We are proud to celebrate a powerful milestone for three public charter schools that continue to raise the bar for student success and educational excellence across our state.

Earlier this month, the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board unanimously approved five-year charter renewals for Smilow Prep, Reimagine Prep, and LeFlore Legacy Academy—a clear recognition of each school’s strong academic progress, operational effectiveness, and deep commitment to student outcomes.

Smilow Prep and Reimagine Prep, both part of the RePublic Schools network in Jackson, have consistently demonstrated what is possible when schools are rooted in high expectations, strong leadership, and dedicated community partnerships. Under the leadership of CEO Ashley Davis Gallimore, Jackson Regional Executive Director Angela Bass, and Principal Quita Breland, both schools continue to deliver on their mission to provide a high-quality education that prepares students for success in college and life.

On behalf of the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board, Dr. Lisa Karmacharya, Executive Director stated, “It is abundantly clear that the leadership, faculty, and staff at both schools are committed to that pursuit of excellence and are up to the challenge of maintaining high standards and constantly seeking to improve outcomes for all of the scholars they are privileged to serve!”

Just a few hours north in Greenwood, LeFlore Legacy Academy also secured a full, five-year renewal with no conditions—an achievement that reflects years of focused growth, innovation, and responsive leadership. Dr. Tamala Boyd Shaw, Leflore Legacy Academy’s Executive Director and Founder, expressed gratitude for the MCSAB’s support. “This contract renewal is a testament to the hard work of our dedicated staff, scholars,  community partners, and families,” she said. “This five-year renewal is not an end-all be-all, but it  is a testament to our commitment to do what some call hard and we choose to call ‘heart’ work.”

Dr. Karmacharya noted, “LeFlore Legacy has earned a five-year, full term, no condition renewal by demonstrating what is possible when vision, effort, and a deep commitment to continuous improvement come together. Congratulations to the entire LeFlore Legacy Academy family on reaching this incredible milestone.”

Together, these renewals send a clear message: Mississippi’s charter schools are making a lasting impact.

From Jackson to the Delta, charter schools are offering families high-quality, public school options that put student learning first. We’re proud to stand with the leaders, teachers, and families who have made these achievements possible—and we remain committed to supporting their continued success in the years ahead.

Congratulations again to Smilow Prep, Reimagine Prep, and LeFlore Legacy Academy on this well-deserved recognition. Your work is paving the way for a stronger, more equitable future for Mississippi’s students.