue, engagement, and collaboration with teachers, parents, and the broader learning community. This approach allows us to work together to explore potential solutions, address concerns, and ensure a shared understanding as we navigate these proposed changes.

We recognize that the proposal to close and consolidate schools may create uncertainty for our teachers. To address this, we are committed to providing transparent communication throughout the process. Additionally, we will offer professional development opportunities, mentorship programs, and support networks to help teachers navigate this period of change. Our goal is to foster a collaborative and positive environment, acknowledging the dedication of our teachers and their crucial role in maintaining a successful school despite the uncertainties.

The decision to close schools is part of a comprehensive plan aimed at optimizing resources, enhancing educational opportunities, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Efforts will be made to showcase the vibrant community, diverse programs, and extracurricular activities that make Jackson an appealing destination for students and families.

Given construction timelines, there will likely be a two-year phased-in approach to the full implementation of the Optimizing for Equity plan. For example, our contractors at Bailey APAC Middle School indicate that the planned renovations and construction should be complete by September 1, 2024. As of November 10, the Bailey project is 13% complete. With school starting in early August, the Bailey building will not be ready in time and will continue to be co-located with Northwest IB Middle School for the 2024-2025 school year. 

The contract construction completion date for Bailey APAC is September 1, 2024.