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August 6, 2024
Thousands of Jackson Public School teachers and staff members celebrated the 2024 Convocation Ceremony inside the Mississippi Coliseum on Friday, August 2, 2024.
Themed, "It's a JPS Family Reunion," the event featured live musical performances, a dance competition, spirit awards and encouraging words.
Convocation is a moment of pride for educators and staff, passionate about making a difference in scholars' lives and eager to begin a new school year.
"This is a time when we come together to reflect on our accomplishments, display our wonderful talents, and plan for a great future for our wonderful scholars!" said Alesia White, JPS Teacher of the Year at Van Winkle Elementary School.
"We come together not just as employees, but as a family of devoted individuals who play a crucial role in shaping the future," said Sara Harper, Administrator of the Year and McWillie Elementary School Principal. "Each of us has very important responsibilities in this school district that contribute to its success."
The JPS Unity Band performed a rendition of the song, "Family Reunion," by The O'Jays with a twist and called it, "A JPS Family Reunion." The ensemble consisted of JPS music teachers and scholars.
Members included Dr. Carrie Denton, Quanda Brooks, Maurice Gibson, Regan Jackson, Catia Madison, Kurtina Maholmes, Carroll McLaughlin, Quintavious Phillips, Richard Stevens, Dowell Taylor, Larry Weems and Eddie Williams.
The Jim Hill High School Choir, under the director of Pamela Moody, performed, "Lift Every Voice and Sing."
Members include Jakaria Burks, Kionna Champion, Destiny Gaddis, Jordin Flowers, Kamora Greggs, Madison Harris, Gabriella Horton, Emmanuel Jackson, La’Robert Jackson, Catia Madison, Khalil Millsaps, Rihanna Evans, Vontrell Stewart, Kattie Sumler, Mckorie Taylor, Ricco Vance, Accompanist, Daylon Walker, Laila Williams, Sanaya Weathersby, Emily Wilson and Kenyon Wolfe.
Superintendent, Dr. Errick Greene, encouraged employees to celebrate the "bright spots," but also bear in mind, that JPS must stay committed to growth.
"We've got some work to do, and I like to think of it in this way - last year was a set-up for the come-up that we'll experience this year," said Dr. Greene. "I'm still expecting us to reach the very highest performance level there is. That's still my vision for this District, and I'm convinced we'll do it. Luckily, we've got a plan for how we'll do it, and it's all in the power of people and possibilities."
Superintendent Greene is referring to the District's new Strategic Plan, launched in May. The Power of People & Possibilities emphasizes the role of all JPS community members in realizing our goals.
The convocation highlighted the enormous impact all JPS team members have on scholars' lives and the level of dedication and commitment needed to ensure that the District runs smoothly, creating an environment where scholars can flourish.
