Jackson Public Schools
It was a morning filled with gratitude, reflection, and a shared sense of purpose as Jackson Public Schools honored its community partners during the 2025–2026 Highlight Awards Celebration.
At the heart of the event were the Anniversary Awards, recognizing school adopters and partners who have stood with JPS schools year after year. Some partnerships have lasted decades, a powerful reminder that when a community commits to its children, the impact can span generations.
Jackson Mayor John Horhn shared a moment of reflection, wondering where he might be if not for teachers who cared enough to pour into him. The message stuck because it’s the kind of impact you don’t always see right away, but it lasts.
|
|
|
|
“These partnerships are the foundation of our success,” said Superintendent Dr. Errick L. Greene. “When we link arms, we multiply our impact. When we move together, we transform communities.”
From 5-year milestones to an incredible 45-year partnership, each honoree represents consistency, trust, and a deep belief in the potential of JPS scholars. These are the people and organizations who show up, not just once, but again and again, investing their time, resources, and energy into schools across the district.
Partners in Education Director Thea Faulkner said it best in her message to supporters: this work is about more than recognition. It is about the collective power of a community choosing to stand together for its children.
“Each partner plays a vital role,” Faulkner shared. “Whether it’s mentorship, volunteering, financial support, or simply showing up when it matters most, your impact is both seen and deeply valued.”
And that impact is real.
Behind every recognized partnership are students who have gained mentors, teachers who have received support, and schools that have been strengthened by consistent community involvement. For parents, these partnerships represent an extended village, people who are helping create opportunities and support systems for their children every day.
Here are the 2025-26 JPS Anniversary Award Winners:
| 45 Years | 25 Years | 20 Years |
|---|---|---|
 Green Elementary School and MINACT, INC. |
 Pecan Park Elementary and National Coalition of 100 Black Women Central MS Chapter |
 Pecan Park Elementary and Koinonia Baptist Church Jackson |
| 15 Years | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 Capital City Alternative School and Jackson MS Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. |
 Isable Elementary School and Walmart Vision Center (South Jackson) |
 Spann Elementary and Raising Cane's #30 |
 Kirksey Middle School and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Alpha Epsilon Lambda Chapter) |
| 10 Years | |
|---|---|
 Isable Elementary and Metro Jackson Community Prevention Coalition and JSU Metro. |
 Blackburn Laboratory Middle and Jackson State University Department of Community Engagement |
| 5 Years | |
|---|---|
 Clausell Elementary School and Fairfield Missionary Baptist Church |
 North Jackson Elementary and Aldersgate United Methodist Church |
| Rising Award |
|---|
 Bridging The Gap Outreach Ministries |
JPS is grateful for its generous sponsors that made this event possible: Rising Event Venues, Jackson Area Federal Credit Union, Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, Keesler Federal Credit Union, Marion Counseling Services, PLLC., Story Financial Partners, Community Bank, 100 Black Men of Jackson, MS, Elim's Art Concepts and Framing Designs, The Yard Milkshake Bar, and the Juanita Sims Doty Foundation.
Each Highlight Awards also serves as an open invitation for anyone who wants to lend their support. JPS continues to welcome businesses, faith-based organizations, and individuals who want to make a difference. Whether it’s volunteering a few hours, supporting classroom needs, or becoming a school partner, every contribution helps move scholars forward. If you would like to partner with JPS, email Partners in Education Director, Thea Faulkner.