News

(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 advancing the mission,…

(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 founder, Dick Molpus,…

(JACKSON, MS, September 22, 2023) Parents for Public Schools (PPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of five new directors to its national board: Cindy Arriagada, Executive Director Assistant, NC Foundation for Public School Children; Stephen Brooks, Ed Foundation CEO, Alameda County Office of Education; Karen Harrington, Director of Student Services, Pitt County Schools (NC); Andrea Jones-Davis, Director of Course Gateway, Educause; and Thomas Reynolds, Attorney and Mississippi State Representative. In commenting on the new appointments, PPS National Executive Director Joann Mickens stated, "We are privileged to have these excellent volunteer leaders join us as we look to grow and…

(JACKSON, MS, June 27, 2023) Parents for Public Schools (PPS) has been awarded a $45,000 grant from the Elias Foundation. The Foundation’s sole mission is to promote a more equitable and progressive society by supporting the development of emerging grassroots leaders and their organizations. The Elias Foundation has created a fund in honor of Lutonya Russell-Humes who is currently serving as the treasurer of the PPS National Board of Directors. PPS is pleased to be a recipient of a grant from that fund and sincerely thanks Ms. Russell-Humes for her support. The grant will be disbursed over three years beginning…