Mississippi Segregation Academies Gain $10M in Public Funds

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Twenty Mississippi schools, identified as segregation academies, have received nearly $10 million in state funds over six years through a tax credit program, echoing their 1960s origins.

ProPublica found these schools likely opened to avoid desegregation. At least eight benefited from state vouchers in the 1960s.

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The Context

The tax credit donation program began six years ago. It funnels public money to private schools via donor tax breaks.

Mississippi’s segregation academies emerged post-1954 Brown v. Board ruling. They aimed to maintain racial separation in education.

The $10 million supports schools with predominantly white student bodies. Critics argue this perpetuates historical inequities.

The state defends the program as expanding educational choice. It claims the funds help low-income students access private schools.

Some support the program for promoting parental freedom. Others condemn it for subsidizing discriminatory institutions.

The findings revive debates over public funding for private education. They highlight Mississippi’s ongoing racial divides.