Walton
Elementary School
Walton News
![Scholastic and the Council of the Great City Schools Select JPS as 2025-2026 Richard M. Robinson Literacy Champion]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768576428/jacksonk12msus/rdnn447fkxq8juv24zat/JPSThumbnailImages239.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768576428/jacksonk12msus/rdnn447fkxq8juv24zat/JPSThumbnailImages239.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1768576428/jacksonk12msus/rdnn447fkxq8juv24zat/JPSThumbnailImages239.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1768576428/jacksonk12msus/rdnn447fkxq8juv24zat/JPSThumbnailImages239.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1768576428/jacksonk12msus/rdnn447fkxq8juv24zat/JPSThumbnailImages239.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768576428/jacksonk12msus/rdnn447fkxq8juv24zat/JPSThumbnailImages239.png","width":2000}])
The annual award honors advancing student literacy and includes a school library makeover for Shirley Elementary.
![Amanda Thomas Named New Principal of Key Elementary]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767626378/jacksonk12msus/pwyg4wbd465vmchyzquk/JPSThumbnailImages227_1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767626378/jacksonk12msus/pwyg4wbd465vmchyzquk/JPSThumbnailImages227_1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1767626378/jacksonk12msus/pwyg4wbd465vmchyzquk/JPSThumbnailImages227_1.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1767626378/jacksonk12msus/pwyg4wbd465vmchyzquk/JPSThumbnailImages227_1.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1767626378/jacksonk12msus/pwyg4wbd465vmchyzquk/JPSThumbnailImages227_1.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767626378/jacksonk12msus/pwyg4wbd465vmchyzquk/JPSThumbnailImages227_1.png","width":2000}])
Thomas most recently served as the Executive Director of Climate and Wellness for Jackson Public Schools, overseeing the nursing department and counseling services.
![Madison Upendo Selected as W.K. Kellogg Foundation Fellow]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1765835658/jacksonk12msus/hswwzhntwzyhi8lcrnrb/JPSThumbnailImages225_1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1765835658/jacksonk12msus/hswwzhntwzyhi8lcrnrb/JPSThumbnailImages225_1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1765835658/jacksonk12msus/hswwzhntwzyhi8lcrnrb/JPSThumbnailImages225_1.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1765835658/jacksonk12msus/hswwzhntwzyhi8lcrnrb/JPSThumbnailImages225_1.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1765835658/jacksonk12msus/hswwzhntwzyhi8lcrnrb/JPSThumbnailImages225_1.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1765835658/jacksonk12msus/hswwzhntwzyhi8lcrnrb/JPSThumbnailImages225_1.png","width":2000}])
Madison currently serves as Chair of the Wells APAC Theatre Department within Jackson Public Schools, where he teaches acting, technical theatre, and career development across elementary, middle, and high school.
![Walton Elementary is now a B-Rated School! 📚✨]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763268767/jacksonk12msus/fbzqocwvzlvooaonftd6/B-ratedschool_2.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763268767/jacksonk12msus/fbzqocwvzlvooaonftd6/B-ratedschool_2.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763268767/jacksonk12msus/fbzqocwvzlvooaonftd6/B-ratedschool_2.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1763268767/jacksonk12msus/fbzqocwvzlvooaonftd6/B-ratedschool_2.png","width":1183}])
This achievement is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, grit, and perseverance shown by our incredible students, staff, and community.
Thank you for believing in our mission and helping us grow every day. Let’s keep climbing together! #WaltonPride #BStrong #WeDidIt
![Ask for More Jackson Honors JPS 2025 Outstanding Educators]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1762203047/jacksonk12msus/mzbuxqp9qgtblfhygry1/JPSThumbnailImages233.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1762203047/jacksonk12msus/mzbuxqp9qgtblfhygry1/JPSThumbnailImages233.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1762203047/jacksonk12msus/mzbuxqp9qgtblfhygry1/JPSThumbnailImages233.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1762203047/jacksonk12msus/mzbuxqp9qgtblfhygry1/JPSThumbnailImages233.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1762203047/jacksonk12msus/mzbuxqp9qgtblfhygry1/JPSThumbnailImages233.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1762203047/jacksonk12msus/mzbuxqp9qgtblfhygry1/JPSThumbnailImages233.png","width":2000}])
Through its partnerships with teachers and artists, the organization works to enhance learning and expand access to arts education across Jackson Public Schools.
