MAE Welcomes New Leadership: Erica Webber Jones as Executive Director & Dr. Darein Spann as President
The Mississippi Association of Educators is proud to announce Erica Webber Jones as our new Executive Director and Dr. Darein Spann as our new President. Together, they will lead MAE’s mission to advocate for public education, support educators, and ensure every student in Mississippi has access to quality learning opportunities.
Why MAE? We believe in the power of Public Education to lift up lives
Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) represents thousands of Mississippians—educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, friends—who believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society.
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Mississippi Association of Educators Welcomes Dr. Darein Spann as President
Mississippi Association of Educators Welcomes Dr. Darein Spann as President
The Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) is pleased to announce Dr. Darein Spann as the organization’s President, following Erica Webber Jones’ transition to Executive Director.
MAE Legislative Agenda 2025
MAE Legislative Agenda 2025
The Mississippi Association of Educators is looking forward to another productive legislative session as we work together with lawmakers to improve Mississippi’s public education system. We are confident that our elected officials agree with us that there are no issues more important to Mississippi’s economic future and the success of our citizens than a strong system of public schools.
Q&A Spotlight: Kathleen Parker – A Dedicated Education Support Professional (ESP)
Q&A Spotlight: Kathleen Parker – A Dedicated Education Support Professional (ESP)
Meet Kathleen Parker, a dedicated Education Support Professional (ESP) in George County, with 17 years of inspiring first graders! Her journey is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to her students. From overcoming challenges to building lasting connections, Kathleen truly embodies the heart of education.
Municipal Elections are happening this year in Mississippi!
Municipal Elections are happening this year in Mississippi!
These elections have a huge impact on your community—they shape local leadership, policies, and resources. This is your chance to build community power and make a difference! Check out these key election dates below and make a plan to get out and vote! ✅
Make the Leap Back to Learning: Proven Ways to Thrive as an Adult Student
Make the Leap Back to Learning: Proven Ways to Thrive as an Adult Student
Returning to school as an adult can feel both exciting and challenging. Balancing academic goals with personal and professional responsibilities requires a focused approach and a willingness to adapt.
Our best hope for student success is you.
Your passion and commitment are crucial to helping all students—of all colors and backgrounds—learn, grow, and fulfill their potential. Here’s how you can get started.
Be a voice for each and every student.
Advance justice with us.
Advocate for your rights & working conditions.
Use Your Educator Voice.
We are THE voice for educators in Mississippi. See what membership can mean for you!
Let's Bring Real Change
Let's Get Real
Mississippi ranks 49th in the country for average ESP salary.
Let's Bring Real Change
In this legislative session, MAE members are advocating for legislative priorities that include increasing the minimum ESP salary in Mississippi.
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There is ZERO evidence that voucher programs improve overall student success.
Let's Bring Real Change
Let’s keep our foot on the accelerator and strongly insist that the formula be fully funded this session and every session going forward. That way, every Mississippi student will have the best opportunity possible to succeed, no matter where they live and no matter their ability.
— MAE Executive Director Erica Jones
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Black and brown students are three times more likely to be expelled than white students.
Let's Bring Real Change
Through NEA's Teacher Leadership Institute, I [started] a mentoring program for African American boys. I’ve traveled to Washington, D.C. and sat on several different platforms to talk about my program and the need for more African American teachers in K-12 education.
— Erica Avent, Intervention Coordinator in Oxford, Mississippi
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Spring Into Learning
The Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) is excited to launch its 2025 Professional Development Schedule, including sessions about adult social-emotional learning, implementing Universal Design for Learning, culturally responsive teaching, and more!
Advocating strong public schools for every student and every public school employee
Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) represents thousands of Mississippians—educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, friends—who believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society.