GREENVILLE, Miss. — Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons is urging community leaders to work together to ensure students return to a safe learning environment following the temporary closure of Coleman Middle School.
In a statement released Tuesday, Simmons said the health, safety and education of students should remain the community’s top priority while acknowledging the uncertainty the closure has created for students, families, teachers and staff.
“No child should ever be expected to learn in an environment that may compromise their health or safety,” Simmons said, adding that students also deserve stability and access to a quality education.
Simmons also addressed questions about the city’s role in the matter, explaining that while the Greenville City Council appoints members of the Greenville Public School District Board of Trustees, Mississippi law grants the school board independent authority over district operations, including decisions involving school facilities, personnel and educational programs.
He said the City Council does not have the authority to direct the school district’s day-to-day operations or remove school board members based on disagreement over specific decisions. Trustees serve fixed terms, and any removal must follow procedures established under Mississippi law.
The mayor also emphasized that public disagreement with a school board decision does not constitute legal misconduct. He noted that allegations of malfeasance or nonfeasance must be supported by evidence and handled through the legal process rather than public opinion or political disagreement.
Despite those legal limitations, Simmons said city leaders have a responsibility to advocate for students.
He pledged to work with the Greenville Public School District, the school board, state officials, parents, educators and community stakeholders to help ensure the closure is temporary and that students return to a safe, healthy learning environment as quickly as possible.
Simmons also called for transparency throughout the process to keep families informed.
“This is not a moment for division or political blame,” Simmons said. “It is a moment for leadership, cooperation, accountability and solutions.”
The mayor said he remains committed to supporting Greenville’s students while respecting the legal authority established under Mississippi law, adding that the community should focus on improving schools and providing every child with a safe environment and quality education.
