Mississippi School Board discusses CTE progress and approves new member training in DC

The Mississippi Board of Education convened on May 16, 2024, to discuss several key topics, including updates on recent meetings, upcoming events, and the approval of important motions.

During the meeting, Superintendent Lamarlin expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Mississippi School for the Deaf and Blind. Board members shared insights from recent meetings, highlighting the positive reception of department heads' involvement in discussions with the superintendent. One member noted that Mississippi is making significant progress in Career and Technical Education (CTE), stating that the state is ahead of others, such as Nebraska, which only recently established statewide CTE programs.

The board also approved a motion for Billie Jean Stroud to attend the NASB New Member Institute in Washington, D.C., scheduled for July. This motion received unanimous support from the members present.

Additionally, the board set the meeting dates for the fiscal year 2025. A work session for semifinalist interviews for a state board representative and discussions on the fiscal year 2026 budget will take place on June 19 in Jackson, Mississippi. The following day, the regular board meeting is scheduled for June 20 at the same location.

Assistant Chair Matt Miller will lead these upcoming meetings, as Superintendent Lamarlin will be celebrating a personal milestone. The board acknowledged the significance of the timing, noting that the meetings coincide with Juneteenth, a recognized holiday.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in Mississippi and maintaining open communication among its members.