Eight Hattiesburg Public Schools Named 2026 MAPE Award Recipients
The Mississippi Association of Partners in Education (MAPE) has announced the recipients of the 24th annual Governor’s Awards, recognizing Mississippi’s top school-community partnerships. Multiple schools within Hattiesburg Public Schools, along with the district as a whole, were among 47 programs selected for the 2026 MAPE Awards.
“We are elated to celebrate an exceptional group of applicants for this year’s Governor’s Awards! The outstanding submissions showcase incredible dedication, creativity, and passion, as reflected in impactful community projects and innovative educational initiatives throughout the state. Congratulations to all of our award winners—your achievements are truly remarkable,” said Paxton Girtmon, D.M.A., MAPE President.
“I extend my sincere congratulations to each of our schools and community partners recognized as 2026 Governor’s Award and Partnership Excellence Award recipients. This honor reflects a shared commitment to the heartbeat of our city -our children,” said HPS Superintendent Robert Williams, “The MAPE awards also underscore the strength of our family and community engagement efforts—where all families and community members are informed, connected, and actively contribute to the success of our students and schools. This recognition is yet another example of how the City of Hattiesburg exemplifies the BurgBuilt mindset—competing with purpose, leading by example, and winning through persistence and resilience.
The Governor’s Award selection committee, composed of the MAPE Board of Directors, as well as representatives from business, industry, nonprofits, and education, judged each entry using a uniform set of criteria to measure the overall effectiveness of partnership activities.
2026 Governor’s Award Recipients
University Governor’s Award: Rowan Elementary School with William Carey University
District & Community-Wide Governor’s Awards: Hattiesburg Public Schools; Rowan Elementary School with the Class of 1971
High School Governor’s Awards: Hattiesburg High School
Middle School Governor’s Awards: N.R. Burger Middle School
Elementary School Governor’s Awards: Hattiesburg STEAM Academy; Rowan Elementary School with the Junior Auxiliary; Thames Elementary School; Woodley Elementary School
2026 Partnership Excellence Awards Recipients
Elementary School Partnership Excellence Award: Grace Christian Elementary School; Hawkins Elementary School
