CPSD ready for new school year and exciting changes

Special to The Canton News 

“Invigorate! Innovate! Elevate!” was the call to action as the Canton Public School District welcomed back its staff to another exciting school year.

 Convocation 2024 was packed with excitement as CPSD Superintendent Gary Hannah made a historic announcement. The Canton Public School District is now the highest-paid school district in the State of Mississippi after offering its teachers, counselors, librarians, and interventionists a $5,000 increase in the local supplement. Regardless of their experience, new teachers’ starting salary will be $50,200. The district’s original starting salary for teachers was $45,200.

Across the board, over the last five years, all positions have received a 2% raise each year.

• The cafeteria staff has gone from $7.25 to $14.00 per hour. That is over a 50 percent increase.
• All cafeteria managers make at least $30,000 a year.
• All teacher assistants make over $5,000 of the minimum the state requires. The State requirement is $17,500. CPSD’s minimum is $22,500.
• All teacher assistants’ minimum is $24,000.
• All school secretaries make a minimum of $27,000.
• All maintenance workers make a minimum of $30,000.
• All custodians make a minimum of $14 per hour, double the minimum requirement set by the federal wage.
• Bus drivers are outsourced.

CPSD has remained fiscally sound and maintained the state-required fund balance by implementing great fiscal practices and adhering to the board-approved budget.

CPSD has also made innovative improvements to its facilities and grounds, adding artificial turf to the Tiger Stadium football field and updated HVAC systems. Moreover, the district is updating technology offerings for students and staff, including Chromebooks, Macbooks, and Promethean Boards. The district is also currently working on updating computer labs with new desktops.

According to CPSD, “Educators and staff are invigorated to return to inspire, educate, and elevate our scholars. They have the support and many innovative tools they need to help our scholars reach their full potential, compete globally, and become lifelong learners.”