I grew up in a small town that almost everyone could pronounce, but no one could truly spell. It was one of those towns where you had to be a native of the area to know where it was.
My dad always said I will end up in political journalism. He’s wrong. I still do not like politics. I have been exposed to trigger warning and sensitivity about microaggressions that led me to pay attention and be more informed, but politics are complicated. The wide variety of issues ranging from roads to increasing taxes on the rich sometimes goes completely over my head. We all have political opinions – some very strong, but to me, it is all very complicated and sometimes boring.
Public charter schools have only been around as a unique alternative to traditional district schools since the 1990s in the United States, but they have recently become a popular policy tool. They are separate from normal district schools and usually run by private entities while still being publicly funded.
It is no secret that Mississippi’s infrastructure is in questionable condition. With roads and bridges deteriorating, it’s hard to deny the neglect of necessary structures in this state.
After graduating from college in May, I am leaving the state of Mississippi. I’ve known Mississippi for my entire life. She feels safe. She feels comforting. She feels familiar. I grew up in her schools and learned from her people.
My experience working as a member of the Mississippi Capitol Press Corps has been eye-opening. Prior to our trip to the state capitol building in Jackson, I had never done any reporting outside of my Oxford, Mississippi bubble. The trip was about experiencing new opportunities and returning to Oxford a better reporter than when I left. I can say without a doubt that is what happened.
Politicians are notorious for smooth talking and skirting policy specifics while highlighting their achievements in office. State politicians are no different, and in Mississippi, where politicians haven’t had many achievements in recent years, the conversation truly must shift from one of past accomplishments to future workings.
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