Jackson Public Schools board approves package including CTE expansions, property sale, data‑center project and salary increases

The Jackson Public School District Board of Trustees on March 18 approved a set of agenda items covering program expansions, property disposition, capital projects and personnel matters.

Trustees approved a single collective motion to accept items A–K presented by administration; the motion was moved by James and seconded by Cynthia and recorded with no nays. Administrators presented details for many of the approved items during the meeting; the board accepted the group motion rather than individual roll‑call votes for each item.

Votes at a glance

- CTE program changes for 2025–26: Approved. The board approved five requested program changes to align career and technical education with local labor‑market needs. Additions include computer science and engineering programs at Callaway and Murrah high schools, an additional unit at the Career Development Center to serve Henley Young Patton students, and reestablishment of barbering and cosmetology programs at the Career Development Center; one existing fire‑science section will be converted to welding. Administrators said the state will reimburse staffing for two teacher positions used in a teacher‑residency program. The board was told the district expects MDE funding notifications this summer and that only one additional staff position is needed immediately.

- Poindexter Elementary sale (Purchase and Sale Agreement): Approved. Administrators recommended declaring Poindexter Elementary surplus and approving a purchase and sale agreement to MSD 2, Mississippi Limited Partnership on behalf of Gulf Coast Housing Partnership Inc. and the Center…