Contributing Writer,
As part of a consolidation plan for the 2023-2024 academic school year, the Jackson Public Schools Board decided to close Brinkley Middle School. On April 18, 2023, the JPS Board of Trustees approved the decision. As a result, Brinkley merged with Lanier High School, designated to serve grades 7-12.
Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes met with concerned Jackson citizens at the Grove Park Community Center (4126 Parkway Ave., Jackson, MS 39213) regarding the closing of Brinkley Middle School Tuesday evening, March 17, 2026. Some in attendance expressed that once the facility becomes vacant, problems are bound to occur. Hence, some problems could be offset with creative ideas and events in place.
Judge Tametrice E. Hodges recalled that school merging occurred when she was a student. She attended Jackson’s Walton Elementary School (3200 Bailey Avenue Extension) and Rowan Middle School (136 E. Ash St). Rowan officially closed in 2017. Students were consolidated into Brinkley Middle School. As of last academic year, the school has been marred by vandalism and arson, giving rise to local concerns. The JPS Board of Trustees denied approval of the Midtown Public Charter School’s proposal to lease it…