Meridian Public School District looks at curriculum, teacher retention

Published 5:14 pm Tuesday, October 16, 2018

With a recent ‘F’ rating handed down by the Mississippi Department of Education, the Meridian Public School District continues to look at ways to improve test scores and retain teachers.  

Board members discussed some of the issues at a meeting Monday night. 

Vice President Evanda Lyons said it was ridiculous that there was an increase in failing schools in the district. This year there were four failing schools compared to three last year. 

“We cannot let our students fail like this, it makes no sense,” said Lyons.

Fellow board member Gary Houston agreed, saying the district should not settle for second best.

“We can do better and we will do better,” said Houston.

Within the district, Poplar Springs Elementary School had a B rating, and Magnolia Middle School improved to a C rating. Angela McQuarley, the principal at Magnolia, said working with her staff and understanding each others’ needs made the improvement possible. McQuarley said her goal is to push for Magnolia Middle School to become a B school.

“We love to go to an A, but our next step is to be a B school,” said McQuarley. 

Officials also discussed teacher retention, which has been a problem for many districts across the state. This year, the district had a retention rate of about 22 percent, up from 19 percent last year. The district is addressing the retention rate by hosting career fairs and a mentorship program for new teachers. Retired teachers are also being used as a resource.

Assistant Superintendent John Taylor noted that training is being offered to help teachers in specific areas. 

As far as curriculum, district officials are visiting neighboring school systems to learn what is working in those districts, according to LaVonda Germany, the newly-appointed elementary curriculum director.  Germany said she plans to meet soon with teachers in Newton County, where the district saw an increase in kindergarten scores. 

The district is also holding meetings with students, teachers, staff, community and government stakeholders and faith-based leaders to address the state rating. Public meetings are planned for 6:30 p.m. on October 25 at the Meridian High School auditorium.

Other business:

•The board voted to approve funding for three new air-conditioned buses. Of its 71 buses, only six have air in them. The district should have the new buses by January 2019. 

•The board approved the rehabilitation of the track at Meridian High School, since the track  has reached its 10 year life expectancy. The board also agreed to renovate the auditorium at Magnolia Middle School.