Center to specialize in special needs education
A new school will be calling Kosciusko home.
Mill Creek of Kosciusko, a special needs school for students six through 21 years of age, is expected to open Sept. 6, according to Principal Jonathan Carnes.
The school is located in facilities purchased from Crestview Church on Aponaug Road. The church congregation will continue to use the sanctuary until a new building is constructed on Highway 12 west. The educational building and gym will be used initially with the sanctuary available for expansion when the church moves.
Carnes said eight students are expected for the initial enrollment with capabilities for 40 students which are expected to come from Attala, Montgomery, Holmes, Neshoba and Leake Counties.
Carnes said Mill Creek of Kosciusko was organized following a survey which indicated a need for a facility to afford children and adolescents a safe, structured environment where they will be able to grow while receiving treatment for behavioral issuesand mental health concerns.
Funding is provided by Educable Child Program of the Mississippi State Department of Education.
“There has been a definite need for the school here with some students going to Mill Creek of Starkville or other facilities. We do transport. We have our own buses or students may ride other school buses,” Carnes said. A school day is from 8 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Other staff includes Roger Hill, assistant principal; Kevin Pullen, Cindy Cain, Joe White, Centeria Roby, Rhonda Gibson, Jordan Pee, Patricia Bryant, Amber Davis, Stan Murphy, teachers and assistants; Tonya Guyton, administrative assistant; Tabitha Gilmore, therapist; Brittany Self, nurse.
Cain will be the elementary teacher; Hill, junior high; Pullen, high school. Every 10 students will be assigned a teacher and two assistants.
