Northside recognized at MDE board meeting for National ESEA Award

Pictured (l to r) are MDE Board Chair Glen East; CPSD Superintendent Dr. Andy Schoggin; Northside Elementary School Principal Mandy Ambrose; CPSD Federal Programs Director Leslie Alexander; and Mississippi State Superintendent Dr. Lance Evans

Northside Elementary School, the Clinton Public School District’s (CPSD) second- and third-grade school, was officially recognized by the Mississippi Department of Education’s (MDE) Board of Trustees for winning the National Elementary and Secondary Education Act, or ESEA, Distinguished School award for the work done during the 2023-24 school year to close the achievement gap between student groups over the past few years.

Northside Principal Mandy Ambrose and CPSD Federal Programs Director and former Northside Assistant Principal Leslie Alexander were present during the MDE’s board meeting to accept the award.

“This award is a testament to the collective work of our entire school community who believes every student matters, no matter their background or their ability, [and] deserves access to high quality instruction and the extra support that they need to meet their needs,” Ambrose said to the board.

“This reflects the commitment of our staff and also shines a spotlight on our students’ hard work and their perseverance,” she added. “We remain motivated knowing that, with every step we take, we come closer to offering an inclusive and supportive educational experience for all students.”