Check out who’s coming on board at these metro Jackson independent schools – plus one brand-new micro-school that’s opening!
New micro-school: Empowered Prep Academy
Empowered Prep Academy is a Christian Learning Center that serves families with students in grades 3-12 who desire a flexible and more individualized learning environment. We specialize in supporting students who have dyslexia. We operate from a student-centered and project-based approach, which encourages students to take ownership of their education. Part of our mission is to cultivate our students’ strengths while supporting and building the areas in which they may not currently excel. Our center addresses students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. Our environment encourages and supports their spiritual knowledge and growth. We offer full-time and part-time flexible options to support families, including homeschoolers. Our founder is a former public school teacher, specialist, and she is also a homeschool parent. We are located in Jackson and are set to open on August 18, 2025! For more information, visit EmpoweredPrepAcademy.org or email info@empoweredprepacademy.org. – Nefertiti Harris, founder and director
New leader: Hillcrest Christian School
Hillcrest Christian School is proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Charles E. Lacy as its new head of school, effective July 1, 2025. With more than 30 years in education, Lacy brings a wealth of experience, having served in leadership positions at Canopy CARES School, Holmes County School District, Boys and Girls Club of Central Mississippi, and the Jackson Public School District. He is known for strategic planning programs for academic excellence, student-centered leadership, and positive school culture.
“Mr. Lacy brings a wealth of experience in transforming educational environments,” said Hillcrest board chair LaNita Gaines-Hargett. “He has a well-established reputation for revitalizing schools, building strong instructional teams, and fostering a positive school culture where teachers feel supported and students thrive.”
Mr. Lacy stated: “I look forward to partnering with students, families, and staff to foster a structured, nurturing, and innovative Christian environment where every student can thrive.”
New leader: Magnolia Speech School
Magnolia Speech School is proud to announce the appointment of Angy Graham as its new executive director for the 2025-2026 school year. With over three decades of experience in education and educational leadership, Graham brings a deep commitment to empowering children to achieve their greatest potential. Her passion for inclusive learning and her strategic vision make her a strong leader to guide Magnolia into its next chapter.
Mrs. Graham’s collaborative approach aligns with Magnolia’s mission to help children develop essential communication skills through personalized instruction and family support. As executive director, she will focus on continuing the school’s legacy of excellence, expanding community partnerships, and enhancing educational programs.
The Magnolia Speech School community is excited to welcome Mrs. Graham and looks forward to her leadership as the school continues to grow and serve children with hearing impairments and language disorders in Mississippi and beyond.
New leader: Mt. Salus Christian School
Mt. Salus Christian School is excited to welcome Mary Kathryn Whittle as our new head of school. A Mt. Salus graduate herself, having attended from kindergarten through 12th grade, Mary Kathryn brings a lifelong connection to the school and a deep commitment to its mission. With degrees from Mississippi State University and a master’s in counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary, she has served on both faculty and staff and now steps into leadership with a heart for ministry and growth.
“Mt. Salus isn’t about a place — it’s about the people,” Mary Kathryn shares. “I’ve experienced firsthand the impact of teachers and leaders who show up every day to teach, lead, and love students as the hands and feet of Jesus.”
As head of school, Mary Kathryn is dedicated to continuing that legacy, offering a Christ-centered education that shapes minds, forms hearts, and transforms lives through the lens of a biblical worldview.