Upper School News

AP Capstone: Preparing Students for College and Beyond

Jackson Academy is proud to be the only independent school and just the third school in Mississippi to offer the AP Capstone program, a distinguished two-year sequence that transforms how students think, research, and communicate. This rare opportunity positions JA students among a select group with access to college-level academic training unavailable at most schools in the state.

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Football Team Honored at Mississippi State Capitol

The Jackson Academy football team received special recognition at the Mississippi State Capitol during a Senate Floor Presentation. Senator Lydia Chassaniol, grandmother of wide receiver Vaiden Taylor, presented the Raiders with a resolution commemorating their 2025 MAIS 4A-DI state championship victory, honoring the team’s accomplishment in front of the Mississippi Senate.

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College Board Recognizes JA for AP Program Excellence

Jackson Academy has been named to the College Board’s Advanced Placement® School Honor Roll for the 2024-25 school year based on its success in preparing students for college. The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results and broadening student participation. Through AP coursework, students increase college readiness, earn college credit or advanced placement, and gain experience with college-level curriculum. Schools earn this distinction annually based on their performance during the previous academic year.

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Students Learn Skills Through Volunteer Roles

Jackson Academy has a tradition of students participating in the Jackson Symphony League’s Sub Deb Program. Through Sub Debs, students gain experience as volunteers who assist with symphony concerts, support fundraising efforts, and receive professional development training. 

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JA Teacher Selected as Apple Distinguished Educator

Jackson Academy’s commitment to educational innovation has earned worldwide recognition, as Upper School English teacher Dr. Cassidy Swinney has been selected as an Apple Distinguished Educator for the Class of 2026. Dr. Swinney is the first educator from Jackson Academy to receive this prestigious and selective international honor.

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Christmas with the Arts Celebrates Student Talent

Jackson Academy hosted its annual Christmas with the Arts celebration, bringing together students from across the visual and performing arts programs for an evening of festive performances. The Performing Arts Center lobby showcased artwork from Lower School students, including elf creations from second and third graders. Ten of these student-designed elves were brought to life on stage by JA Theatre students in a special performance that connected younger artists with the Upper School performers.

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