![Walton Elementary's Vocabulary Parade]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763268050/jacksonk12msus/ufw4lplesqd9jcilo11d/vocabparade.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1763268050/jacksonk12msus/ufw4lplesqd9jcilo11d/vocabparade.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1763268050/jacksonk12msus/ufw4lplesqd9jcilo11d/vocabparade.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1763268050/jacksonk12msus/ufw4lplesqd9jcilo11d/vocabparade.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1763268050/jacksonk12msus/ufw4lplesqd9jcilo11d/vocabparade.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1763268050/jacksonk12msus/ufw4lplesqd9jcilo11d/vocabparade.jpg","width":2200}])
From Pre-K to 5th grade, our scholars showed off their creativity by bringing BIG vocabulary to life! Each poster/attire represented a powerful word, and our hallways were filled with excited readers, bright smiles, and growing minds. We are so proud of how our Wildcats made learning fun, expressive, and unforgettable today!
![JPS Expands Supper Meal Program to Support Families in Need]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761924268/jacksonk12msus/t0fl657fnaatgkxcsopz/JPSThumbnailImages232.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761924268/jacksonk12msus/t0fl657fnaatgkxcsopz/JPSThumbnailImages232.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761924268/jacksonk12msus/t0fl657fnaatgkxcsopz/JPSThumbnailImages232.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1761924268/jacksonk12msus/t0fl657fnaatgkxcsopz/JPSThumbnailImages232.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1761924268/jacksonk12msus/t0fl657fnaatgkxcsopz/JPSThumbnailImages232.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761924268/jacksonk12msus/t0fl657fnaatgkxcsopz/JPSThumbnailImages232.png","width":2000}])
The Supper Meal Program reflects Jackson Public Schools’ ongoing commitment to addressing the whole child, ensuring that every scholar has access to the nourishment needed to learn, grow, and thrive.
![District Awarded $4.9 Million EPA Grant to Electrify School Bus Fleet]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1761334381/jacksonk12msus/cpr5i6p9qgmhoemf9zc8/JPSThumbnailImages228.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1761334381/jacksonk12msus/cpr5i6p9qgmhoemf9zc8/JPSThumbnailImages228.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1761334381/jacksonk12msus/cpr5i6p9qgmhoemf9zc8/JPSThumbnailImages228.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1761334381/jacksonk12msus/cpr5i6p9qgmhoemf9zc8/JPSThumbnailImages228.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1761334381/jacksonk12msus/cpr5i6p9qgmhoemf9zc8/JPSThumbnailImages228.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1761334381/jacksonk12msus/cpr5i6p9qgmhoemf9zc8/JPSThumbnailImages228.png","width":2000}])
This transformative investment will enable the district to replace aging Class 6 and Class 7 diesel school buses with modern, zero-emission electric buses, significantly reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality for scholars and the broader Jackson community.
![Walton Elementary’s Denise Thaggard Named September Alyce Clarke Award Winner]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1763267535/jacksonk12msus/es0oohyitp4sfqubdqtt/MrsThaggard.webp","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1763267535/jacksonk12msus/es0oohyitp4sfqubdqtt/MrsThaggard.webp","width":512}])
Walton Elementary School Assistant Principal Denise Thaggard was recently honored as the September Alyce Clarke Award winner by WAPT Channel 16. Her name echoed through the halls as scholars and staff proudly congratulated her on the recognition. Holding back tears, Thaggard said she was surprised and humbled by the award, especially meaningful because she now leads in the very school she once attended.
![JPS Holds C Rating While Looking Ahead to Increased Performance]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758815317/jacksonk12msus/csz3g7rsctjmpwjw7veb/JPSThumbnailImages222.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758815317/jacksonk12msus/csz3g7rsctjmpwjw7veb/JPSThumbnailImages222.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1758815317/jacksonk12msus/csz3g7rsctjmpwjw7veb/JPSThumbnailImages222.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1758815317/jacksonk12msus/csz3g7rsctjmpwjw7veb/JPSThumbnailImages222.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1758815317/jacksonk12msus/csz3g7rsctjmpwjw7veb/JPSThumbnailImages222.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758815317/jacksonk12msus/csz3g7rsctjmpwjw7veb/JPSThumbnailImages222.png","width":2000}])
The Jackson Public School District maintained its “C” rating for the 2024 – 2025 school year, according to the Mississippi Department of Education accountability model.
