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Mississippi Senate follows in House’s footsteps, passing bill to rid public colleges of DEI initiatives
SUMMARY: The Mississippi Senate passed the “REFOCUS Act,” following the House’s similar legislation targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in public education. The bill, supported solely by Republicans, aims to make hiring and admissions at public colleges solely merit-based and closes DEI offices. Opponents, including Black Democratic lawmakers, argue it undermines progress and disregards Mississippi’s historical injustices. Sen. Bradford Blackmon emphasized the need for supportive environments for minority students, while bill sponsor Sen. Tyler McCaughn claimed it would enhance academic standards for all. The Senate’s bill differs by focusing only on higher education, unlike the House bill, which affects all public institutions.
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Holmes Community College breaks ground on new building for health programs
SUMMARY: Holmes Community College broke ground on a new Health Science Building at its Ridgeland campus, designed to house nursing, occupational therapy assistant, and surgical technology programs. The facility will include classrooms, offices, and a large multipurpose space seating up to 530, supporting community events. Director Allison DeWeese highlighted the building as a long-awaited vision to expand health science offerings. Vice President Bronwyn Martin emphasized the building’s significance for student growth and visibility in rapidly expanding Madison County, visible from Interstate 55. The project involves Thrash Commercial Contractors and several engineering and architectural firms. Holmes was established in 1911 and has multiple campuses throughout Mississippi.
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Mississippi ditching U.S. history assessment required for high school graduation
SUMMARY: Mississippi’s State Board of Education voted to eliminate the U.S. History statewide assessment graduation requirement starting in the 2025-26 school year. The test, unlike Algebra I, biology, and English Language Arts assessments, is not mandated by state or federal law. Supporters argue removing the history test allows educators to emphasize workforce training and practical career skills. Despite dropping the test, students must still complete and pass U.S. history courses to graduate. Opponents, including Senator Roger Wicker and board member Mary Werner, believe the test fosters informed citizenship. The decision followed a proposal by the Commission on School Accreditation and public review.
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Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians moving toward recreational marijuana legalization
SUMMARY: The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians voted in favor of exploring recreational marijuana use on tribal lands, with 55% of over 2,500 voters supporting a June 10 referendum. While the vote doesn’t legalize use outright, it permits the Tribal Council to conduct feasibility studies and research regulations and public health impacts. Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben emphasized that no immediate changes will occur. The Choctaw join a growing number of Native American groups nationwide examining cannabis reform. Future decisions will include rules on production, sales, and use, particularly on tribal properties in Mississippi and Tennessee, including casinos and residential areas.
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