Bailey APAC Ribbon Cutting Celebrates a New Era for Gifted Education

The Jackson Public School community gathered Thursday, July 24, to celebrate the transformation of Bailey APAC Middle School. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official reopening of the historic campus located at 1900 North State Street, now reimagined to meet the needs of today’s gifted learners.

Families, staff, scholars and district leaders filled the newly upgraded halls to reflect on the building’s rich legacy and celebrate the future ahead. The event opened with a warm welcome from Bailey APAC scholars Fidelis Malembeka and Maybelle McGuffey, who set the tone for a ceremony rooted in pride, progress, and purpose.

Bailey APAC Principal Robbie Ferguson shared the school’s renewed commitment to academic excellence, followed by heartfelt words from parent Dr. Angela Bass, who offered a personal perspective on the school’s impact. Deputy Superintendent Dr. Michael Cormack Jr. recapped the journey to a fully renovated campus, while Board President Barbara Hilliard reflected on the district’s vision for the future.

Among the most notable upgrades to the building are:

• A new roof and updated exterior drainage

• A modern four-pipe HVAC system

• Renovated restrooms and refinished wood floors

• LED lighting and new ceilings in corridors

• Restored classrooms for 4th and 5th grade Wells APAC students on the ground floor

• New stairway handrails, intercom system, fire alarm system, and sprinkler system

• Exterior pressure washing, fencing enhancements, and new water and sewer lines

These renovations represent a $19.6 million investment, funded by ESSER dollars, with design work by Eley Guild Hardy Architects and construction led by Alliant Construction. An additional $1.4 million has been invested in enhancements such as new furniture, upgraded bleachers, interior door hardware, and a soon-to-be-installed concrete pad and bike rack.

The celebration ended with a ribbon-cutting and guided tour of the revitalized campus, allowing attendees to experience the improvements firsthand.

Bailey APAC’s motto, “Honor in Action, Excellence in Achievement,” continues to shine through every hallway and classroom. As a home to Knowledgeable, Noble, Innovative, Gifted, Honorable, and Tenacious Scholars (K.N.I.G.H.T.S.). Bailey APAC remains committed to preparing future leaders with strong character and a drive for excellence.