Jackson Public Schools used the Nov. 6 special board meeting to spotlight recent student achievements and district events. Instructional Television and district leaders honored scholars who scored Performance Level 5 on state assessments and described a JPS High School Network celebration at Forest Hill High School.

Administration announced $4,400,000 in upgrades to the Career Development Center, saying the 48‑year‑old facility will receive new classrooms and industry‑standard labs across 23 career pathways. The district described the center as providing certifications, dual credit, and hands‑on training in fields including health sciences, sports medicine, barbering, cosmetology and TV production.

The district also held its annual college fair at the Environmental Learning Center and for the first time invited elementary and middle school students so younger scholars could explore college and scholarship opportunities. Separately, JPS previewed activities tied to the National Folk Festival, with a kickoff ceremony scheduled at Forest Hill High School at 9:00 a.m. the following day and participating events across multiple schools.

In recognition news, Jim Hill High School choir instructor Pamela Moody was introduced and noted as the 2025 Mississippi High School Music Educator of the Year; the board said she will represent Mississippi in a regional selection process.

Why it matters: The $4.4 million in announced upgrades signals a major capital investment in career and technical education for district students. Expanded college-fair participation and festival partnerships increase early exposure to postsecondary and cultural opportunities for scholars.