Deputy Superintendent Overview

Dr. William Merritt, IV
Department Overview
The responsibilities of the Deputy Superintendent are to direct and oversee the academic programs that guarantee the highest quality instruction, curriculum and assessment.
The Deputy Superintendent works in collaboration with leaders and administrators to develop and lead the implementation plan for meaningful and relevant professional development for teachers, principals, and staff.
Additionally, the Deputy Superintendent will continue developing and executing the District’s new five-year strategic plan, The Power of People & Possibilities.
Dr. Merritt directly oversees the implementation of Commitment 5: Strong Finish, the district’s effort to strengthen post-secondary readiness and success for all JPS graduates.
The Deputy Superintendent oversees the following departments:
Enrollment Strategy and Data Management
The Office of Enrollment Strategy and Data Systems provides services to schools, families, former graduates and other authorized institutions on registration and enrollment processes, student records, transcript requests, and completion verification for colleges/universities and employment agencies.
Grant Management
The JPS Grant Management Office provides guidance and support to district teachers, staff members, departments, and schools in securing grant resources that support the JPS Strategic Plan.
Talent Management and Management
The Office of Talent Management and Development is dedicated to meeting the needs of our employees and to recruiting quality personnel in a caring, ethical, and professional manner to provide students a quality education that will enable them to compete in a global economy.
Information Technology Services
Information Technology Services provides reliable, secure, and modern technology that empowers scholars, educators, and staff to thrive in today’s world.
Police Department and Emergency Management
The Jackson Public Schools Police Department is dedicated to fostering a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for all scholars, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Public Engagement
The Office of Public Engagement strives to improve stakeholder satisfaction and support by providing consistent, timely and accurate information while making the most of opportunities for effective, two-way communication with our community as we aim to increase student achievement.
Research and Evaluation
Research and Evaluation provides accurate, relevant, and concise feedback, to support strategic, data-driven decision-making, district-wide.
