Lead A Life
of Purpose


A strong core of English, math, history, and science provides the footing for Jackson Academy students as they explore opportunities and hone interests throughout Upper School.

Electives encompassing everything from Latin to Sports Management, bolstered by Honors, Advanced Placement, and dual enrollment options, give students ways to test the waters as they envision college and beyond.

In addition to academics, JA clubs, activities, events, service opportunities, and fellowship options too numerous to list enrich the whirlwind four years of Upper School.

Honors and Advanced Placement courses as well as Academic Success Center availability assist each student in reaching his or her individual potential in preparation for the college admission process and college years.

As students grow into their own, the supportive JA community keeps an eye on their futures, guiding them to explore their world and achieve their dreams.


Growing Good People

23-24 Social Media – Profiles – John Markow_01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – John Markow_02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – John Markow_03
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Willis Thigpen 01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Willis Thigpen 02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Willis Thigpen 03
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Liles Williams 01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Liles Williams 02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Liles Williams 03
23-24 Social Media – Profiles Zyon McDowell_01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles Zyon McDowell_02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles Zyon McDowell_03
23-24 Social Media – Profiles Sara Kate Long_01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles Sara Kate Long_02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles Sara Kate Long_03
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Mya Coins_01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Mya Coins_02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Mya Coins_03
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Ben Watson 01
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Ben Watson 02
23-24 Social Media – Profiles – Ben Watson 03
previous arrow
next arrow

Each student brings important, different academic interests, talents, and abilities to the JA community, and JA considers it the school’s mission to equip each student for a life of purpose and significance. The school works intentionally to bring about academic achievement within a nurturing and spiritual community.

Students and families should also explore the Arts & MusicAthletics, and Campus Life sections of the website to understand the full range of JA programs.

The Apple One-to-One program continues with the use of iPads in the Upper School. Students examine and refine effective online research practices, develop computer-aided presentation and communication skills, and explore the world through the information and connections available online—all while learning to be good digital citizens.

From jazz band to show choir, from fast-pitch softball to Pre-Med Club, and from the Cum Laude Society to Habitat for Humanity, students can develop their talents and passions through a variety of extracurricular, athletic, and service outlets.

Cherished traditions and events like Grad Night, annual musicals such as “Peter Pan,” and more bring Upper School students together, creating lifelong memories of their time at JA.

A variety of electives such as sports broadcasting, Theatre Tech, Latin, and financial management (among many, many others) helps students engage with particular interests and career opportunities.

Upper School students also take great pride in serving as leaders within the JA community, as part of Raider Night, Book Buddies, Big Sisters/Brothers, and other mentorship programs.

A strong guidance-counseling program keeps students on track with the ACT testing, college admissions, and financial aid processes. Counselors alert students to scholarship possibilities, ways to strengthen their applications, and more. JA also sponsors a college fair for students.

JA graduates have attended more than 160 colleges and universities. In three recent years, 10 percent of the medical graduate students enrolled at the University of Mississippi were JA alumni.

Upper School students explore spirituality and faith during four required chapel services each year. Additional chapel attendance is voluntary and encouraged.


Meet Our Division Leader

Kyle Nichols
Head of Upper School

An experienced teacher and coach, Kyle Nichols joined JA as Head of Upper School in 2024. He has served as an Advanced Placement teacher who has led students to greater proficiency in AP testing and has coached in three sports. Nichols holds a Bachelor of Science from Samford University, a Master of Education with a focus on history from Mississippi College, and a Specialist in Educational Leadership – Principalship from Arkansas State University.


Upper School Calendar

  • Oct 09
    Wednesday

    Refreshed/Bonded Bible Studies @ Lunch

  • Oct 10
    Thursday

    Assembly Schedule – JV Pep Rally

  • Oct 14
    Monday

    Fall Holiday: No School

  • Oct 16
    Wednesday

    PSAT Day (Grades 8-11)

See more events

Visit Jackson Academy

Schedule your personal tour of JA’s campus by calling 601.364.5761 or clicking the link below.

Sign up for a personal tour