During the recent Mississippi Board of Education meeting on March 7, 2024, a highlight was the recognition of a group of students from North Panola School District for their innovative initiative aimed at combating bullying and peer pressure. The team, led by Superintendent Chad Spence and CTE Director Anterior Ballantine, presented their project, "Peer No Pressure," which was developed as part of a national contest focused on preventing targeted violence and hate.

The students, who traveled to Washington D.C. for the final round of competition, created a program designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for students aged 12 to 18. Through peer-led discussions, engaging skits, and mentorship, "Peer No Pressure" aims to foster empathy and create positive relationships among students, ultimately reducing instances of bullying and peer pressure. The initiative received funding to further develop and scale its impact within the community.

In addition to this commendable achievement, State Superintendent Dr. Robert McClelland provided updates on various initiatives and activities since the last board meeting. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between school districts and child protective services, emphasizing ongoing efforts to improve communication and support for students in need.

Dr. McClelland also reported on the recent Mississippi School Safety Summit, which brought together various organizations to discuss strategies for enhancing school safety. The summit featured insights from a parent of a victim of the Parkland school shooting, underscoring the importance of learning from past tragedies to ensure the safety of students.

Looking ahead, the board is exploring potential partnerships for free tutoring services through varsity tutors, which could provide additional academic support for students across the state. This initiative aims to continue the momentum of educational support that has been available through ESSER funds.

The meeting underscored the Board's commitment to fostering a safe and supportive educational environment while addressing the pressing issues of bullying and academic support in Mississippi schools. As these initiatives progress, they hold the promise of making a significant positive impact on the lives of students throughout the state.