Over the summer, The Clarion Ledger, the state’s largest-circulation newspaper, held a poll for its readers, “Best of 2016 People’s Choice Awards.” Results were posted on October 30th, and members of the Prep community were excited to learn that Prep excelled in many  categories, including “Best Private School” in the state.

Hope Kullman, a sophomore and member of the Reveillon show choir stated, “It is a blessing to go to Prep and we are so fortunate to attend this school. School is not fun, but Prep makes coming to school not a dread, but rather exciting. The performing arts venues are spectacular to say the least. They allow us to have competitions and other events that some schools are not capable of hosting.”  

“I’m thrilled quite honestly to see this come about,” said Head of School Dr. Jason Walton. “It’s reflective of the good job that we’re doing here for Jackson Prep families.”

Not only did Prep win in this category, but 11th grade English teacher Dr. Lisa Whitney was chosen as the “Best Teacher” in the State. “ I feel fortunate to be able to do what I love and know that it matters. teachers have to accept that they will not necessarily see or hear about the effects teaching so I have to admit that I have enjoyed getting such direct affirmation from students and colleagues. Because I work with, admire, and learn from so many amazing teachers, it is hard to be comfortable with the “best teacher” designation. It has been a real gift. ,” said Whitney. With only being three months into the school year, Dr. Whitney has already had a lasting effect on some of her students. “Dr. Whitney has taught me the importance of hard work and that studying eventually pays off,” stated Nelson Ramsey, a student of Dr. Whitney’s. “During a recent section of class, we were covering Shakespearean style writing and I did not understand it at all. She was very persistent in helping me and kept evolving her teaching to fit my needs and the needs of other students.”  

Prep was also a finalist in the categories, “Best Performing Arts Venue”, and “Best Place to Work.” Many students and teachers feel that Prep is very deserving of these two recognitions.

Faculty member Hunter Upchurch feels that, “The best part of working at Jackson Prep is the people, the students and the faculty that I interact with every day.  I am genuinely happy to come to work every morning because I’m able to spend my day talking about things that I love with smart, curious, and funny students.  My colleagues are kind and professional and they help me to be a better teacher.”

“I’m thrilled quite honestly to see this come about,” said Head of School Dr. Jason Walton. “It’s reflective of the good job that we’re doing here for Jackson Prep families.”

To see the entire list of winners, click here.