The Gazebo Gazette
LONG BEACH (GG) — The Long Beach School District is proud to announce a historic achievement: based on the 2024–25 Mississippi Academic Assessment Program (MAAP), Long Beach has been ranked the #1 school district in the State of Mississippi.
This marks only the second time in history that Long Beach has earned the top spot, first in 2022, and now again in 2025. The recognition reflects years of strategic planning, relentless effort, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student.
“This didn’t happen by chance,” said Superintendent Dr. Talia Lock. “It happened because teachers showed up early and stayed late. Because students did the hard things – again and again. Because principals and instructional leaders built and executed smart plans. Because our Board of Trustees, our support staff, and our community partners stayed steady and focused. The results speak for themselves. The proof is in the pudding.”
The district’s success is rooted in what Dr. Lock calls a “true System of Excellence,” where every department, from instruction to transportation, cafeterias, custodial, counseling, technology, and central services, contributed to the achievement. “Every link held, and it shows,” she added.
Despite limited resources, Long Beach continues to outperform expectations. “We may not be able to out-pay or out-resource others around us,” said Dr. Lock, “but we out-work, out-care, and out-believe anyone when it comes to our kids. That’s the heart of Long Beach.”
This year’s district theme, Defying Expectations – No Labels. No Limits. Just Possibilities, has proven prophetic. “We refuse to let a label or a circumstance define a child’s future,” said Dr. Lock. “We teach every learner who walks through our doors, and we never stop raising the bar for what’s possible.”
Dr. Lock extended heartfelt thanks to the entire Long Beach community: “To our teachers – what you do every day is tough, and you do it with courage and grace. To our students – your grit and growth are why we’re here. To our administrators and staff – your planning and persistence turned vision into reality. To our families and community – thank you for trusting us and standing with us.”
She emphasized that while the district celebrates this honor, the work continues. “Being #1 is not a finish line; it’s a responsibility. We will protect our culture of excellence, keep investing in great teaching, and continue to build systems that lift every student because every student matters.”
“As our classrooms soar, Long Beach soars,” Dr. Lock concluded. “Strong schools don’t just change transcripts; they change communities. Our success strengthens the city we love.”
