Jackson Public Schools are back in session this week,

and they’re opening the doors on another school year with fantastic news. “Once we passed the bond back in May, it’s been full throttle on that. We sold the bonds in early June, we were able to get a much better interest rate on that…which should save the taxpayers of JPS a little over $13.2 million.” Superintendent Jeff Beal said. He said they were also able to bring in an extra $500,000 for the bond, due to the demand for bonds in the market.

The District has been working hard this summer, with an $80 million rehab on deck. With that much on the line, things could get stressful, but Beal says that their team, and the community, is enjoying the moment. “We’re having a blast. It is a wonderful time to see the city, the entire school district really,continue to rally around and support Jackson Public Schools.” Beal said. “We’ve got our early college that we’ve launched, and we’ve got kids that are going to be working towards their Associate’s Degree this fall as well.”

While things are getting ramped up at most of the JPS schools, on building, Hunt School, is in full swing thanks to their balanced calendar. Going year-round at Hunt is something that has proven to be very popular. “Hunt is by far our most popular, our most sought after elementary school. They are the largest (elementary school) by probably 100 students.” Beal said. “We’ve seen some great numbers coming out of that.” He credits the balanced schedule with less “brain drain”, increased staff retention, and less discipline. The more frequent, but fewer, breaks in the school year gives kids time away to recharge and return ready to learn.

For more information on Jackson Public Schools, visit jpsk12.org