‘Mississippi Miracle’ in reading occurred over time thanks to programs that work, specialist says

Don’t call it a ‘miracle’: Mississippi academic gains were fueled by decades of groundwork

The state’s marked improvement required more of a marathon than a sprint and can’t be chalked up to a single approach, researchers say.

‘Mississippi Miracle’ in reading occurred over time thanks to programs that work, specialist says

Mississippi Today Ideas is a platform for thoughtful Mississippians to share their ideas about our state’s past, present and future. Opinions expressed in guest essays are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent those of Mississippi Today. You can read more about the section here. Mississippi’s recent gains in reading and math have attracted national attention. A state long associated with low academic rankings is now being discussed a…

Morton: ‘Mississippi Miracle’ in reading occurred over time thanks to programs that work, specialist says

Morton: ‘Mississippi Miracle’ in reading occurred over time thanks to programs that work, specialist says brandonsup Wed, 05/27/2026