The Mississippi State Board of Education has chosen Ray Morgigno, current executive director of the East Mississippi Center for Educational Development, to serve as the interim state superintendent of education. He will officially step into the role on July 1st, taking over from Mike Kent, whose temporary appointment ends June 30th.

Kent's appointment followed the state Senate's refusal to confirm Robert P. Taylor, a decision met with criticism, particularly from Black Democrats who believed Taylor's race and past writings on Mississippi's history of racism played a role in the rejection. Republicans, however, cited a desire for a candidate with a stronger track record in improving struggling schools.

Morgigno boasts nearly three decades of experience in Mississippi's public education system, having served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and district superintendent. The Board of Education expressed confidence in his ability to maintain the positive momentum in the state's education system while the search for a permanent superintendent is conducted.

With the assistance of a search firm, the board aims to select a permanent candidate by the end of 2023, who will then require confirmation by the state Senate during the 2024 legislative session.