Erica Jones: Community schools, a new vision for Mississippi’s future

By Erica Jones, President, Mississippi Association of Educators

 Have you ever driven by a school after three o’clock or so and wondered why your community has such a nice building sitting empty for most of the time? Not only during afternoons, but also weekends, holidays, and breaks? We do too. That’s why we are recommending that the 2025 Legislature open the door for school districts to establish community schools across Mississippi. House Bill 1398, introduced in the 2024 Legislative session by Rep. Daryl Porter, is a great example of language that could be incorporated into Community Schools legislation for the coming session. You can see the measure here: HB1398IN.pdf (state.ms.us). Unfortunately, the bill died in committee. What exactly is a Community School? It is a school building and grounds utilized for enrichment opportunities that are often missing from rural areas and even urban communities. Think about it. If you live in a town of less than 1,000 citizens, for example, your public school building and its grounds are most likely the largest public facility within miles of your home. 

Important to the vision is bringing together community members, officials, educators, and business leaders, faith leaders, and families in a collaborative effort to lift the potential of their communities while enhancing the life experiences of all within their spheres. 

 Why not use this vacant facility for the greater good of your community? It could be a location for a myriad of activities. The enrichment potential is endless and includes the arts, community-building activities, extra educational opportunities, and whatever the local community school coalition thinks is appropriate. And, for those needing medical care, the school could be a location for mobile doctor and dental services, mental health counseling, and even mobile veterinary services. This idea is part of the Raise Mississippi initiative that, if fully implemented, will enhance Mississippi’s present and future through a robust support of Mississippi public schools.

Community schools transform traditional public schools into neighborhood hubs that mobilize students, staff, families and community members to reimagine education and co-construct a shared vision for their school and community. Community Schools are developed with the understanding that every community is different. Recognizing that education is a shared responsibility, Community Schools ensure families, students, and community members have a say in deciding what will work best for student success.

Note: Erica Jones is the president of the Mississippi Association of Educators and this article  is provided Jones and the MAE. Any opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of this publication.