The National Association of School Superintendents, based in California, has chosen Jackson Public Schools Superintendent Cedrick Gray “Superintendent of Year.” It credited Gray’s strategic direction and 1:1 technology initiative that he led. The state and national accreditation of the district were restored following the state’s downgrading the status to “probation” due to noncompliance with its special education department. This award comes as the district is facing another downgrade in its accreditation status. An audit revealed that JPS had violated 22 of 32 state accreditation standards. August 16 will see the district appear before Commission on School Accreditation. Naj Alikhan, spokesperson for NASS which has approximately 500 superintendents across its membership, said that superintendents apply online to be selected by the awards committee based upon the application, references, and interviews with them. David Brown, Executive Director of the National Association of School Superintendents (NASS), stated that leadership is crucial as public education continues to evolve nationwide. Gray, who arrived in Jackson in 2012 as a student from Fayette County, Tennessee, spoke about the importance of collaboration with parents, teachers, and administrators. Gray said that the superintendent is not always the most intelligent person in the room. Gray stated that loyal and committed people are crucial. To support this important work, you can make a regular donation to the Spring Member Drive today. Our reporters give a human face to policy’s impact on everyday Mississippians by listening more closely and understanding their communities. To ensure that our work is aligned with the priorities and needs of all Mississippians, we are listening to you. Click the button below to let us know what you think.