TUPELO (AP) — Democrat Bill Luckett, who’s gearing up to run for governor next year, told business people in north Mississippi that he wants to provide ‘‘progressive leadership’’ for the state.

    The 62-year-old Clarksdale attorney and businessman spoke Tuesday during the Cellular South Networking at Noon luncheon in Tupelo.

    The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reported that Luckett said Mississippi needs to improve its education system. The father of four said he’s not soft on crime, but he thinks it’s wrong that the state spends more on each prisoner than it does on each student.

    ‘‘Too many children simply are not ready for the first day of school,’’ Luckett said. ‘‘Good jobs and a good education are inextricably linked. Not all our children are being offered this opportunity.’’

    Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree is the only other Democrat who has announced intentions to run for governor in 2011. Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and Pass Christian contractor Dave Dennis are the Republicans in the race so far.

    Republican Gov. Haley Barbour is limited to two terms and can’t run again. Mississippi, Louisiana and Kentucky are the only states with gubernatorial races in 2011.

    Luckett said educational improvements, particularly for young children, don’t have to be expensive. He said officials could rely on local groups and volunteers.

    ‘‘We have to start thinking creatively about solutions,’’ Luckett said.

    Luckett and actor Morgan Freeman own two businesses together in Clarksdale — Ground Zero blues club and the upscale Madidi restaurant. Luckett said some others running for governor have been in public office for decades.

    ‘‘They’ve had their opportunity to change. They are the voices of the past,’’ said Luckett, who has not held public office. ‘‘I am the voice of the future. It’s time for new ideas.’’

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    Information from: Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, http://nems360.com/