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This story originally appeared in the Jackson Free Press. It was added to the Mississippi Free Press website in 2025.
Note that any opinions expressed in legacy Jackson Free Press stories do not reflect a position of the Mississippi Free Press or necessarily of its staff and board members.

JPS’ Power APAC presents an exhibition of student work, like this piece by former APAC student Kristen Lacey. Credit: Kristen Lacey

Public-school systems across the nation are making budget cuts that, in some cases, completely eliminate arts programs, be they large or small. Fortunately, Jackson Public Schools and its Academic and Performing Arts Complex share a unique vision: “to provide excellence in art and academics by providing intensive training for academically talented students through the provision of a strong scholastic and specialty enrichment program.”

Marilyn Martin, the principal and performing arts coordinator at the Star-ranked Power APAC, says proudly, “This is the only school like this in the state.”

The Arts Center of Mississippi will host the Power APAC Student Exhibit April 10-April 30, showcasing the talent of students in grades four through 12. The opening reception is April 10, 1-3 p.m.; see the exhibit Monday through Saturday,
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

For more information on this free exhibit, call the Greater Jackson Arts Council at 601-960-1557.

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The Mississippi Free Press produced this story through the MFP Solutions Lab, supported by the Solutions Journalism Network. This series digs into Mississippi’s systemic issues and sheds light on responses to them in other communities. Beyond just reporting on problems, these stories interrogate their causes and inspect potential solutions.