Dana Road Elementary celebrates B rating with students, teachers and staff

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) —

Hard work, dedication and academic success were celebrated Wednesday morning as Dana Road Elementary School recognized its “B” accountability rating with a celebration filled with excitement, school pride and appreciation.

The Jaguars packed the stands inside the school gymnasium, where cheers echoed throughout the building as students, teachers and staff celebrated an achievement that reflected their commitment to academic excellence.

The celebration began with a welcome from student Queen Isabella Williams-Henderson and King Brycen Lumpkin. Kasen Mayfield led the prayer, followed by Calvon Smith with the Pledge of Allegiance. Brooklyn Edwards delivered the leadership pledge, while Ivy Watkins presented the Vicksburg Warren School District Strategic Framework and Mission Statement.

Principal Nakisha Davis was filled with excitement as she addressed the students and staff about the school’s accomplishment. While the B rating was a reason to celebrate, Davis reminded everyone that the journey toward continued academic success was far from over.

“We know that it took a lot of hard work to get here and we know the planning and hard work that has taken place behind this B and we know that we are up for a challenge,” Davis said. “The hard work has to continue.”

For the Jaguars, Wednesday was more than just a celebration of a letter grade. It was an opportunity to recognize the dedication and determination that helped the school reach another academic milestone.

As part of the celebration, students were treated to a day filled with fun activities in recognition of their accomplishments.

Davis also made sure the teachers received their flowers for the role they played in helping Dana Road achieve its B rating.

During the ceremony, she called the teachers to the gym floor and publicly acknowledged their commitment to educating students, emphasizing that the school’s success would not have been possible without them.

“This job is not easy, it is a very difficult task,” Davis added. “They come every day and they give it their all.”

Before the ceremony concluded, Davis took a moment to recognize former Dana Road Principal Lashonda Keyes, paying tribute to the foundation she established at the school.

“This lady right here laid a foundation for me and many of us in this building,” Davis said. “Mrs. Keyes we love you here at Dana Road.”

Dana Road also recognized its sister school, Vicksburg Intermediate School, for earning a B rating of its own.

The celebration highlighted the importance of teamwork, leadership and perseverance as the Jaguars reflected on their accomplishments while looking ahead to even greater academic success.

Dana Road Elementary’s leadership team includes:

• Nakisha Davis — Principal
• Angela Clark — Assistant principal
• Dr. Uretka Callon — Lead teacher
• Dr. Malinda Aaron — Lead teacher