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“I have really enjoyed PPS's training and what I have learned I can apply to my job. It helps me understand how to work effectively with parents. ”
-PPS PEP Graduate
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In Joann's notes

Action Required: Public Schools Must Be Safe Places to Learn

Class room with empty desks
According to a 2024 article by CNN, the U.S. has witnessed at least 50 school shootings, with 37 occurring on K-12 school grounds. Sadly, these tragic incidents have claimed the lives of 24 people, injured 60 others, and left countless individuals with scars from the aftermath of these events. Although the initial months of the pandemic saw a significant decline in school gun violence, the years following it have shown significant increase. In fact, 2023 documented over 80 school shootings, and 2022 became one of the deadliest years on record, with nearly 50 casualties. As we enter the final stretch...
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In Press Release

Parents for Public Schools Joins Forces with Evidence Advocacy Center

Share Tweet Share JACKSON, MS - Parents for Public Schools® (PPS) is proud to announce its membership with the Evidence Advocacy Center (EAC), a new organization dedicated to transforming the education system through evidence-based resources (EBRs). The expectation is that these resources, curated by trustworthy organizations, will inform education policy and practice, and will be utilized by state departments of education, school districts, educator preparation programs, policy makers, advocacy organizations, and parent and family advocates. The establishment of EAC marks a significant step toward enhancing public education by ensuring all students, especially those from vulnerable and marginalized populations, receive an...
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In Joann's notes

Creating Stronger Communities: The Power of Community Schools

In an era where communities need to be more connected than ever, establishing strong bonds among residents is essential for the collective growth and development of the community. One powerful concept for strengthening these connections is through the community schools model.  Community schools offer a variety of additional options when compared to traditional public schools. One key component of community schools is their focus on partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies. By collaborating with these outside agencies, community schools provide a wide range of services such as after-school programs, healthcare services, adult education classes, mental health counseling, and...
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In Press Release

PPS Receives State-level Systemic Change Grant from Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation

Share Tweet Share (JACKSON, MS, February 21, 2024) Parents for Public Schools® (PPS) is thrilled to announce the receipt of a significant expansion grant aimed at fortifying efforts to enhance public education across North Carolina. This $140,000 grant, awarded by Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, will empower PPS to drive systemic change in collaboration with local partners, fostering a unified force for educational advancement across the state. With a steadfast commitment to equipping advocates at all levels---from local schools to school districts as well as at the state level---PPS will leverage its Parent Engagement Program (PEP) to drive impactful initiatives with...
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In Guest Blog

Mississippi’s Sacred Duty is to Educate All Her Children

This opinion piece by Reverend Johnathan Tullos has been featured in the Mississippi Free Press and other news media websites.  Rev. Tullos’ connection with Parents for Public Schools began in 2018 when he served on a panel discussion focused on the importance of keeping public dollars in public schools.    Mississippi native Rev. Jonathan Tullos is a United Methodist pastor currently appointed to the Americus Parish (Pleasant Hill/Salem) just outside Lucedale, Miss., where he lives with his wife Jessica. Tullos is a graduate of Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Ky., where he earned a Master of Divinity degree, and a graduate...
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In Publications

Impact Report 2022 – 23

A message to our supporters The 2023 - 24 PPS Impact Report, "Building Bridges, Not Walls: Focusing on Collaboration, Understanding, and Unity”, highlights the unwavering dedication of PPS in fostering the role of families and communities in ensuring every child has access to quality public education. Over the past year, the efforts of PPS chapters have been remarkable in championing our cause. Their tireless work and commitment have significantly influenced our public schools and the communities they serve. As we embark on the next thirty years, we remain focused on our mission to guarantee that all children have the opportunity...
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In Joann's notes

Censorship in School Libraries: Protecting or Limiting Access to Information?

According to 2024 preliminary data released by the American Library Association (ALA), there were over 400 attempts to censor library materials and services in the first eight months of 2024. From January 1 to August 31, these attempts sought to censor 1,128 titles. Although the number of reports has declined some in 2024, the number of documented censorship attempts has steadily increased since the pandemic. Such censorship extends to school libraries where we are seeing the removal or restricting of access to certain books, magazines, or other materials. This might include materials that are considered sexually explicit, contain offensive language,...
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In Press Release

Parents for Public Schools® Appoints New Director of Development

Share Tweet Share (JACKSON, MS, October 17, 2023) Parents for Public Schools (PPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Beth Lardie as its new Director of Development. In this role, Sarah Beth will lead the organization’s fundraising and development efforts, driving the mission to new heights and ensuring a bright future for PPS. Joann Mickens, executive director of PPS says, “We are excited about bringing Sarah Beth onto our staff. Her knowledge and experience are just what we need to build our capacity and help ensure our future sustainability.” Sarah Beth brings nearly two decades of experience in...
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In Joann's notes

How Differing Political Views are Impacting Public Education

In recent years, the political landscape has become increasingly divided and these differing political views are beginning to have a significant impact on public education. From debates over funding and curriculum to discussions on school choice and teacher evaluations, political ideologies are shaping the way our education system operates. One area where political views are impacting public education is funding. Different political parties often have different priorities when it comes to spending taxpayer dollars and education is no exception. Conservative lawmakers may argue for smaller government and lower taxes, leading to less funding for public schools. On the other hand,...
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In Press Release

Parents for Public Schools® Receives $550,000 grant from organization founder, Dick Molpus

Share Tweet Share (JACKSON, MS, September 22, 2023) Parents for Public Schools (PPS) is pleased to announce a three-year, $550,000 grant received from founder and supporter, Dick Molpus. The grant focuses on the long-term sustainability of the organization by providing funds to add a staff member focused on development and fundraising. Additional funding will strengthen PPS’ national infrastructure and initiatives as well as its chapters’ work across the nation. Further, this grant will aid in building the organization’s capacity to continue its advocacy on behalf of the nation’s public schools. Joann Mickens, Executive Director of PPS, stated: “We are honored that our...
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