{"id":704,"date":"2023-10-09T11:02:44","date_gmt":"2023-10-09T16:02:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/?page_id=704"},"modified":"2026-06-21T19:34:25","modified_gmt":"2026-06-22T00:34:25","slug":"application","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/govschool\/application\/","title":{"rendered":"Teach at Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">Faculty applications open in January and are determined by March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2026\/06\/J5A2299-1024x683-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3750\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2026\/06\/J5A2299-1024x683-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2026\/06\/J5A2299-1024x683-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/27\/2026\/06\/J5A2299-1024x683-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Teach at Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School (MGS) seeks passionate educators, university faculty, professionals, artists, researchers, and subject-matter experts who are eager to engage some of Mississippi&#8217;s most talented high school students in a unique residential learning environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each summer, faculty play a critical role in shaping an experience that helps scholars discover new interests, broaden their perspectives, and envision their future contributions to Mississippi and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Who We Are Looking For<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Successful MGS faculty are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Experts in their field who can make complex ideas engaging and accessible<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Passionate about working with highly motivated learners<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Skilled facilitators of discussion, inquiry, and exploration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creative, flexible, and student-centered in their teaching<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Committed to creating an inclusive and respectful learning environment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enthusiastic about mentoring and inspiring young people<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Interested in helping scholars connect their talents and interests to future opportunities in Mississippi<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We welcome applications from university faculty, P-12 educators, researchers, artists, industry professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, and others with specialized expertise and a passion for working with gifted learners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Teaching Gifted Learners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many instructors, teaching at MGS becomes one of the most energizing and rewarding experiences of their careers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MGS scholars are curious, engaged, and eager to learn. They ask thoughtful questions, challenge assumptions, make unexpected connections, and often take classroom discussions in directions that even experienced instructors do not anticipate. These are students who choose to spend part of their summer learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Come prepared to move beyond traditional lectures. MGS scholars thrive when they are actively exploring ideas, solving problems, conducting research, creating projects, debating concepts, and engaging in hands-on learning experiences. They want to wrestle with complex topics, ask difficult questions, and understand how ideas connect to the real world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Their intellectual capacity is remarkable. They bring energy, creativity, curiosity, and perspectives that can transform a classroom. Faculty are often surprised by the depth of discussion, the quality of questions, and the level of engagement scholars bring to a topic they are passionate about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many faculty members arrive expecting to teach. They leave having learned as much from the scholars as the scholars learned from them. If you enjoy intellectual curiosity, meaningful discussion, hands-on exploration, and students who are genuinely excited to learn, there is nothing quite like teaching at MGS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Course Expectations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The MGS curriculum is intentionally dynamic and evolves each year. MGS scholars play an active role in shaping their academic experience. During the course selection process, scholars review course offerings and rank the subjects that most interest them. As a result, MGS classrooms are typically filled with highly motivated learners who have intentionally chosen to explore a particular topic and are eager to engage in meaningful discussion and exploration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Strong MGS courses:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Encourage curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reflect current scholarship, research, or professional practice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorporate active learning through discussion, projects, simulations, research, field experiences, or hands-on activities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foster intellectual exploration and thoughtful dialogue<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Introduce scholars to academic disciplines and career pathways<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Challenge scholars intellectually while remaining age-appropriate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Help students understand how their interests and abilities can contribute to their communities, state, and future professions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faculty are encouraged to move beyond traditional lecture-based instruction. Guest speakers, virtual presentations, demonstrations, simulations, creative projects, field-based learning experiences, and community engagement opportunities are all welcome components of an MGS course. Because their MGS schedule is jammed-packed, all learning and reading must take place within their course time block. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As part of the application process, faculty are required to submit a proposed course outline and curriculum plan for review. Submissions should include an overview of major topics, instructional activities, anticipated readings, videos, guest speakers, field experiences, projects, necessary supplies, and other significant course components planned during the two-week session. While adjustments may be made based on scholar interests and instructional needs, faculty should provide a thoughtful framework for the overall learning experience when applying to teach at MGS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Past instructors have incorporated researchers, industry professionals, artists, and community leaders into their classes through both in-person and virtual experiences. Faculty may utilize Mississippi University for Women\u2019s campus, downtown Columbus, local businesses, historical sites, and other community resources as extensions of the classroom when appropriate. Off-campus learning experiences may also be incorporated during class periods when coordinated and approved in advance of the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Professional Responsibilities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Challenge scholars academically while remembering they are still high school students entrusted to our care. When in doubt, ask first.<\/strong>  Faculty members represent Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School, Mississippi University for Women, and the State of Mississippi. All instructors are expected to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support the emotional and psychological well-being of scholars<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Respect the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of participants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adhere to all university, program, youth protection, and reporting policies, including Minors on Campus training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Model the character, leadership, and professionalism expected of future leaders<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exercise sound professional judgment when selecting course materials, media, examples, activities, and classroom discussions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the professional dispositions expected of individuals working with minors and representing MGS in both program activities and public settings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MGS values rigorous academic inquiry and the exploration of complex ideas. Scholars are capable of engaging with advanced concepts and often thrive when challenged intellectually. Faculty are encouraged to foster thoughtful discussion, critical thinking, and the examination of multiple perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MGS recognizes that gifted education is dynamic and that exceptional teaching often requires flexibility. While faculty submit course proposals and instructional plans in advance, we understand that instructors may adjust pacing, activities, discussion topics, and instructional approaches based on scholar interests, pre-assessments, emerging questions, and the natural progression of learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We trust our faculty&#8217;s expertise and professional judgment. MGS scholars are intellectually curious, highly capable learners who often benefit from exploring complex ideas, challenging questions, and advanced concepts that may extend beyond a traditional high school curriculum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>However, MGS scholars are also minors.