As the sun peeked through the clouds over Jackson, Mississippi, the Mississippi Board of Education convened on January 18, 2024, in the Central High School building. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as board members and guests gathered, some braving the remnants of winter weather to attend. The meeting commenced promptly at 10:00 AM, with a warm welcome extended to attendees from Jackson County, highlighting the community's commitment to education despite challenging travel conditions.

The session began with the approval of minutes from the previous meeting, followed by a streamlined agenda that emphasized efficiency and thorough preparation by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) staff. Board members swiftly moved through routine approvals, demonstrating a collaborative spirit as they worked through the consent agenda, which allows for multiple items to be addressed in a single motion.

One of the most significant moments of the meeting came when Jean Cook presented a prestigious recognition to Van Cleve Lower Elementary School. This school, part of the Jackson County School District, was honored as a National Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) Distinguished School for 2023. Principal Krista Sablidge and her team were acknowledged for their exceptional efforts in closing the achievement gap among student groups over consecutive years.

Located on the Gulf Coast, Van Cleve Lower Elementary serves around 670 students and has maintained an A rating since the 2018-2019 school year. Notably, during the 2022-2023 academic year, every third grader at the school met the literacy requirements mandated by the state, showcasing the effectiveness of their educational strategies. The school has also seen a remarkable decrease in the number of kindergartners scoring below reading benchmarks, dropping from 33% in the 2016-2017 school year to just 3% this year.

Principal Sablidge expressed gratitude for the recognition, attributing the school's success to the dedicated efforts of her staff and the supportive community. This acknowledgment not only celebrates the achievements of Van Cleve Lower Elementary but also serves as an inspiring example for other schools in the state striving for excellence in education.

As the meeting progressed, the board's focus on recognizing and rewarding educational achievements underscored a commitment to fostering an environment where all students can thrive. The recognition of Van Cleve Lower Elementary School stands as a beacon of hope and a model for educational success in Mississippi, leaving attendees with a sense of pride and motivation to continue improving the state's educational landscape.