Empower Commentary - Empower Mississippi

Empower Mississippi Commentary

Welcome to Empower Mississippi's Commentary page, where we provide in-depth analysis and thought-provoking perspectives on the key issues impacting our state. Stay informed with expert opinions, policy breakdowns, and the latest updates to understand the driving forces behind Mississippi's growth and challenges. Please note that the views expressed in guest columns are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Empower Mississippi.

Protected: How Much Does Private School Really Cost in Mississippi?

By Dr. Kristin Vance Richards and Wil Ervin | September 5, 2025

There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

School Choice Improves Public School Performance

By Grant Callen | September 5, 2025

Written by Grant Callen There’s an argument going around that deserves a response: The Parents’ Campaign has repeatedly claimed that Mississippi is gaining academically while the “top choice states” plummeted. This is naive, lacking any academic rigor, and a dishonest interpretation of the data.  First, the phrase “top choice states” is misleading. Half the states in…

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I am Grateful for Hurricane Katrina

By Dr. Patrick Miller | August 28, 2025

Written by Dr. Patrick Miller Twenty years later, I am grateful for Hurricane Katrina. I can hear my dad now, God rest his soul, saying, “Son, why would anyone be grateful for Katrina?” The truth is, August 29, 2005, was a terrible day. I remember waking up at a quarter past 6:00 AM and hearing my…