STARKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Starkville High School serves all 9th-12th grade students in the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District and offers a high school experience rich in academics, arts, athletics, extra-curricular activities and advanced studies. Anchored by a dynamic and award-winning staff, SHS is committed to providing each student with a personalized education in a student-centered, 21st century learning environment that inspires critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration and communication.

In 2025, Starkville High was awarded an A-rating by the Mississippi Department of Education, based in part on state test scores from the Mississippi Academic Assessment Program (MAAP), ACT college entrance exam performance, Career and Technical Education enrollment and other factors.

ACADEMICS

The Starkville High School curriculum centers around providing a variety of academically challenging and career-centered opportunities designed to help students discover their passion, purpose and potential. Through hands-on and engaging project-based learning combined with strategic career-exploration and opportunities for job shadowing and internships, SHS leverages students' personal interests to prepare them for excellence after high school – whether their goals are college, the military, entrepreneurship or the workforce.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE)

Partnered with the Millsaps Career & Technology Center, located on the SHS campus, Starkville High offers an array of Career and Technical Education (CTE) course offerings that enable students to graduate with Mississippi's CTE Endorsement. Beginning in 9th grade, students may choose to pursue one of thirteen CTE pathways. The 2-year programs connect to real-world career opportunities through meaningful and hands-on instruction, participation in national skills-based student organizations, opportunities to earn national industry-related certifications, and work-based learning. From Health Sciences, Digital Media and Agriculture to Engineering, Construction and Unmanned Aviation, the CTE programs available at Starkville High help students leave high school with learning, certifications, and real-world experiences that prepare them to be workforce- and future-ready. More than 34% of SHS graduates are 2-year CTE completers.

ADVANCED STUDIES

More than 45% of SHS graduates earn a Mississippi Academic, Distinguished Academic or Career & Technical diploma endorsement. Students may earn college credit while still in high school, including pursuing a community college Associate's Degree while also earning their high school diploma. Through partnerships with East Mississippi Community College and Mississippi State University, Starkville High offers more than 50 dual credit/enrollment courses for 11th and 12th graders. In addition, students may choose to take one of 15 Advanced Placement courses. The MSU Early Honors Academy is a partnership with the Mississippi State University Shackouls Honors College designed to challenge advanced learners during their senior year. Students may also gain real-world research experience through the MSU BASE Pair program or choose to earn the highly regarded National Seal of Biliteracy in language proficiency. In addition, SHS offers embedded ACT prep, and all students may take the college entrance exam in both 10th and 11th grade at no cost. More than 34% of SHS graduates earn membership in national honors organizations, including National Honor Society, National BETA Club and National Technical Honor Society.

ARTS

Jackets can pursue their interests in the arts through award-winning visual arts, choral music, theater, band and piano instruction. The arts programs at Starkville High School offer students real-world experiences in the visual and performing arts that garner yearly statewide and national acclaim. Both dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses are offered in the arts. Student interested in music, may participate in large and small ensembles, including advanced instruction in Gospel Choir, Indoor Percussion and Jazz Band as well as the opportunity for training in classical, folk or spiritual academically focused art repertoire appropriate for collegiate auditions.

ACTIVITIES

Students can pursue their passion, discover their purpose and achieve their potential through more than 25 clubs and nationally affiliated skills-based, honors, and service organizations available on campus. SHS Ambassadors serve as the school's tour guides and information source for students and families. Student Government offers an array of leadership opportunities that allow students first-hand involvement in shaping student life at SHS. Each CTE pathway and Academic House offers nationally affiliated organizations centered around career interests that provide resume-building opportunities for service and mastery of skills. Honors organizations like BETA Club, National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society provide opportunities for students who excel in the classroom. Click here for a list of extracurricular clubs and activities offered at Starkville High School.

ATHLETICS

Home of the 2022 State Football Champion Yellow Jackets, and the historic 2025 State Champion Boys and Girls Basketball teams, the Starkville High School fanbase supports 19 sports with student pep rallies, parades, events and a vibrant home team "Nest" at each athletic venue.