VWSD will likely drop to a “C” or “D” District due to increased state standards

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Vicksburg Warren School District faces a drop in the statewide accountability rating due to increased state standards. 

For several years the district has maintained a “B” rating. Next year the district is expected to drop to a “C” or possibly even a “D” rating. This will depend on how the rest of the districts in the state perform. 

However, the drop is in large part due to changing state level standards and not a drop in the performance of the district necessarily.

According to records, in September of 2024, the Commission of School Accreditation discussed amending standards to align with state law. This would require raising the standards when proficiency rates exceed 75 percent or when 65 percent of schools or districts earn a grade of “B” or higher. In 2023, Mississippi schools and districts did just that. 

Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, the Mississippi Department of Education is raising the accountability standards which will likely lead to lower A-F- grades when released in the Fall of 2026. The changes are designed to set a new baseline for improved performance. The new guidelines will include stricter cut scores, a new baseline for improved performance, a new “Mississippi Readiness Index” and eliminate the U.S. History assessment.

In simple terms the schools will need to earn more points to receive the same grade as in previous years.

In a MDE meeting held in November of 2025, State Superintendent of Education Dr. Lance Evans compared school improvements to a marathon.

“It is essential for states to continually raise expectations to ensure student achievement continues to improve,” said Dr. Evans. “The new standards are attainable goals, and as we meet them, we will raise the bar higher. States that do not increase their expectations see declines in student achievement. As Mississippi continues our educational marathon, we need to keep pushing toward higher goals.”

VWSD has been aware and expects the drop in the evaluation. 

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cedric Magee explained the new model. 

“The updated model also places greater focus on college and career readiness. This includes factors such as performance on national assessments, earning industry certifications, participation in advanced courses, and both four-year and five year graduation rates,” said Dr. Magee. “In addition, the model gives more weight to long-term outcomes that show whether students are prepared for life after high school.” 

According to the district, the 2025-26 school year will serve as a new starting point of baseline for the district meaning the year cannot be directly compared to previous years. 

“A change in the district’s grade does not necessarily mean performance has declined-it often reflects the higher expectations set by the state,” said Dr. Magee. 

VWSD will continue to focus on student success. 

“Our focus as a district remains the same. We are committed to preparing every student for success-whether that means college, a career, or military service-and we see these higher standards as an opportunity to continue improving and expanding opportunities for our students,” Dr. Magee explained.