JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – More than a dozen Jackson Public School students are getting a head start on their careers as math teachers with the district.

Fifteen students graduated from the Inaugural Cohort of Jackson Middle College.

With this program, high school juniors are able to begin college courses at Jackson State University. The principal for Jackson Middle College says these are some of the most talented students in the state who will help fill the national shortage for math teachers.

This is the only program of its kind in Mississippi and the first in the nation.

Shelita McCadney, principal for Jackson Middle College said, “these are aspiring Mathematics teachers who began their certification as high school students. So they will complete their Mathematics education degree in exchange for three years of service in Jackson Public Schools once they graduate.”

Once the students complete their college degrees at Jackson State, they can choose the middle or high school where they want to work for JPS.

Jackson Middle College is a partnership between JPS and JSU. High school students can earn college credits to become a math teacher while completing their high school education.

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