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.

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Accountability and Action: The Path to Safer Communities

By Wil Ervin | October 16, 2025

Written by Wil Ervin This past weekend, our state was rocked by a wave of violent crime. Over the course of twenty-four hours, five shootings claimed the lives of at least nine Mississippians. While these horrific acts do not appear to be connected, they are alarming nevertheless. Words like horrific, tragic, and avoidable all come to…

The Silent Decline of Hillcrest Christian School: When Private Doesn’t Mean Privileged

By Ashley Green | September 29, 2025

Written by Ashley Green In the heart of Mississippi sits Hillcrest Christian School, a beacon of faith-based education serving predominantly African-American students in south Jackson. Once bustling with 1,200 students, today the halls echo with just over 200 enrolled children. This steep decline is more than just numbers—it’s a story of a community at risk of…

How Much Does Private School Really Cost in Mississippi?

By Wil Ervin and Dr. Kristin Vance Richards | September 8, 2025

Written by Wil Ervin and Dr. Kristin Vance Richards For many Mississippi families, private school feels financially out of reach. However new research shows that private education may be more affordable than most people think—and that smart policy could make it accessible to thousands more students. Research conducted by Empower Mississippi reveals that the average tuition for private…