Local News

The Mississippi Department of Education told the state auditor in June it will release EEF funds to teachers on July 15, 2026, the auditor’s office said. Auditor Shad White says teachers should have EEF cards before professional development days.

Forecasters say the area has been upgraded to a Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms from 10 p.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Friday, with damaging wind gusts possible.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation says an updated Hurricane Evacuation Guide is available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese at GoMDOT.com/Hurricanes.

BMCU said it is accepting applications for its RN-to-BSN track and that classes start soon. The program is described as flexible and designed for working nurses.

Forecasters say heavy rain will begin late Thursday night and continue into Friday, with stronger storms capable of producing localized flash flooding and severe microbursts.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration will host an open forum July 14 to present conceptual designs and gather public input on proposed improvements to U.S. 80 in Brandon, MDOT said.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation highlighted Engineer-in-Training Noah Brandon, who works in its District 2 Materials Lab and serves as a first lieutenant in the Mississippi National Guard, the agency said.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation says alternating lane closures and a ban on wide loads are in effect on I-55 near Pleasant Hill Road in DeSoto County through 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7, for a bridge repair and inspection.

State Auditor Shad White said teachers should have access to their Educational Enhancement Fund classroom supply cards before returning for professional development. The Mississippi Department of Education told the auditor’s office the cards will be activated July 15, the office said.

BMCU announced a new Teacher Assistant to Teacher Track designed to let teacher assistants earn degrees and certification online, the university said.