Transforming Education: State Superintendent Pushes for Innovative Hybrid Instructional Programs and Key Reforms

Dr. Lance Evans, the State Superintendent, recently shared his key goals for improving Mississippi’s public education. His focus is on workforce development through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs and early learning initiatives.

Hybrid Instructional Program

One exciting plan is the introduction of a hybrid instructional program in collaboration with Mississippi Public Broadcasting. This program aims to hire about 12 teachers, with funding from the legislature. Dr. Evans believes this is achievable, backed by support from lawmakers.

The program will offer 10th-grade English Language Arts and Algebra I to many students in districts lacking qualified teachers. Dr. Evans hopes this program won’t be necessary but wants to address the ongoing teacher shortage. He pointed out that some students are currently learning Algebra I through online courses but missing the guidance of a live teacher.

Each teacher is expected to support between 400 and 450 students, reaching around 6,000 students statewide. They will interact with the same teacher during each instructional session, ensuring personal connections.

CTE and Workforce Development

Workforce development is crucial, and Dr. Evans is committed to enhancing it. During a recent presentation, he noted that the number of students completing CTE courses is slightly increasing, despite challenges posed by complex scheduling and competing activities.

In 2016, there were 10,155 CTE concentrators. That number dipped to 9,348 in 2022 but rose again to 11,787 in 2024. CTE completers generally have higher graduation rates, highlighting the importance of these programs.

To strengthen workforce development, a new Workforce Development Coordinator position is being created to expand career credential courses across the state. This role will ensure that CTE offerings align with the needs of local industries.

Early Learning and Pre-K Expansion

Dr. Evans also emphasized the importance of expanding early learning and pre-K programs. He shared data showing that MDE-supported pre-K programs lead to better preparedness for students compared to unsupported programs. Students in these programs averaged a readiness level of 65.7%, compared to 62.3% in other pre-K options.

He stressed the need for ongoing funding for early learning collaborations and the ultimate goal of universal pre-K in Mississippi, despite its high cost. Currently, only one-third of students entering kindergarten are fully prepared.

Additional Goals

Dr. Evans outlined other goals, such as creating a performance-based graduation option for high school seniors who may have struggled with exams but can show subject mastery. They also aim to reduce the number of inexperienced teachers in high-poverty and high-minority schools.

Looking ahead, the department is targeting a goal for all districts to achieve at least a “C” rating by the 2025-2026 school year. For the following year, new accountability measures will be introduced to support “D” and “F” rated schools, with a focus on providing assistance rather than taking over districts unless absolutely necessary.