![Walton Elementary’s Denise Thaggard Named September Alyce Clarke Award Winner]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758651961/jacksonk12msus/hpkhnrbb5aqgo2zmooc4/JPSThumbnailImages221.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758651961/jacksonk12msus/hpkhnrbb5aqgo2zmooc4/JPSThumbnailImages221.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1758651961/jacksonk12msus/hpkhnrbb5aqgo2zmooc4/JPSThumbnailImages221.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1758651961/jacksonk12msus/hpkhnrbb5aqgo2zmooc4/JPSThumbnailImages221.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1758651961/jacksonk12msus/hpkhnrbb5aqgo2zmooc4/JPSThumbnailImages221.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758651961/jacksonk12msus/hpkhnrbb5aqgo2zmooc4/JPSThumbnailImages221.png","width":2000}])
Throughout her career, Thaggard has supported both scholars and teachers by providing instructional strategies, modeling best practices, and offering feedback that enhances teaching and learning.
![Jackson Public Schools Awarded $50,000 Grant to Install People’s Garden at Environmental Learning Center]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758142351/jacksonk12msus/euqrp09vd4uupqea9efh/JPSThumbnailImages219.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758142351/jacksonk12msus/euqrp09vd4uupqea9efh/JPSThumbnailImages219.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1758142351/jacksonk12msus/euqrp09vd4uupqea9efh/JPSThumbnailImages219.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1758142351/jacksonk12msus/euqrp09vd4uupqea9efh/JPSThumbnailImages219.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1758142351/jacksonk12msus/euqrp09vd4uupqea9efh/JPSThumbnailImages219.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758142351/jacksonk12msus/euqrp09vd4uupqea9efh/JPSThumbnailImages219.png","width":2000}])
The project will expand opportunities for environmental education by creating a dedicated outdoor classroom space that integrates core curricula and provides hands-on learning for scholars and the broader Jackson community.
![JPS Leaders Accepted into 2025–2026 Prospective Superintendent Leadership Academy]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1756995812/jacksonk12msus/t4kry3jfanjrwmj4e5b4/JPSThumbnailImages213.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1756995812/jacksonk12msus/t4kry3jfanjrwmj4e5b4/JPSThumbnailImages213.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1756995812/jacksonk12msus/t4kry3jfanjrwmj4e5b4/JPSThumbnailImages213.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1756995812/jacksonk12msus/t4kry3jfanjrwmj4e5b4/JPSThumbnailImages213.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1756995812/jacksonk12msus/t4kry3jfanjrwmj4e5b4/JPSThumbnailImages213.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1756995812/jacksonk12msus/t4kry3jfanjrwmj4e5b4/JPSThumbnailImages213.png","width":2000}])
The PSLA is a yearlong program designed to prepare potential candidates for superintendent positions in Mississippi’s public schools.
![Back To School Night]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1756152251/jacksonk12msus/urbyfq17mqnqz20e06di/JPSThumbnailKyla.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1756152251/jacksonk12msus/urbyfq17mqnqz20e06di/JPSThumbnailKyla.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1756152251/jacksonk12msus/urbyfq17mqnqz20e06di/JPSThumbnailKyla.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1756152251/jacksonk12msus/urbyfq17mqnqz20e06di/JPSThumbnailKyla.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1756152251/jacksonk12msus/urbyfq17mqnqz20e06di/JPSThumbnailKyla.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1756152251/jacksonk12msus/urbyfq17mqnqz20e06di/JPSThumbnailKyla.png","width":2000}])
2025-2026 Back to School Night! Come meet and greet your scholar's teachers at 5:30pm. See you there!
![Celebrating the Heart of JPS: Our Scholars]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1756129342/jacksonk12msus/t2vzfrkc1t7lrt4uhz7b/JPSThumbnailImages211.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1756129342/jacksonk12msus/t2vzfrkc1t7lrt4uhz7b/JPSThumbnailImages211.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1756129342/jacksonk12msus/t2vzfrkc1t7lrt4uhz7b/JPSThumbnailImages211.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1756129342/jacksonk12msus/t2vzfrkc1t7lrt4uhz7b/JPSThumbnailImages211.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1756129342/jacksonk12msus/t2vzfrkc1t7lrt4uhz7b/JPSThumbnailImages211.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1756129342/jacksonk12msus/t2vzfrkc1t7lrt4uhz7b/JPSThumbnailImages211.png","width":2000}])
Scholar Appreciation Week is a time to celebrate their curiosity, dedication, and achievements, and to recognize the bright future they are building for themselves and our community.