Admiral News

October 29, 2025

Gulfport High School Waterworks Academy Seniors Prepare for National Licensure Exam

GULFPORT, MS – Gulfport High School and the Gaston Point College & Career Readiness Institute are proud to recognize nine seniors from the Waterworks Academy who are preparing to sit for their Class 2 Wastewater Licensure Exam next week.

Anthony, Shadryck, Jairo, Mahaly, Thomas, Luis, Dylan, Pedro, and Rahul have spent the past months completing specialized coursework and hands-on training in wastewater treatment operations through the innovative Waterworks Academy program.

This credential will qualify these students for employment at Class 2 wastewater treatment facilities across the nation, including opportunities with H2O Innovation, the Harrison County Utility Authority (HCUA), and other regional employers along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The Waterworks Academy, sponsored by H2O Innovation and the Harrison County Utility Authority, represents a pioneering partnership between Gulfport High School and the Gaston Point College & Career Readiness Institute. The program is the first of its kind in the nation, designed to equip high school students with industry-recognized credentials and workforce-ready skills before graduation.

This initiative underscores the Gulfport School District’s ongoing commitment to expanding career and technical education opportunities that prepare students for high-demand, sustainable careers in the water and environmental management industries.

For more information, please contact Public Relations, Beth Wilson, 228-897-6031.

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

September 25, 2025

Gulfport School District Earns A Rating Again, Reflecting Commitment to Excellence

GULFPORT, MS – The Gulfport School District is proud to announce that it has once again earned an A rating from the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), reinforcing its position as one of the top-performing school districts in the state.

This achievement highlights the district’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, equity, and innovation. The A rating is based on performance metrics, including student achievement, academic growth, graduation rates, and college and career readiness.

The district ranked in the top five among districts in the Southern Six Counties for 5th and 6th-grade  English Language Arts (ELA), reflecting strong academic performance across Gulfport schools. Additionally, the district has shown an encouraging increase in its graduation rate, rising from 86.9% to 89.4%.

“This rating is a direct reflection of the dedication of our teachers, the determination of our students, and the support of our families and community,” said Glen East, Superintendent of the Gulfport School District. “We are proud of this accomplishment and remain committed to providing every student with the opportunity to succeed at the highest level.”

The Gulfport School District continues to implement strategic initiatives focused on closing achievement gaps, expanding access to advanced coursework, and preparing students for success beyond graduation.

As we celebrate this recognition, we also reaffirm our commitment to continuous improvement and academic excellence for all.

 

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

For more information, contact:

Public Relations Office

Gulfport School District

Phone: (228)-865-4600

Email: gracie.barnes@gulfportschools.org

 

September 9, 2025

Gulfport High Graduate Brittney Reese Begins New Coaching Chapter at UC Long Beach

GULFPORT, MS -- Gulfport High School proudly recognizes one of its most accomplished graduates, Brittney Reese (Class of 2004), as she embarks on an exciting new chapter in her storied career—joining the University of California, Long Beach, as an assistant coach.

Brittney Reese is no ordinary track and field figure. A seven-time World Champion and Olympic gold medalist, she stands among the most decorated long jumpers in history. Her competitive résumé includes Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games, silver medals at both the 2016 Rio and 2021 Tokyo Olympics, five Outdoor World Championship titles, three World Indoor titles, and the American indoor record in the long jump.

Before her illustrious professional career, Reese was a standout student-athlete at the University of Mississippi, where she captured back-to-back NCAA Outdoor long jump titles in 2007 and 2008. After nearly two decades competing at the highest level, she transitioned to coaching, bringing her passion and expertise back home to Gulfport High School, where she led the track and field program from 2023 to 2025.

Brittney also began her coaching career at San Diego Mesa College, helping develop multiple junior college All-Americans. Now, she will join Long Beach State’s coaching staff, focusing on mentoring jumpers and multis while embodying a philosophy that balances technical excellence with personal growth—a perfect match for the university’s mission of developing champions on and off the track.

In addition to coaching, Brittney serves as a Tracktown USA Jumps Ambassador, promoting the jumps events nationally and continuing to elevate the sport she’s dedicated her life to.

Reflecting on her journey, Brittney shared, “Gulfport High will always hold a special place in my heart. Coaching here allowed me to give back to the community that helped shape me, and I’m excited to take the next step in my career while continuing to inspire athletes to reach their full potential.”

Gulfport High and the entire Gulfport School District are immensely proud of Brittney’s accomplishments and wish her the very best moving forward. We look forward to watching her continue to inspire athletes at the collegiate level and beyond. Thank you, Brittney, for your leadership, dedication, and the lasting impact you have made on our community.

 

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Public Relations Office

Gulfport School District

Phone: (228)-865-4600

Email: gracie.barnes@gulfportschools.org

July 21, 2025

Community Partners Help Anniston Students Gear Up for Success

GULFPORT, MS — Anniston Avenue Elementary School will host its annual Supply Drop-Off Day on Thursday, July 24th at 1:00 PM, welcoming students in grades 1–5 to bring their supplies, meet their teachers, and get ready for the upcoming school year.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of J. Allen and the Kids In Need Foundation, essential school supplies will be provided to students during the event. Principal Brooke Pennock expressed deep gratitude for the donation, which will help ensure every student has the tools they need to start strong.

“We are beyond thankful for this support,” said Principal Pennock. “The Kids In Need Foundation and J. Allen are making a real impact in the lives of our students, and we are proud to share this moment with our families.”

The media is invited to attend this community celebration. For details, please contact Gracie Weatherly Barnes at (228)-865-4600.

Join us as we kick off another year #AnchoredinExcellence — where we are always #AdmiralProud and proud to say #AAEIsThePlaceToBe!

