Dr. Darein Spann Named President of the Mississippi Association of Educators

Press Release:
Jackson, MS — February 3, 2025 — The Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) is pleased to announce Dr. Darein Spann as the organization’s President, following Erica Webber Jones’ transition to Executive Director. 

Dr. Spann, a dedicated education advocate and leader, has been a steadfast voice for educators, students, and public schools across Mississippi. With years of experience in education policy and classroom instruction, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing educators today. 

“I am honored to step into this role and continue MAE’s mission of advocating for fully funded public schools, fair wages for educators, and equitable opportunities for all students,” said Dr. Spann. “Together, we will build on the strong foundation set before us and push forward for a brighter future in Mississippi education.” 

As President, Dr. Spann will lead MAE’s ongoing efforts to support educators, engage communities, and advocate for policies that strengthen public education across the state. 

For more information about the Mississippi Association of Educators and its mission, visit MAEToday.org. 

About Spann:

He has an undergraduate degree in English from Belhaven University and three graduate degrees (Master’s in Education, Education Specialist in Leadership, and an Education Doctorate in Leadership) from Mississippi College. Formerly principal, he currently serves as a high school administrator at Starkville High School in the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District, where he was named the 2021-2022 District Administrator of the Year and the 2020-2021 Certified Employee of the Year. He also serves as an Adjunct Faculty at Jackson State University and Mississippi State University (Meridian campus).

Dr. Spann serves as a member of the Starkville Association of Educators, Vice President of the Mississippi Association of Educators, a member of the National Education Association, where he served on the Board of Director for six years. He is a member of the National Council of Teachers of English, Teacher Education Council at Mississippi State, and the MS Civil Rights Advisory Committee. He has served on several education committees through the Mississippi Association of Educators.

Dr. Spann is a native of Jackson, Mississippi by way of Clinton who resides in Starkville.