The Jackson-Madison County School System is proud to announce a major milestone for its official podcast, For the District, as the show celebrates its 100th episode this month. The centennial episode will feature two distinguished local leaders—Jackson Mayor Scott Conger and Madison County Mayor AJ Massey—both graduates of JMCSS public schools and the sons of former educators. Since its debut in the fall of 2022, For the District has provided listeners with an inside look at the people, programs, and partnerships that make Jackson-Madison County Schools a source of community pride. Hosted by JMCSS Chief of Public Information Greg Hammond, the podcast has become a trusted source for stories that highlight the district’s commitment to student success and innovation in education.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve celebrated the incredible talents of our students through Arts and Athletics across the Jackson-Madison County School System. But today, we’re turning our focus to academics — specifically, how JMCSS is taking bold steps to improve student outcomes in Math and English Language Arts. Joining the conversation are two key leaders from our Teaching and Learning Department: 🎓 Theresa Yenawine, District Support Coordinator for Math Teaching and Learning 📘 Dr. Jennifer Wells, District Support Advisor for Elementary Schools Teaching and Learning Together, they’ll share how innovative strategies, focused support, and collaboration are driving academic growth across the district. #TheJMCSSWay #TeachingAndLearning #AcademicExcellence

We’re recapping ARTS IN THE DARK by visiting Malesus STEM Innovation Center to hear from teachers and students to get their perspectives on this innovative fine arts event.  A first-time collaborative production between the District’s Fine Arts and Innovation departments, ARTS IN THE DARK combines creativity, performance, and cutting-edge technology for a truly immersive audience experience.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month—a time to honor strength, raise awareness, and stand in solidarity with those affected by this disease. Today’s episode is especially close to our hearts as we spotlight two incredible educators who have faced breast cancer head-on and continue to inspire through their resilience and leaders. Joining us are Dr. Kim Quinn, principal of Northeast Middle School, and Debbie Taylor, instructional coach at Isaac Lane Elementary. Their stories are powerful reminders of courage, community, and the importance of early detection.

Fine Arts leaders Kristy White and Christy Hayes visit the show to discuss Arts in the Dark - a first-time collaborative production between the District’s Fine Arts and Innovation departments that combines creativity, performance, and cutting-edge technology for a truly immersive audience experience. This unique event showcases the exceptional talents of JMCSS students while highlighting the district’s commitment to innovation and arts education.

Tina Mercer, proud JCM graduate and President of Infinite Consulting Group, joins the show to share details about the upcoming community open house for Hub City Central. Tune in as she highlights the vision behind the project, the opportunities it will bring to Jackson-Madison County, and how families and community members can get involved.

Students in the Jackson-Madison County School System are doing more—excelling in academics, athletics, and the arts. Today, we’re spotlighting a South Side High School graduate who is using his platform in sports to inspire the next generation of athletes across the district. Brandon Maclin, a 2021 South Side graduate, is now a senior guard for DePaul University’s basketball team. After transferring to the BIG EAST program in April, Brandon continues to build on his success, proving that hard work and determination can take you to new heights. His journey is one that resonates with students from every school in JMCSS.

Congratulations to the students, faculty, and staff of Madison Academic Magnet High School—ranked the #1 public high school in West Tennessee, #5 statewide among magnet schools and #7 overall in the state of Tennessee by Niche.com! We'll visit with Principal Chad Guthrie, Professional School Counselor Natalie Lochridge, and senior Madison Makayla Bryson.