Thank you, #JAKidsFoundation, for supporting our scholars!

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Public Relations Office

Gulfport School District

Phone: (228)-865-4600

Email: gracie.barnes@gulfportschools.org

July 8, 2025

Gulfport School District Names Myles Gentry as Head Baseball Coach at Gulfport High School

GULFPORT, MS – The Gulfport School District is excited to announce the hiring of Myles Gentry as the new Head Baseball Coach at Gulfport High School. Gentry, a proud Gulfport High School alumnus (Class of 2012), was officially approved for the position at the July 7 school board meeting.

Gentry is no stranger to Admiral baseball. He was a standout pitcher for Gulfport from 2008 to 2012 and was named to the ESPN High School All-State Team. He continued his playing career at Mississippi State University, where he pitched in the 2013 College World Series Finals during his freshman season.

Following his collegiate career, Gentry built a strong coaching resumé, including time as the Pitching Coach at Jones College (2017–2019) and most recently as the Director of Player Development at Samford University, before stepping down to return home.

“Man, it means everything—you know, this is home,” said Gentry. “When this opportunity came about, I couldn’t be more excited. Now that it’s official, I’m ready to get down here and get going.”

“I remember talking about this in middle school and high school when I was here, that this would be my dream job one day.”

Gulfport High School Athletic Director Matt Walters expressed his confidence in the hire, noting Gentry’s leadership and reputation:

“I’ve had former teammates of his tell me that everything he touches ‘turns to gold.’ I’m really excited because of the man he is.”

Coach Gentry is already beginning preparations for the upcoming season as he steps into his new role.

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Public Relations Office

Gulfport School District

Phone: (228)-865-4600

Email: gracie.barnes@gulfportschools.org

 

 

 

July 8, 2025

Gulfport School District Unveils Gulfport Rising: A Bold, Multi-Phase Vision for Growth and Community Impact

GULFPORT, MS – The Gulfport School District is proud to announce Gulfport Rising, a comprehensive, multi-phase initiative designed to transform the Gulfport High School campus and surrounding area into a vibrant hub for students, families, and the wider community.

At the center of this vision is a focus on long-term infrastructure improvements that meet the needs of a growing district and a thriving city—starting with athletics, student facilities, and strategic property use.

Phase One: New On-Campus Stadium and Parking Upgrades

Construction will begin on a new on-campus football stadium, located where the current practice field sits. For the first time in school history, the Admirals will have a true home field on their own campus.

The new stadium will feature seating for 3,000 Admiral fans and 1,500 visitors, an improved campus layout, expanded parking capacity beyond what is currently available at Milner Stadium, and a central location that enhances student life and community engagement.

In anticipation of this project, the district has been financially planning for over a decade, setting aside funds as part of the broader Admiral Gateway Urban Renewal District Plan to support major renovations and campus enhancements.

While there is no official construction start date at this time, the district is preparing to move forward pending school board approval to post bids. Once approved, construction is expected to align with the goal of opening the stadium in time for the start of the 2026 football season.

Upon completion, Milner Stadium will primarily serve middle school athletics, allowing for expanded athletic opportunities across all grade levels.

Phase Two: Strategic Property Acquisition

Phase Two of Gulfport Rising focuses on thoughtful property acquisition in the surrounding area. This step supports future growth and opens the door for additional facilities and improvements in years to come.

The Gulfport School District is actively collaborating with the City of Gulfport to ensure this phase complements the broader vision for neighborhood revitalization and smart development.

These moves are part of a long-term plan to create new opportunities for student activities and public use, while spurring neighborhood growth and economic momentum.

Looking Ahead

While the current focus is on Phases One and Two, the district's long-term planning also considers future developments, including additional recreational and athletic facilities that can meet the evolving needs of students and families.

Gulfport Rising is a reflection of the Gulfport School District’s continued commitment to innovation, student achievement, and community partnership. It lays the foundation for a future where Gulfport High School is not only an academic leader—but a physical and cultural anchor for the region.
 

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

For more information, contact:

Public Relations Office

Gulfport School District

Phone: (228)-865-4600

Email: gracie.barnes@gulfportschools.org

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 7, 2025

Gulfport School District to Return to Pre-COVID Meal Program Structure Due to Federal Funding Cuts

GULFPORT, MS — The Gulfport School District is announcing an important change to its school meal program. Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, the district will return to the pre-COVID application-based system for determining student eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. This transition took effect June 4, 2025, following the conclusion of the district’s participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program.

This change is the result of a reduction in federal funding, which previously allowed schools to offer no-cost meals to all students regardless of income through the CEP program during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With the expiration of pandemic-era funding, we are returning to the traditional system used before COVID-19, where families must apply to determine eligibility for free or reduced-price meals,” said Melissa Olsen, RD, Director of Child Nutrition for Gulfport School District. “We understand this shift may affect some households, and our team is ready to assist every step of the way.”

Families will now be required to complete and submit a meal benefits application for the upcoming school year. All families are strongly encouraged to apply—even if they are unsure of their eligibility—to ensure that students who qualify continue receiving meal support.

The Gulfport Child Nutrition Department is available to support families through this transition by providing information, answering questions, and helping with the application process. More details and application materials will be distributed in the coming weeks.

Despite these changes, the district remains committed to providing nutritious meals and supporting student well-being across all campuses.

The Gulfport School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability in the provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities or benefits. The following office has been designated to handle inquiries and complaints regarding the non-discrimination policies of the above mentioned entities. - Dr. Michael Tatum, Assistant Superintendent Gulfport School

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Public Relations Office

Gulfport School District

Phone: (228)-865-4600

Email: gracie.barnes@gulfportschools.org