Education Department prepares to launch new educator portal in April

The Mississippi Licensure Commission meeting on March 7, 2025, focused on significant updates regarding the launch of a new accreditation portal and the upcoming Elevate Teachers Conference. The meeting highlighted the importance of testing the new application features before the official launch, which is scheduled for April 2025.

Commission members discussed the involvement of various stakeholders, including educator preparation providers and candidates, who will test the application to ensure its functionality. Additionally, workforce specialists placed in each congressional district will utilize the system as a tracking tool to assist with recruitment efforts.

Communication about the new portal has been ongoing since 2021, with plans to inform local educational agencies and teachers through newsletters and direct correspondence. The commission emphasized the need for widespread awareness to ensure that all educators are informed about the new system.

The Elevate Teachers Conference, aimed at supporting teacher retention, will be offered at no cost to participants. The conference is designed specifically for teachers, providing opportunities for continuing education credits. While details regarding the location and registration are still being finalized, the commission expects to share this information in the coming weeks.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to enhancing educational resources and support for teachers in Mississippi, with a focus on effective communication and engagement with all stakeholders involved.