The Jackson County Exceptional School (JCES) has been a safe, magical place for students with significant disabilities since 1969.  Located at 4311 Hospital Road, Pascagoula, MS 39581, we provide public school educational services to our students.  We serve students with a variety of special needs ranging from developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, to Autism Spectrum Disorder.  The school currently houses grades 1-12, and offers services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, adaptive PE, and vocational and life skills education.   Students are also afforded opportunities to participate with their non-disabled peers during art and music at neighboring schools.  Student groups love to visit to volunteer and work collaboratively with our students.

There are currently six certified teachers for academic core areas, one PE instructor, a nurse, a speech language pathologist, an occupational and physical therapist who serve based on student need.  We have a fabulous custodian, eleven teacher assistants, one cafeteria manager, one administrative assistant, and one principal.    

At the JCES, we serve students from the Pascagoula-Gautier, Moss Point, and Jackson County School Districts. Placement at the Exceptional School is based on an IEP committee decision in which students needs are reviewed. Each student is assessed, and all factors are considered before deciding on a placement at JCES.  We understand that every student is unique and deserves excellent instruction in a structured environment .  Our goal is to help our students develop their fullest potential intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. The curriculum goals are mandated by the Mississippi State Department of Education and aligned with the MAAP-A (Common Core State Standards) and  Mississippi Alternate Assessment of Extended Curriculum Frameworks for Science.

The school has a swimming pool for therapeutic activities that was donated by the late Dr. and Mrs. Nicholas  Di Santi. The pool was donated in memory of their son, the late Eddie Di Santi.

Currently 40 students are enrolled at the Exceptional School.  Community support allows us to offer annual events like "Trunk or Treat", Black History Celebrations and a Magical Mardi Gras Parade.   At JCES, we strive to bring active engagement to our students.  JCES Eagles are always looking for ways to rise in excellence.