Issues that were discussed: 

• How state leaders can ensure quality education for Mississippi’s children. Without proper funding, which helps pay teachers’ salaries, purchase textbooks, and pay schools’ utility bills, schools struggle to meet the ever-growing and evolving needs of our children. 
• Thriving public schools are an indicator of a successful community. Parents desire to live in communities with thriving schools, and children have the right to a free, accessible, quality education. Without full funding, the playing field is not level for all children.  
• The threat of school/parent choice. In 2022, lawmakers pumped more than $10 million in federal taxpayer funds into private/charter schools that should have been earmarked for public schools. When lawmakers funnel money to wealthy for-profit companies and agencies, schools have no choice but to cut programs, staff, and other resources.