Oxford-Lafayette County Schools: Where Excellence is the Standard

Oxford School District

Oxford and Lafayette County public school districts in Mississippi are earning high marks for the well-rounded education they provide, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the future. 

Bradley Roberson, superintendent of the Oxford School District, and Jay Foster, superintendent of the Lafayette County School District, discuss the advantages both districts offer students. 

The districts consistently rank high in the state. What factors contribute to this ongoing success? 

Roberson: These factors include our dedicated and highly qualified staff, a strong emphasis on academic excellence, comprehensive support for students and a commitment to improvement. Our plan – which focuses on fostering a safe and engaging learning environment, recruiting and retaining top talent, and building positive relationships – also plays a crucial role. 

Foster: As a district, we’ve done really well in our fourth- and eighth-grade testing, thanks in large part to our pre-K program. There’s been a focus on those younger grades and developing reading skills, but also on strengthening our curriculum and our approach to interventions when a kid is struggling and having a systematic approach to help build up the skills they’re deficient in. 

What is the district’s approach to early childhood education? 

Roberson: We offer high-quality preschool programs for both 3-year-old and 4-year-old children that focus on developing cognitive, social and emotional skills. Our early childhood educators are highly trained teachers who ensure every child is ready for kindergarten. 

Foster: Last year, we increased our pre-K program by two classrooms. Our goal is to get our hands on those kids early and to really focus on developing their reading skills. We feel that reading is a key to everything, so that’s where our focus has been.

How are you expanding career and technical education offerings? 

Roberson: We work closely with industry partners to identify high-demand sectors and tailor our programs accordingly. We are also in the process of building a new career education center to add additional programs in 2025-26. 

Foster: We added the lineman program, which offers students multiple certifications, including a commercial driver’s license. We also offer automotive, health sciences, carpentry, welding and HVAC programs. We’re exploring adding a cosmetology program next year. 

What is your vision for the future? 

Roberson: My vision for the future of the district is to continue being a bold, innovative and improving district that prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow. 

Foster: In terms of the future, our district is studying the use of AI and how we can integrate it into the learning process.