Starkville, Mississippi, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Mississippi State University (MSU) and Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District (SOCSD) sign a memorandum of understanding to build a new high school on the MSU campus. The project, estimated to cost $5 million to $10 million, follows the successful opening of Partnership Middle School in 2020. The high school aims to ease student transitions into higher education and enhance educational opportunities. Plans for construction are underway, with an expected completion date by 2027.
Starkville, Mississippi – Mississippi State University (MSU) and the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District (SOCSD) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on building a new high school on the MSU campus. The signing occurred on Thursday, and it was celebrated as a significant event for both organizations and the community at large.
This partnership serves as the second collaboration between MSU and SOCSD, coming after the successful opening of Partnership Middle School in 2020. The new facility, Starkville High School, will be situated near the middle school and is anticipated to cost between $5 million and $10 million. Following a bond issue passed in July, funding for the new high school construction is now secured.
The specific timeline for construction has not yet been established, but the design phase is currently underway, expected to last about 6-8 months. The goal is to welcome students to the new facility by 2027. MSU’s contribution to the project will primarily consist of donating property and providing some in-kind services.
Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill highlighted the historic nature of this agreement for the local community. SOCSD Superintendent Dr. Tony McGee emphasized how the location of the high school on a college campus could ease the transition for students heading into higher education.
While previous discussions included the potential launch of another high school, specifically the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS) on the MSU campus, those plans have since changed. Ongoing conversations now regard the possibility of establishing a new specialty school focusing on education in fields like engineering or cybersecurity instead.
The MOU outlines the shared objectives and responsibilities between MSU and SOCSD in terms of planning and operating the new high school. However, further details relating to finances and operational matters are yet to be finalized. SOCSD has received authorization to borrow up to $125 million for the high school construction, although officials intend to keep borrowing levels lower to avoid overburdening taxpayers.
Additionally, MSU aims to enhance educational opportunities for students at the new high school, potentially extending programs that are already available at Partnership Middle School. The collaboration is structured to allow for further discussions and adjustments regarding responsibilities and partnerships as the project progresses.
Future Outlook
The development of the new Starkville High School represents a strategic investment in local education, highlighting the commitment of both MSU and SOCSD to work together for the benefit of students. With the expected completion by 2027, stakeholders are optimistic about the opportunities this new facility will provide for the young residents of Starkville.
Chart: Key Features of the New Starkville High School
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | MSU Campus |
| Cost | $5 million – $10 million |
| Funding | Bond issue passed in July, potential borrowing up to $125 million |
| Design Phase | Ongoing, expected to take 6-8 months |
| Opening Year | Expected by 2027 |
FAQ
What is the purpose of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between MSU and SOCSD?
The MOU establishes mutual goals and responsibilities between MSU and SOCSD for planning and operating the new high school.
When is the expected opening year for the new Starkville High School?
The goal is to welcome students at the new facility by 2027.
Where will the new high school be located?
The new Starkville High School will be built near Partnership Middle School on the MSU campus.
How much has SOCSD been authorized to borrow for the construction of the new high school?
SOCSD has been authorized to borrow up to $125 million for the high school construction.
What is the estimated cost for the new high school?
The estimated cost for the new high school is between $5 million and $10 million.
What will MSU’s role be in the new high school project?
MSU plans to contribute mainly through the donation of property and some in-kind services, as well as providing learning opportunities for students.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WCBI: Starkville High is Moving to MSU
- Starkville School District: New Era as MSU and SOCSD Ink Partnership
- Clarion Ledger: MSMS No Longer Part of Starkville High School Plan
- WTVA: MSU and Starkville School District Partner for New High School
- Wikipedia: Starkville, Mississippi
- Google Search: Starkville High School MSU
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Starkville
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
