JOEL E. SMILOW PREP

JOEL E. SMILOW PREP is a Title I public charter middle school that is part of the Joel E. Smilow Prep school district, located in JACKSON, MS with about 286 students offering grade levels from 5th Grade to 6th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 15 teachers, JOEL E. SMILOW PREP has a student/teacher ratio of about 19:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

JOEL E. SMILOW PREP, located at 787 E. Northside Drive in Jackson, Mississippi, is a public charter school that serves as part of the RePublic Schools network. The school focuses on providing a rigorous academic environment for students in grades 5 through 8, emphasizing a college-preparatory curriculum. Their educational model is designed to close the achievement gap by combining high expectations with structured support, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the transition to high school and beyond.

A core component of Smilow Prep’s mission is the integration of computer science into the daily curriculum, an unusual and defining feature for middle schools in the region. By teaching students how to code and engage with technology at an early age, the school aims to equip them with 21st-century skills necessary for future career success. The school culture is rooted in a values-based approach, fostering an environment of discipline and academic excellence, while also maintaining a strong emphasis on character development and community involvement within the Jackson area.

For more information, contact JOEL E. SMILOW PREP at (769) 524-5330 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.