Mississippi Board of Education reviews kindergarten readiness, literacy and math efforts
Mississippi’s first statewide tests under a new standard for kindergarten readiness were discussed last week by the State Board of Education. The assessments, conducted twice per year, aim to measure early learning progress across various programs.
According to Chief Accountability Officer Paula Vanderford, spring 2026 results showed an increase in scores from fall to spring. The statewide kindergarten readiness score rose from 37.07 to 55.02 percentile. Early learning collaborative program scores increased from 30.52 to 69.71, while state-invested Pre-K programs went from 26.87 to 66.39. Other publicly funded programs saw scores go from 26.15 to 56.13 during the same period.
Vanderford noted that increased testing rigor makes direct comparisons with previous years difficult. Chief Academic Officer Wendy Clemmons emphasized the importance of funding for state-invested programs and highlighted efforts to equip teachers with evidence-based instructional practices aligned with the science of reading.
Meanwhile, the board discussed legislative changes through SB 2294, which will expand instruction in civics, computer sciences, and financial literacy. The legislation also advances two major initiatives: adolescent literacy and a math program called M3, or Moving Mathematics in Mississippi.
Clemmons explained that Mississippi’s successful third-grade reading initiatives will extend to eighth grade, with students in grades 4-8 receiving targeted support. Screening will occur three times annually, and schools must notify parents within 30 days of identifying reading deficiencies. Starting in 2027-2028, districts will be required to employ at least one dyslexia or reading therapist for grades 4-8. Remediation efforts will continue through high school if needed.
The math initiative will include assigning coaches to teachers in grades 2-6 and providing professional development. Math skills screening for grades K-5 will also be conducted three times a year, with personalized plans developed for students requiring assistance.
During the meeting, the board approved funding for two additional Educator-in-Residence positions to support reading initiatives. These coaches will work with schools showing the lowest performance scores and will be evaluated annually. The board also reappointed Matt Miller as chair and Matt Mayo as vice chair of the State Board of Education.
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