Van Winkle News - Van Winkle Early Childhood Center

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Thaggard brings more than 20 years of dedicated service to Jackson Public Schools, where she has faithfully served scholars, families, and educators through both teaching and leadership.

Jackson Public Schools Announces Open House Schedule for the 2026-27 School Year

Open House provides an excellent opportunity to meet school leaders and teachers, learn about academic programs and expectations, and prepare for a successful school year.

Orange text reading "BACK TO SCHOOL 2026-2027 GUIDE" is centered on a dark blue background filled with white school-related icons.

2026-2027 Back-to-School Guide

As we prepare for a fresh new start, here's what you need to know for a successful first few days of school and beyond.

Colorful graphics promote a summer reading program with free books available for Jackson Public Schools scholars, featuring icons of people, a saxophone, and open books against a sky-blue background.

Parent & Family Engagement Center Offers Free Summer Literacy and Learning Resources for JPS Scholars

The Parent & Family Engagement Center is offering a variety of free materials designed to reinforce core skills, build academic confidence, and keep scholars reading all summer long.

A brick elementary school with a red door entrance is framed by manicured hedges and a concrete walkway in the foreground, under a cloudy sky.

Notice of Upcoming Demolition of Former District School Sites

The district is committed to ensuring that all work is completed safely, responsibly, and in compliance with applicable environmental and safety requirements.

A colorful flyer for the RISE360 Summer Program is displayed against a yellow background, featuring a young girl reading a book in the foreground.

Van Winkle ECC Rise 360 Summer Program

Van Winkle Early Childhood Center is proud to present the Rise 360 Summer Program. Scholars will receive academic support, social-emotional learning, STEAM and enrichment, breakfast and lunch provided daily, and best of all, it's free!

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Green Elementary Educators to Present at Mississippi Whole Schools Teacher Institute

Their presentation on effective arts integration strategies will provide educators across the state with meaningful approaches to increase scholar engagement and achievement.

Instructure (Canvas) Cybersecurity Incident

Jackson Public Schools is continuing to monitor the cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the company that provides Canvas.

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Stephanie Bryson Named JPS Librarian of the Year

For over 20 years, Mrs. Bryson has cultivated a vibrant library environment where books come alive, learning is encouraged, and scholars are inspired to explore the world through reading.

JPS Celebrates the Partnerships That Power Our Schools

It was a morning filled with gratitude, reflection, and a shared sense of purpose as Jackson Public Schools honored its community partners during the 2025–2026 Highlight Awards Celebration.

Scholars are listening to a book being read and visiting the Easter Bunny.

Pre-K Students Step Into Confidence with New Shoes from FedEx Cares

At Van Winkle Early Childhood Center, pre-k scholars recently received an exciting and meaningful surprise—brand-new shoes—thanks to a generous initiative led by FedEx Cares.

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From Screen to Storytime: Tatyana Ali Sparks a Love of Reading to JPS Scholars

Tatyana Ali, best known for her role on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, visited elementary scholars at Spann and Shirley recently and delivered a special reading of her children’s book, Aszi and the Octopus, inspired by her son’s love for octopuses.

Mr. and Miss Van Winkle on on stage. Madisyn Richardson and Jerrel Jackson.

Mr. and Miss Van Winkle Coronation 2026

Van Winkle is proud to present its 2025-2026 Royal Court.

The 2026 Van Winkle ECC Science Fair Winners with Superintendent Greene and Principal Barnes.

Van Winkle ECC Presents: 2026 Science Fair Winners!

Van Winkle ECC is proud to announce that three scholars participated in the Jackson Public Schools 2026 Science Fair.

The book cover features the title "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, with a graphic illustration of a person's legs and a police badge against a bright yellow background.

Celebrating the Power and Legacy of Black Literature During Black History Month

In recognition of the importance of literacy and culturally relevant reading, the JPS Office of Library Services and Teaching and Learning team recommends a curated list of literary works for scholars, educators, families, and community members to explore during Black History Month.