The Mississippi Children’s Museum (MCM) announced an expansion of its educational and workforce development program just a month after being ranked one of the top three children’s museums in the United States by USA Today.

The LIFT, the museum’s educational arm, focuses on statewide outreach, workforce development, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), and literacy training for teachers while providing educational opportunities for students.

Jackson Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Michael L. Cormack, Jr. expressed pride in the museum’s national recognition, stating, “The Mississippi Children’s Museum is a gift to Jackson and the entire state of Mississippi.” He emphasized the museum’s ongoing commitment to the success and development of Mississippi’s children and educators.

In February, USA Today named the Mississippi Children’s Museum the third-best children’s museum in the country as part of their 2024 Reader’s Choice Travel Awards. Mississippi Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann applauded the museum’s efforts to invest in the state’s children.

State House Representative Shanda Yates, District 64, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the museum’s dedication to the next generation of Mississippians.

President of the Mississippi Children’s Museum, Susan Garrard, expressed gratitude for the national recognition and outlined the museum’s expanded focus on education, outreach, and workforce development through The LIFT program.

The museum’s expansion includes two new features: The City Lab and The Nest. The City Lab will be an interactive STEAM exhibit gallery providing hands-on training in digital technologies and computer science for educators and students. Meanwhile, The Nest will serve as an inspirational educator resource center, offering teachers access to instructional materials and networking opportunities.

Additionally, the museum is expanding its after-school program, which currently serves over 130 students in Jackson and Meridian, to provide enriching programs spanning various subjects.

Garrard emphasized the museum’s long-term impact: “Through programs like The LIFT, we are setting children up to be successful adults. We have a chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of Mississippians for decades to come.”