Leake County school district freed from federal desegregation oversight after 50 years
A federal judge ended the long-standing desegregation order for Leake County schools, removing court supervision of the district.
On Sept. 3, U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Jordan signed off on the termination of a desegregation order that had overseen Leake County schools for decades. The ruling removes the court’s role in ensuring Black students receive equal educational opportunities. Superintendent Will Russell described the outcome as the result of sustained community work and past district initiatives, and praised those involved.
The district achieved the court’s racial-balance criteria last year and has merged its high schools this year due to a roughly 19% drop in student numbers since 2015-16. Former superintendent Monte Ladner said the district now has greater latitude to pursue equity, while board attorney John Hooks argued the recent school merger will further support fair access. Leake County joins two other Mississippi districts released from similar orders in the past two years.
Why it matters
The decision ends federal court control, giving the district autonomy to manage equity and resources locally.
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