Jackson Public Schools address transportation communication issues and summer program plans

Transportation issues took center stage at the Jackson Public School District Board Meeting on May 6, 2025, as parents voiced their frustrations over inadequate communication regarding bus operations. A concerned parent highlighted the ongoing problems with the VersaTran app, which is intended to provide real-time updates on bus changes and driver assignments. Despite the investment in this technology, the parent lamented that notifications are often lacking, particularly for the bus servicing Obama Magnet School in South Jackson.

"I've called. I've talked. I've met. Nothing is getting better," the parent expressed, emphasizing the urgent need for improved communication from the transportation department. The parent’s plea underscored a broader concern among families about safety and trust, especially as younger students are set to ride buses with older middle schoolers without clear information on supervision.

In addition to transportation woes, the meeting also covered several educational initiatives. Dr. Anthony Moore presented a partnership with the Mississippi Children's Museum to offer a summer camp aimed at helping third graders prepare for academic assessments. This program will provide free meals and transportation for participating students.

Furthermore, the board discussed the introduction of an English learner parent liaison specialist position to enhance communication between schools and families, particularly for the growing population of English learners. This initiative is part of the Atlas program, designed to improve language acquisition skills.

The meeting also included a review of various agreements, including one with Operation Shoestring to share data on targeted schools and another with Teach for America to support summer school programming at Blackburn Middle School. Despite recent funding cuts to AmeriCorps, officials assured that the summer program would continue without financial impact on the school district.

As the board moved through its agenda, the pressing need for better transportation communication remained a focal point, highlighting the challenges parents face in ensuring their children's safety and well-being. The district's commitment to educational support initiatives reflects ongoing efforts to enhance student outcomes, but the call for improved transportation communication remains a critical issue that needs addressing.