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ability to engage students in sophisticated academic discussions does not eliminate the responsibility to maintain appropriate professional boundaries, exercise sound judgment, and select materials that are age-appropriate and educationally relevant. Faculty should carefully consider how discussions, examples, activities, media, videos, humor, and instructional materials support scholar learning while maintaining a safe and respectful environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Materials should have a clear educational purpose and be appropriate for a residential program serving students ages 15-17. Faculty should carefully evaluate videos, media clips, guest speakers, simulations, and other supplemental materials before using them in the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We encourage innovation, creativity, and intellectual exploration. The goal is not to avoid difficult topics, but to approach them with professionalism, purpose, and respect for the developmental needs of gifted adolescents. If faculty have questions about the appropriateness of a lesson, activity, discussion topic, video, media selection, guest speaker, or instructional material, they should consult with MGS leadership before implementation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Faculty Program Expectations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">MGS faculty contribute to the program both inside and outside the classroom. While academic instruction is the primary responsibility, faculty are encouraged to participate in the broader MGS community and help create a meaningful residential experience for scholars. Faculty typically teach one or two courses during the two-week session. Courses meet for approximately three hours each day and are scheduled in either the morning or afternoon, depending on program needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faculty are strongly encouraged to attend key program events, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Opening Convocation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scholar Presentations and Finals Night<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Closing Convocation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faculty are also invited to participate in meals, leadership activities, cultural programs, recreational events, and other scheduled activities as their availability permits. MGS values faculty who are willing to serve as mentors, share their professional experiences, and engage with scholars as members of the broader learning community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Inspiring Mississippi&#8217;s Future<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A central mission of MGS is helping Mississippi&#8217;s brightest students envision meaningful futures within our state. Faculty have a unique opportunity to introduce scholars to careers, industries, research opportunities, community leadership roles, and professional pathways that exist throughout Mississippi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We encourage instructors to connect course content to real-world challenges and opportunities, highlighting the many ways talented young people can build successful careers, strengthen their communities, and contribute to Mississippi&#8217;s future. Whether through education, healthcare, business, engineering, public service, entrepreneurship, the arts, agriculture, technology, or scientific research, scholars should leave MGS with a deeper understanding of how their talents can create positive change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most impactful MGS courses do more than teach content. They inspire scholars to think bigger, lead with purpose, and recognize their potential to shape the future of Mississippi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Compensation and Accommodations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faculty receive a stipend for their instructional responsibilities during the two-week program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition, MGS provides:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Meals throughout the program<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>On-campus housing accommodations for faculty traveling from outside the local area<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Classroom space and instructional support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Opportunities to engage with a statewide network of brilliant scholars, educators, and professionals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\">Why Teach at MGS?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Teaching at MGS is an opportunity to work with some of Mississippi&#8217;s most talented young people while contributing to a program that has influenced generations of scholars, professionals, educators, and leaders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Faculty often describe MGS as one of the most rewarding teaching experiences of their careers. If you are passionate about your field, committed to student growth, and excited about investing in Mississippi&#8217;s future, we invite you to submit a course proposal and join the MGS community. There&#8217;s nothing like teaching Mississippi&#8217;s best and brightest! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color has-background has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Help Us Reach Mississippi&#8217;s Hidden Talent<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School believes that giftedness, leadership potential, creativity, and academic excellence exist in every community across our state. Yet we know that many talented students, particularly those in rural, low-income, and historically underrepresented communities, may never hear about opportunities like MGS or may not receive the encouragement and support needed to apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We want MGS to reflect the full talent and potential of Mississippi. That means doing the hard work of reaching students beyond the schools and communities that have traditionally participated in the program. We are actively seeking stronger connections with public schools, counselors, educators, families, alumni, and community organizations who can help us identify and encourage students with exceptional potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you know students who would thrive at MGS, or if you would like to partner with us to expand awareness and access across Mississippi, please contact <strong><a>mgs@muw.edu<\/a><\/strong>. Together, we can help ensure that opportunity reaches every corner of our state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Faculty applications open in January and are determined by March. Teach at Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School Mississippi Governor&#8217;s School (MGS) seeks passionate educators, university faculty, professionals, artists, researchers, and subject-matter experts [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1291,"parent":699,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-704","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/704","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=704"}],"version-history":[{"count":24,"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/704\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3964,"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/704\/revisions\/3964"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/699"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1291"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.muw.edu\/education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=704"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}