The Jackson Madison County Schools (JMCSS) Board meeting on June 13, 2025, highlighted the district's commitment to literacy and student achievement through its "Leap Up for Literacy" initiative. This program aims to enhance literacy scores across all grade levels and foster a love for reading among students.

During the meeting, it was announced that the district set an ambitious goal of reading one million minutes this school year. Remarkably, students exceeded this target, collectively reading over two million minutes. This achievement was celebrated throughout the year with quarterly events and culminated in end-of-year field trips to the Discovery Park of America in Union City and Main Event Bowling and Arcade in Memphis.

The meeting also recognized the top three readers in the district-wide competition. Cameron Branch from North Parkway Middle School read 33,266 minutes, Joanna Aguilar from Northeast Middle School read 43,044 minutes, and Rebecca Whalen from Southside High School led with an impressive 57,277 minutes. Each of these students received awards for their accomplishments and will join Superintendent Dr. Marlon King for a $500 shopping spree at Walmart.

This initiative not only celebrates student achievement but also underscores the district's mission to provide equitable opportunities in a safe and caring environment, maximizing student potential. The recognition of these young readers serves as an inspiration for continued literacy efforts within the community.