JACKSON — New Jackson Public School District Superintendent Dr. Cedrick Gray is officially on the job. Gray discussed his upcoming plans for JPS at a July 2 press conference.

“Part of what we will be doing here is to create a school system that includes all members of the greater Jackson community,” he said, according to WJTV video from the conference.

He hopes many in the community will be more active and supportive of the district. Gray, who formerly served as the superintendent of Fayette County Public schools in Fayette County, Tenn., wants to bring members of his team with him.

Gray plans to hire four members from Fayette County Public schools: a deputy superintendent of instruction, a chief communications officer, and executive directors who would focus on finance and middle school academics. Their names have not been made public.

The new superintendent said he is “an advocate for children.” He wants to implement a student school board for students to address concerns to administrators and the school board.

Gray received various accolades from his former district such as district’s Lead Educator and Mentor Principal for New Leaders for New Schools. In his second year as principal, he earned a Principal of the Year nomination.

Born in Milwaukee, he moved to Memphis as a child. He now resides in North Jackson with his wife, Karen, and daughter Peyton.

Gray recognizes that the job ahead is challenging. “We have our hands full,” he added. “In order for us to be successful, we must work as a team.”