Mississippi Board confirms Dr. Lance Evans as new state education leader

The Mississippi Board of Education held a significant meeting on May 3, 2024, where key updates and decisions were made that will impact the state's educational landscape. A highlight of the meeting was the announcement of Dr. Lance Evans as the new State Superintendent of Education, set to take office on July 1, 2024. His appointment follows the interim leadership of Dr. Morgeno, who will conclude his service at the end of June. The board expressed gratitude for Dr. Morgeno's contributions during his tenure.

In addition to leadership changes, the board launched registration for the annual Elevate Teachers Conference, which celebrates educators at no cost to participants. This year’s event will take place at the Mississippi State University Riley Center in Meridian, with a capacity of 350 attendees. The board encouraged members to help spread the word about the conference, emphasizing its importance in supporting teachers.

The meeting also addressed modifications to teacher preparation programs. Delta State University received approval to adjust its licensure track in physical education and health by replacing one course with a more inclusive option. This change reflects the university's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its students.

Furthermore, Jackson State University proposed a new traditional teacher education preparation program focused on mathematics, specifically targeting dual licensure in algebra and geometry for grades 7 through 12. This initiative aims to address the state's pressing need for math teachers, as highlighted in the Mississippi Department of Education's educator shortage survey, which identified a significant percentage of vacancies in these areas.

As the board continues to make strides in enhancing educational opportunities, these developments signal a proactive approach to addressing teacher shortages and supporting the professional growth of educators in Mississippi. The community can look forward to the positive impacts of these initiatives as they unfold in the coming months.