RAYMOND, Miss. — Hinds County School District and Hinds Community College officially launched the Hinds² Early College Academy with a signing ceremony held March 30 at the Shirley Hopkins Davis Amphitheater on the Utica campus of Hinds Community College.
The ceremony marked a significant step forward in expanding access to higher education for students across Hinds County, as district and college leaders formally solidified a partnership designed to bridge K-12 and postsecondary education. Through the Hinds² Early College Academy, students at Raymond High School and Terry High School will have the opportunity to earn college credit while still enrolled in high school.
The event featured reflections from district and college leadership, emphasizing a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students. “This is what it looks like when K-12 and higher education stop working in silos, but start working together,” said Superintendent Dr. Mitchell Shears. Hinds Community College President Dr. Stephen Vacik also reflected on the significance of the moment, particularly for the Utica campus. “For some, there was a feeling that Hinds Community College had forgotten about Utica,” Vacik said. “But look at us now.”
Following leadership remarks, attendees witnessed the official signing of the Hinds² Early College partnership agreement, along with the reveal of the program’s official logo, symbolizing a new chapter of collaboration and innovation between the two institutions. The ceremony also highlighted student talent, with performances from the Terry High School Band and the Raymond High School Choir, adding a celebratory and community-centered atmosphere to the occasion.
The Hinds² Early College Academy represents a continued commitment by Hinds County School District to innovation, access, and student success, ensuring that students are equipped with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive beyond high school.