JPS Key Communicator – August 6, 2019
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASICS
We have compiled essential Back-to-School information that will not only help JPS scholars and their families get prepared for the start of school but it will also serve as a useful reference throughout the school year.
Superintendent's First Day Hotline

School starts for JPS students Wednesday, August 7. As we have done for several years now, we will be operating the Superintendent's Hotline on the first two days of school. District staff will be taking your calls from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. each day to help you with everything from registration to transportation. The Superintendent's Hotline phone number is (601) 960-2781.

Regular Bell Schedules

  • Elementary — Open Time: 7 a.m. | Instruction Ends/Dismissal Time: 2:15 p.m.
  • Middle — Open Time: 7:25 a.m. | Instruction Ends/Dismissal Time: 3:20 p.m.
  • High — Open Time: 7:30 a.m. | Instruction Ends/Dismissal Time: 4 p.m.

For more information about schools, including principals and links to school sites, visit our online School Directory .

Registration at Schools

Parents/legal guardians who reside in their own homes and can provide two valid proofs of residence may complete registration at their child’s school before school starts. Registration hours are from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday through Friday. You must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled closing time in order to complete the registration process.

Registration at Enrollment Services

Parents/legal guardians enrolling under affidavit status—Shared Residency or Non-Parental—may complete registration at the Office of Enrollment Services located at 1017 Robinson Street. Parents/legal guardians will report to Enrollment Services on the designated day for their child’s feeder pattern. Registration hours are from 7:45 a.m.–4 p.m. each day. You must arrive 15 minutes before scheduled closing time in order to complete the registration process.


For information about immunizations and required documents visit our  Registration page  or call Enrollment Services at (601) 960-8852.

School Meals & Menus

Jackson Public Schools offers nutritious breakfast and lunch meals to JPS scholars each and every school day. As participants in the Community Eligibility Program (CEP), we are able to provide breakfast and lunch meals at no cost to students.

Access monthly  Child Nutrition Menus .

School Supplies

Got supplies? All JPS scholars are required to have a library card as well as pencils and paper every school day. Basic school supplies for each elementary grade are available on our  School Supplies page . If your child is headed to middle school or high school, consult his or her teacher about the supplies they will need.
school_bus.jpg
School Transportation

JPS school buses provide transportation for students to their schools and homes. Buses also provide round-trip transportation for students attending special programs, such as the Academic and Performing Arts Complex, the three International Baccalaureate schools, and the McWillie Montessori school. Once scholars are registered for school, families should receive students' bus schedules in the mail. Contact the Transportation Department at one of the numbers below to inquire about bus schedules.

Transportation Phone Numbers

  • Central: (601) 960-8919
  • North: (601) 987-3587
  • South: (601) 960-5404

Student Uniforms

Did you know Jackson Public Schools has a Mandatory Dress Code policy? The JPS School Board approved a uniform policy for all JPS elementary and middle school scholars. In general, tops must be navy blue or white and almost any style but not T-shirts or sleeveless and the must be tucked into pants. Bottoms must be tan khaki or navy blue and at least knee-length. Many pants and skirt styles are acceptable but must be fitted at the waist and students must wear a belt with pants.

Although our high school scholars aren't required to wear uniforms, the District's code of conduct and student handbook details expectations for the school attire of our high school scholars. A hard copy handbook will be made available to each student. We encourage parents, guardians, and mentors to talk with students about these expectations.

Visit the  JPS Scholars  section of our website for links to Student Uniform page.
Summer Reading

We require summer reading for one important reason: it is the greatest predictor of your child's success in school. Start early and read with your children at all age levels. When we say "get caught reading," it means reading should be a family affair and an enjoyable experience. Each year, we provide required and recommended book titles and reading logs to help families and scholars develop good reading skills. Summer reading prevents summer learning loss and gives scholars opportunities to continue learning during the summer months.

Check out our  Summer Reading page  to get required and recommended reading lists and reading logs to make sure your JPS scholar is ready on day one.

Stay Informed

Choose the best way to stay informed about what is going on in Jackson Public Schools.

Follow us on social media...


Or sign up for phone notifications via...