Education a priority

By By Lynette Wilson / staff writer
September 8, 2002
Teaching good character traits to Mississippi students is the responsibility of both the public and the public schools, says the state's superintendent of education.
For the most part, Johnson said, the responsibility for character education rests on local school districts and the communities they serve, rather than the state department of education.
Johnson said local school boards have the authority to enforce dress codes and other disciplinary measures.
A state statue addressing character education exists, but the Department of Education doesn't determine specific codes of conduct in school districts, he said.
He added that the role of fostering character development and good behavior falls on the public as well.