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Moss Point School District

Superintendent Search

The Mississippi School Boards Association (MSBA) is currently conducting the Superintendent Search for the Moss Point School District (MPSD).

The Moss Point School District is seeking an innovative and data-driven educational leader who has a proven record of raising student achievement, who has current, hands-on experience with the Mississippi accountability system, and who has demonstrated the ability to develop positive relationships with all stakeholder groups.

About the District

DISTRICT DATA

School District Rating: B
Total Number of Students: 1,600
Budget: $35 Million
Number of Employees: 369
Per Pupil Expenditure: $24,439
Total Number of Elementary Schools: 2
Total Number of Middle Schools: 1
Total Number of High Schools: 1
Total Number of Family Education Centers: 1
Total Number of Career and Technical Centers: 1
Total Number of Alternative Schools: 1

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

The Moss Point School District is a thriving educational community dedicated to excellence, innovation, and student success. Serving approximately 1,600 students, we are proud to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where every learner can reach their full potential. Our district employs 133 certified teachers who bring expertise and passion to their classrooms, along with teacher assistants in all Pre-K through 3rd-grade classes to ensure our youngest learners receive the personalized support they need to succeed. With a focus on providing a strong academic foundation, Moss Point is committed to creating opportunities for every student to excel.

We are proud to be ranked #1 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for college and career readiness, a distinction that highlights our dedication to preparing students for life beyond graduation. Signature programs like the Collegiate Academy allow students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree at no cost, with 75% of participants being first-generation college students. The district also offers the only dual-enrollment welding and early childhood education courses on the coast in partnership with Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC), equipping students with industry-recognized credentials and hands-on experience in high-demand fields. Additionally, the Aviation Academy—the only program of its kind in the state—gives students the unique opportunity to earn their private pilot’s license, showcasing our innovative approach to career preparation.

At Moss Point School District, our core beliefs guide everything we do. We believe all students are entitled to a superior education and that learning is an essential, life-long process. Our teachers challenge, engage, and inspire all students to achieve their full potential because we believe every child is capable of learning and succeeding. We are committed to fostering a positive, safe, secure, and well-maintained environment where students can thrive—and where learning is not just a priority, but also fun. Most importantly, we believe family and community are vital to student success, and we work together to ensure our students are supported every step of the way.

Under the guidance of dedicated educators and leaders, Moss Point School District has consistently earned a B rating and is working steadily toward achieving an A. Our district is a hub of opportunity, with an emphasis on celebrating diversity, cultivating leadership, and inspiring achievement. From our outstanding academic programs to extracurricular accomplishments, Moss Point students continually demonstrate resilience, talent, and determination. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our students, our community, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

District Highlights

Moss Point School District Highlights

Top Ranking: #1 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for College and Career readiness (2023 -2024).
Graduation Rate: 92.23% graduation rate (2024)
Certified Staff: 133 certified teachers, with teacher assistants in all Pre-K through 3rd-grade classes to support early learners.
Innovative Programs:
Collegiate Academy: Allows students to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree at no cost.
Aviation Academy: The only program in Mississippi where students can earn a private pilot’s license.
Dual-Enrollment Opportunities: The only district on the coast to offer welding and early childhood education courses in partnership with MGCCC.
Family Education Center: A dedicated resource to support families and enhance student achievement.
Strong Community Partnerships:
Ingalls, Chevron, MGCCC, Trent Lott Airport, United Way of Jackson & George County, Boys and Girls Club of Jackson County, City of Moss Point Recreation Department, Pascagoula – River Audubon Center, and local civic and service organizations.

About the Community

The City of Moss Point is a welcoming and close-knit community of approximately 14,000 residents, where tradition, shared values, and family connections create a truly special place to live. Nestled along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Moss Point is a city that values relationships, where neighbors look out for one another, and families come together to celebrate milestones and achievements.

Residents enjoy year-round opportunities for outdoor fun, with access to rivers, parks, and recreational spaces perfect for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying time with loved ones. It’s a community where both long-time residents and newcomers are embraced, making Moss Point feel like home from day one.

In Moss Point, tradition and small business go hand in hand to create a thriving community. From vibrant parades and community celebrations to school events and church gatherings, the city takes pride in bringing people together to celebrate its shared history and achievements. Local small businesses play a vital role in Moss Point’s success, offering unique goods and services that foster a sense of community pride and connection. Whether exploring local shops, enjoying a meal at a favorite restaurant, or attending a neighborhood event, Moss Point is a place where relationships thrive and memories are made. With accessible schools, libraries, churches, and family-friendly amenities, Moss Point is a community built on togetherness and dedication to creating a brighter future for everyone who calls it home.

Applicant Criteria and Qualifications

The Superintendent of Education serves as the chief executive officer of the school district and is responsible to the Board of Trustees for ensuring compliance with all board policies and Mississippi State Board of Education rules and regulations, as well as state and federal laws.

Only applicants who fit the following criteria and qualifications defined by the board will be considered for the position.

MANDATORY LEGAL & SCHOOL BOARD CRITERIA

Must meet experience criteria outlined in MS Code 37-9-13
Alternate qualifications for district superintendents will not be considered.
Has served as a principal for a minimum of three years in an “A” or “B” school; five years of experience preferred
Doctorate degree preferred

QUALIFICATIONS DEFINED BY THE BOARD

Student Achievement

Has served as a principal for a minimum of three years in an “A” or “B” school; five years of experience preferred
Evidence of a recent documented track record of raising the achievement level of ALL students
Experience in a diverse school district
Evidence of the ability to use data to improve student achievement
Has a strong commitment to pursue academic innovations for all grade levels
Is an advocate for students
Knowledge of strategic planning, including development, implementation, monitoring, and reporting
Has a strong commitment to support student extra-curricular activities, including athletics, band, the arts, and school-level events

Budget and Finance

Has successful experience in school finance to include budgeting, monitoring, and reporting

Personnel

Ability to recruit, retain, and invest in the development of highly qualified personnel
Uses a team management approach
Ability to develop a positive rapport, while providing strong leadership to administrators, teachers, and other school personnel
Has experience in developing a climate of high expectations and accountability

Career Technical

Has experience with innovative approaches to workforce development
A strong knowledge of career and technical education and its funding avenues

Community and Stakeholder Relations

Willingness to be visible in the schools and in the classrooms on a regular basis
Ability to develop a climate of trust/openness with all stakeholders
Willingness to maintain an open-door policy with all stakeholder groups to benefit students and the district
Ability to engage parents and community stakeholders in the life of the school
Will be visible and active in the community; including civic and business partnerships

Communication

Ability to develop a formal process for communicating with stakeholders, including the board members
Is honest and transparent; has high moral and ethical standards of conduct; has a strong work ethic
Skill as an effective communicator, including speaking, listening, writing, and technology