Chalkboard Ch@t

The Mississippi Military Star School program focuses on ensuring children in military families are supported. These children often face high levels of stress and unique challenges tied to their parent(s) being deployed, moving frequently to a new school, adjusting to new teachers, and balancing new social interactions, among other things. Governor Tate Reeves, through Executive Order 1561, directed the Mississippi Department of Education to create and administer this program. Ms. Wendy Clemons and Ms. Tammy Crosetti from MDE share information about how the program works and what a school needs to do to become a Military Star school.

Ella Frances Martin, a ninth grader from Houston, MS shares how her journey with diabetes led to volunteering with the Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi. Her volunteerism focuses on providing care packages to children who have been diagnosed with diabetes as well. She talks about the impact of her efforts and how special it is to her. Listen to Ella’s inspiring story.

When it comes to playing in a band, Kaylyn Johnson, a freshman from Mendenhall High School knows a lot about it. Her love for the band started in elementary school when she played the recorder. Now, Kaylyn plays clarinet in the concert band and is looking forward to playing in the marching band. Listen in on our conversation as she shares lots of good tips, pros and cons, and the commitment it takes to play in a band.

Braids, braids, and more braids. We see braided hair everywhere – different colors and different styles. Creativity is high when it comes to hair braiding. Kalen Woodard, a freshman at Mendenhall High School, shares her journey of learning to braid and talks about how the hairstyle is historic and an expression of self. 

Early College High School is a unique concept that provides an innovative way for students to get a jumpstart on their after-high school journey. Dr. Tara Y. Wren talks to Ms. Wendy Clemons and Dr. Lea Johnson from the Mississippi Department of Education about this program that helps propel middle and high school students toward a career and/or college degree.Early College High Schools are small schools that are usually located on a community college campus. It is a four-year program designed to provide students with a non-traditional high school experience. When they graduate, they could receive both a high school diploma, and either a career tech certificate or an associate's degree. They can also earn credits toward a bachelor’s degree.Listen in on this conversation and see if this unique learning experience is one you want to explore for students in your home or community.

 For Jenna Dent, a Madison Central High School senior, jewelry making is an outlet for self-expression, an opportunity to show support for friends, and a talent towards entrepreneurship. Listen in as Dr. Wren explores the art and skill of jewelry making with Jenna. 

Kaleb Thompson, an eighth grader at Ocean Springs Middle School, loves music and he has some vinyl records to back that up. He listens to, plays, and studies music. Listen in as Kaleb talks to me about his passion for music. 

Natalie Ford, a ninth grader at Warren Central High School is passionate about being transparent concerning mental health challenges. Natalie shares her personal story and encourages open communication and its importance in helping others cope. 

Chirp! Chirp! is the sound Nadiya Gary hears often at home. Nadiya, an Ocean Springs Middle School student from Mississippi, has taken on the joy and challenges of being a pet bird owner to two birds. Dr. Tara Y. Wren talks to Nadiya about her flying friends.