Education

I’m a proud product of the Mississippi public school system. My parents—hardworking folks who didn’t have much—instilled in me the importance of getting a good education. I graduated from Rolling Fork High School, then went on to Tougaloo College before joining the U.S. Army.

While serving on four different continents, I earned my bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Maryland’s Global Campus. Later, using the GI Bill, I attended law school and graduated from Georgetown University Law Center, where I earned both my Juris Doctor and a Master of Law in National Security Law.

Education opened doors for me—and I believe every child deserves that same opportunity.

But for too long, education has been politicized. Too many lawmakers are more interested in pushing political agendas than helping our kids succeed. Instead of banning books and censoring curriculum, we should be focused on what truly matters: giving every student access to the tools they need to thrive.

As your next U.S. Senator, I’ll work to ensure every child has access to a high-quality public education, no matter their ZIP code or background. That starts with fully and fairly funding our schools and supporting the people who make education possible—our teachers, counselors, and staff.

We must focus on the fundamentals: reading, critical thinking, real-world skills, and honest, accurate education that prepares our children to succeed in a diverse society. If we put politics aside and focus on kids, we can build a stronger future for Mississippi—and for our nation.

As your senator, I’ll fight to:

• Expand literacy and reading programs to help struggling students catch up and succeed.

• Increase access to career and technical education (CTE) and vocational programs that prepare students for good-paying jobs.

• Address the teacher shortage by raising salaries and ensuring schools can hire qualified educators, counselors, social workers, and nurses.

• Reduce class sizes, especially in early grades, to allow more individualized instruction and better outcomes.

• Strengthen mental health and counseling services in public schools—for both students and staff.

• Modernize school buildings, including improving ventilation systems, to ensure safe, healthy learning environments.

• Invest in affordable pre-K and early childhood education, so every child starts school ready to learn.

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We have a responsibility to give every student a real shot at success. That starts with supporting our public schools—not tearing them down—and ensuring our children are prepared not just for tests, but for life.