Public Engages in Fate of MSMS at Recent Town and Tower Luncheon
Last Thursday, a Town and Tower luncheon became a platform for public concerns about the future of the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS), attracting the largest turnout seen so far for the event.
A Focus on the Interests of the Students
While the future of MSMS was not officially part of the luncheon’s presentation, it certainly dominated the post-presentation discussions that followed. Attendees were informed that “talking points” were being developed. However, it was generally agreed upon that the primary talking point should be the interests of the students enrolled in MSMS.
Concerns were raised about whether even intellectually gifted 16-year-olds would thrive on a campus so large they often must drive to their next class, and are surrounded by a large number of college undergrads. The Mississippi State University (MSU) has been presented as the most supported alternate campus for MSMS, but it was pointed out that MSU is not part of a town but rather has its own city name and zip code.
The W’s Campus: An Ideal Environment for High School Students
Many at the luncheon felt the intimacy of The W’s campus seemed ideal for high schoolers experiencing their first time away from home. The benefits include security, direct access to The W’s faculty, immediate resources at hand, a healthcare clinic just two blocks from the dorms and classrooms, and a state-of-the-art supervised gym even closer.
Additionally, parents voiced concerns about their children being left on their own during MSU home football games, which often attract rowdy crowds. This anxiety has led some parents to feel obligated to plan on picking up their children every home football weekend, if the school were to be relocated to the MSU campus.
Research Opportunities at The W Campus and in Columbus
While it has been argued that there are more research opportunities for high school students on a larger campus like MSU, the numbers tell a different story. The W campus, where the MSMS is currently based, frequently involves MSMS students in scientific research, encouraged by The W faculty. This counters the argument that proximity to a larger campus like MSU equates to increased involvement in academic research. Indeed, Starkville high school students, also near the MSU campus, do not report extensive involvement in MSU research.
The Fate of the MSMS Remains Unclear
Despite the flurry of discussions and concern from the public, the fate of the MSMS remains uncertain. Executive Director of MSMS, Ginger Tedder made remarks that have sparked speculation about the physical relocation of the school. Though she emphasized the importance of discussing “WHERE we want to GO”, it was hoped that she was referring to expanding opportunities for their students on The W campus and in Columbus, rather than physically moving the school.
For now, the city and its residents can only hope and advocate for what they believe is best for their children and their community, reminding us of the vital role that education plays in shaping both our individual and collective futures.
