PCPSD and Pirate Excellence Foundation recognized with statewide award
The Pass Post
The Pass Christian Public School District (PCPSD), in partnership with the Pirate Excellence Foundation, was recently awarded the 2026 Governor’s Award of Distinction for District and Community-wide partnerships.
The Mississippi Association of Partners in Education recognized Mississippi’s top school-community partnerships during the 24th annual Governor’s Awards Celebration, honoring school-community partnership programs that have produced outstanding results for students in K-12 public schools throughout Mississippi.
The PCPSD-Pirate Excellence Foundation partnership was created to remove barriers to student success through holistic scholarships and mental health support. Since its founding, the Foundation has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships and provided ACT preparation for forty-nine high school students, opening doors to college and career opportunities for dozens of graduates.
In response to student wellness needs, the Foundation also provides critical financial support for the district’s Hope Squad, empowering fifty-six student leaders to build a culture of peer-to-peer suicide prevention that reaches all 959 middle and high school students. Together, these efforts unite schools, families, and local businesses in a shared mission: ensuring every Pirate has the opportunity, support and hope to thrive.
“We are elated to celebrate an exceptional group of applicants for this year’s Governor’s Awards! The outstanding submissions showcase incredible dedication, creativity and passion, as reflected in impactful community projects and innovative educational initiatives throughout the state,” said Paxton Girtmon, D.M.A., MAPE President. “Congratulations to all of our award winners—your achievements are truly remarkable.”
“Your inspiring work and meaningful partnerships are making a powerful difference in advancing education and strengthening community engagement throughout Mississippi,” continued Girtmon. “We are deeply grateful for your commitment and proud of the lasting impact you continue to create.”
The Governor’s Award selection committee, composed of the MAPE Board of Directors, as well as representatives from business, industry, nonprofits, and education, judged each entry using a uniform set of criteria to measure the overall effectiveness of partnership activities.
For more information about the Pirate Excellence Foundation, visit www.PirateExcellence.org.
