Mississippi is facing a quiet but serious crisis in our classrooms.
As we begin 2026, more than 6,900 educator vacancies—teachers, administrators, and support staff—remain unfilled across our state. This is not simply a staffing issue. It is a direct threat to student success, workforce readiness, and the future of our communities.
That is why the Mississippi Association of School Superintendents is launching Shape Tomorrow.
Teachers are leaving for many reasons, and compensation remains a challenge. But recent surveys of Mississippi educators reveal a deeper truth: those who stay do so because of the powerful impact they have on students. They stay because teaching matters.
Today, more than 800 licensed teaching positions sit vacant in Mississippi schools. That means 800 classrooms where potential goes unrealized. When students have qualified, committed teachers, their confidence grows, opportunities expand, and lives change.
Shape Tomorrow is a call to action. It invites career-changers, recent graduates, and those seeking meaningful work to step into a role that shapes lives every day. Mississippi is increasing support through loan forgiveness, mentorship, and retention-focused initiatives to ensure educators are not alone in this work.
We are not looking for employees. We are looking for leaders.
At MASS, our mission is clear: every student deserves strong leadership in every classroom. The future of Mississippi depends on it.
Now is the time to act. Join us. Lead. Help us Shape Tomorrow.
Phillip G Burchfield
Executive Director
MS School Superintendents
MS Public Schools
School Disctricts
Public School Students
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Bold initiative connects classrooms to careers across Mississippi
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National School Bus Safety Week is Oct. 20-24
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Program honors students for leadership and community service
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Education leaders focus on advancing public education
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National School Bus Safety Week is October 21-25, 2024
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A few extra moments of caution can make a world of difference in helping children stay safe.
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Program honors students for leadership and community service
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Education leaders focus on advancing public education
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National School Bus Safety Week is Oct. 16-20
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Veteran educators to help advance public education in Mississippi
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Program honors students for leadership and community service
read more→National School Bus Safety Week is Oct. 17-21
read more→‘30 Seconds Can Save a Lifetime’ for Mississippi’s children
read more→Program honors students for leadership and community service
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Veteran educators to help advance public education in Mississippi.
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Veteran educator to focus on professional development, member engagement
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Veteran educator helps advance public education in Mississippi
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Program honors students for leadership and community service
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The Mississippi Department of Health on Friday released COVID-19 guidelines for K-12 schools for next school year.
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As a leading advocate for quality public education, the Mississippi Association of School Superintendents provides a comprehensive set of professional learning opportunities that equip educational administrators to inspire students to reach their fullest potential every day.
Mr. Austin Alexander
605 S. Cummings St.
Dr. Titus M. Hines
P. O. Box 137
Mrs. Megan Garner
P. O. Drawer 409
Dr. Jeremiah Burks
201 Green St.
Mr. Dwight J. Luckett, Sr.
403 E. Lincoln St.January 25-28, 2026
Sheraton Refuge
2200 Refuge Blvd.
Flowood, MS 39232
Exhibitor registration will be available in October.
Relevance of topic to targeted audience or theme of the convention is the primary consideration.
Being a member of MASS has been truly transformative, and I am continually appreciative for the wealth of knowledge, support, and inspiration it provides. The collaborative nature of our network has fostered a culture of continuous learning and growth. Whether through thought-provoking discussions, informative workshops, or engaging events, I have been able to enhance my leadership skills and stay updated on current trends and best practices.
The unwavering support and guidance provided by MASS has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of educational leadership. Their commitment to fostering collaboration and professional growth among superintendents has empowered us to implement innovative solutions and drive positive outcomes for our students. With their resources and expertise, we are better equipped to create enriching educational environments where every student can thrive.
Public education in this state is making strides thanks to MASS. The association has been instrumental to my growth as a superintendent as well as for many others. As a new superintendent, I was wrapped with support and encouragement, and bonds were built that transcend the professional space. Now, I'm committed to welcoming new leaders with the same care that ensures an even stronger tomorrow for our students.
Being a MASS member offers our small district invaluable benefits. We gain access to a vast network of educators, resources, and support. This helps us stay informed, collaborate, and advocate for our students while enhancing professional development and improving our district's overall success.
I have attended MASS both as an administrator and superintendent for many years. The networking opportunities are so important. Having the opportunity to share with others as we navigate through the complexities of many educational systems has been very rewarding.
MASS has been an invaluable resource for me over the years. Faced with unprecedented challenges – from COVID-19 to school safety to the management of advanced technology such as artificial intelligence – MASS has provided unwavering support. Through conferences, virtual sessions, and summits, they offer essential tools and resources, enabling me to navigate these complex times effectively and ensure our students thrive.
From my first year as a superintendent to now, MASS has been the steady force in my development. It continuously provides timely topics through its conventions, facilitates networking with other leaders across the state, and provides meaningful leadership experiences in my journey. At its core, MASS is about relationships, and I am blessed to be a member of such an outstanding organization.
Having attended MASS conferences and been a member of MASS since 2008, I can say without hesitation that MASS is indeed the premier educational organization in the state of Mississippi. As a two-term MASS Board of Director's member, I have witnessed first-hand the professionalism of the MASS leadership, and I am confident that this organization will continue to provide Mississippi's superintendents and Alliance members with the highest quality professional development available.