Anna Clarissa Jones named 2025 Mississippi Parent of the Year by MDE

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) has named Anna Clarissa Jones as the 2025 Mississippi Parent of the Year. Jones, a Clarksdale Municipal School District parent, was acknowledged for her dedication and contribution to her children's education and the broader school community.

Nominated by her school district, Jones is recognized for being a "supportive, dedicated, and compassionate person who loves a challenge," and as someone who extends her support beyond her own children. She is actively involved in educational activities, frequently visiting schools and offering encouragement to students and staff. Jones serves as a role model within the school community.

Her community involvement includes being an active member of the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) where she leads fundraising activities, participating in various school events, and supporting her church's youth department. Additionally, Jones has contributed through her nonprofit, The Overcomers' Place, which aims to empower young people in the Mississippi Delta.

Research highlights the importance of parental involvement in students' academic success, an aspect reflected in the Parent of the Year program conducted annually by MDE. The program involves each district selecting an outstanding parent who has significantly influenced school improvement.

The selection committee reviewed applications submitted by various school districts, selecting a finalist from each of the four congressional districts. Among the finalists were India Hale from the Senatobia School District, Betsy Guerry from the Brookhaven School District, and Justin Powell from the Hattiesburg Public School District. Each of them was recognized for their unique contributions to their respective districts.

Anna Clarissa Jones' extensive involvement in community and school activities, as well as her dedication to various service-oriented organizations, led her to be named the 2025 Mississippi Parent of the Year.