Newside High School in the Prentice County School District has been recognized as a National Distinguished School for 2023, a prestigious honor that highlights its exceptional academic performance. Principal Kenny Sparks represented the school at the Mississippi Board of Education meeting on February 15, 2024, where the board celebrated the school's achievements.

Over the past two years, Newside High School has shown remarkable improvement, raising its overall rating from a B to a higher status, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. Notably, the school’s English II students ranked second in the state for proficiency in the 2022 school year. Additionally, the graduation rate soared from 77% to an impressive 92%, while the college and career readiness rate jumped from 36% to 83%, marking it as the third highest in Mississippi.

The school's success is attributed to a collaborative effort involving parents, students, faculty, and administrators, all of whom maintain high expectations for learning and achievement. This recognition not only honors the hard work of the Newside community but also sets a benchmark for educational excellence in the state. The board's acknowledgment of Newside High School serves as an inspiration for other schools aiming to enhance student performance and outcomes.