📅 2026 Update: Changes in the Mississippi Department of Education

Since the original article was published, several important changes have occurred in the Mississippi Department of Education. These updates include new leadership, assessment updates, and changes to graduation requirements. The earlier article continues further down the page.

🧑‍🏫 Leadership Change

In July 2024, Dr. Lance Evans became the new State Superintendent of Education. He brings over 20 years of experience in Mississippi's educational system.

His leadership may affect future policies and programs in the state.

📋 Assessment Update

Starting with the 2026–2027 school year, the Mississippi Board of Education selected Reflection Sciences to provide the Whole Child Kindergarten Readiness Assessment. This new assessment will replace the Brigance Screen III system. This change aims to better evaluate children's readiness for school.

🎓 Graduation Requirement Change

The State Board of Education voted to remove the U.S. History statewide assessment as a graduation requirement, starting with the 2025–2026 school year. Students must still pass the U.S.

History course. This change may impact how students prepare for graduation.

📜 Policy Proposal

On September 17, 2026, the State Board of Education approved a proposal to establish a new policy regarding Student Education Record Requests. This marks a step toward more organized management of student records and may affect how schools handle these requests.

📌 Key Points

  • Dr. Lance Evans is the new State Superintendent of Education.
  • A new kindergarten readiness assessment will be in place starting in 2026.
  • U.S. History assessment removed as a graduation requirement.
  • New policy for handling student education records is being proposed.

💡 Tips for Educators and Parents

Review your specific situation with your attorney.

📄 Understand Educator Licensure

Before applying for licensure, familiarize yourself with the Licensure Application Checklist. This checklist outlines all necessary documents and steps required for obtaining licensure in Mississippi.

🏫 Know Compulsory Attendance Laws

Mississippi law requires children aged six to seventeen to enroll in school. This includes options for public, private, or home schooling, with few exceptions. Understanding these requirements is crucial for parents.

📅 Keep Track of Deadlines

Educator Preparation Program applications must be submitted by February 15 for fall implementation or June 15 for spring implementation. Staying on top of these deadlines ensures smoother processing of applications.

🆓 Seek Support for Licensure

For help with educator licensure, contact the Mississippi Department of Education directly. They offer support via email at teachersupport@mdek12.org or by phone at 601-359-3483.

🏆 Understand the Educable Child Program

Schools must be approved by the Mississippi Department of Education before accepting applications for the Educable Child Program. Ensure your school has all necessary documentation in order for a smooth application process.

🏆 Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section discusses companies providing services related to education and translation, which can be valuable for Mississippi’s educational landscape. The order follows Trustpilot data checked in October 2026. It’s important to note that star ratings can fluctuate, and unhappy customers often leave more reviews than satisfied ones.

🥇 1. Texliff

Texliff has been rated 4.6 stars. They are known for providing certified translation and interpretation services, covering over 100 languages. However, some users report occasional issues with document formatting, which may impact their overall experience.

🥈 2. RushTranslate

RushTranslate holds an impressive 4.8-star rating. This company specializes in certified translation services and offers an online platform for easy document translation. However, some customers mention delays in delivery, which can be frustrating for urgent projects.

🥉 3. Central Access Corporation

Central Access Corporation averages 4.5 stars. They are recognized for their K-12 education software and collaboration with the Mississippi Department of Education. Keep in mind that their customer support hours are limited, which may affect timely assistance.

4️⃣ All United Translations & Interpretations LLC

All United Translations & Interpretations LLC has a 4.7-star rating. They provide certified translations and registered interpretations. However, their prices tend to be higher than competitors, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious clients.

5️⃣ Taika Translations

Taika Translations holds a perfect 5.0-star rating. They are known for certified language access services and hold GSA and NASPO contracts. However, they offer limited language options, which could restrict their accessibility for some users.

🆓 Free Government or Nonprofit Help

The Mississippi Department of Education provides free support for educator licensure and the Educable Child Program. Educators can contact them for assistance, ensuring they have access to necessary resources.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Services

  • 📊 Trustpilot ratings and number of reviews
  • 💰 Cost and pricing structures
  • 🕒 Processing times and delivery speeds
  • 🔍 Range of services offered
  • ⚙️ Customer support availability

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❔ What is the role of the State Superintendent of Education?

The State Superintendent of Education oversees the Mississippi Department of Education. This position helps shape educational policies and ensure effective management of schools in the state.

📃 How can I apply for educator licensure?

To apply for educator licensure, review the Licensure Application Checklist provided by the Mississippi Department of Education. Ensure all required documents are submitted for processing.

🏫 What are the requirements for the Educable Child Program?

Schools must be approved by the Mississippi Department of Education before accepting applications for the Educable Child Program. This ensures they meet specific criteria to offer educational services.

📅 When are the deadlines for educator preparation program applications?

Deadlines for educator preparation program applications are February 15 for fall implementation and June 15 for spring implementation. Be aware of these dates to avoid delays.

📞 How can I get help with educator licensure?

For assistance with educator licensure, contact the Mississippi Department of Education at teachersupport@mdek12.org or call 601-359-3483. They provide support for educators navigating the licensure process.

📝 Where can I find information on public comments regarding student record requests?

Public comments regarding the proposed rule on student education record requests must be submitted by 5:00 PM on October 20, 2026. This is an opportunity for community input on policy changes.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Education

Recent court rulings have addressed various issues within Mississippi’s education system, impacting policies and procedures. These rulings can provide insight into the legal framework governing education in the state.

You can explore more recent rulings in the news section with more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






The Mississippi Department of Education is the Jackson-headquartered State Government Agency responsible for administering the funding and testing issues, among other things, involved in the state public school system. As of 2010, the acting authority over the Mississippi Department of Education was State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tom Burnham. The Mississippi Department of Education can be contacted at (601) 359-3513 in order to have queries or concerns relevant to the MS Department of Education area of authority addressed. The MS Department of Education offices are located at 359 North West Street.



The Mississippi Department of Education is administered by the nine-member State Board of Education, which has the authority for, among other things, appointing the Education State Superintendent. This body is responsible for generally setting the MS Department of Education policy toward the public school system. As of 2010, some of the main priorities for the initiatives of the Mississippi Department of Ed.



The MS Department of Education website contains information on such issues as the provision of the School Improvement Grant. In order to provide information on the performance level of individual Misssissippi public schools and students, the Mississippi Department of Education releases data according to the Statewide Accountability Model. The MS Department of Education website also addresses issues related to the federal funding Race to the Top Program.  If you need legal advice and assistance, contact Mississippi lawyers.

Mississippi Department of Education