Education

From pre-school to graduate school, Meridian offers quality education, including four nationally recognized Schools of Excellence and one of Mississippi's most highly acclaimed public school systems. Institutions of higher learning include Meridian Community College and Mississippi State University – Meridian Campus. The Meridian Community College Foundation underwrites the cost of four semesters of study at MCC for any graduate of a Meridian or Lauderdale County high school or any person residing in Lauderdale County who is home schooled. By enrolling in the fall following their spring graduation, students retain the Tuition Guarantee for four semesters, providing they maintain a 2.00 GPA and maintain at least 12 hours each semester.

In 2007, citizens of Meridian overwhelmingly approved a $19.5 million bond election for the Meridian Public School District. This High School Redesign request came from a year long study of the district's future needs by the "Framing the Future" taskforce composed of nearly 60 parents, teachers, principals and a diverse cross-section of citizens. Specific recommendations for capital improvements to Meridian's public schools are designed to ensure that all students meet the most rigorous standards in an excellent learning environment. Major areas targeted for funding include: physical renovations to schools; implementing small learning communities at Meridian High School; and a new, separate, state-of-the-art building for the ninth grade on the campus of Meridian High School that will provide more opportunity for effective and expanded learning.

Education and technical skills are a must in today's workplace. So, too, are the intangibles or soft skills that lead employees and their employers to greater success. In 2005, the EMBDC implemented School Counts as its leading education initiative. This education enhancement program targets the behavior skills of students and works in partnership with the business community. All businesses are encouraged to learn more about School Counts and how they can play an important role in the continuous improvement of tomorrow's workforce.

Local Schools

Healthcare

From state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment to the use of "play therapy" for children facing surgery, Meridian's three general acute care hospitals, as well as two long term acute hospitals, offer quality medical services for Lauderdale County, East Central Mississippi, and West Central Alabama.

Area Health Facilities

Recreation

Meridian has a well-rounded Parks & Recreation Department with activities for all ages throughout the year. The department provides enjoyment, recreation, and relaxation to over a half million people annually. There are a variety of sports complexes that support softball, baseball, soccer, tennis, and walking. Bonita Lakes features two large lakes and 3,300 acres of land making it the largest Urban Forest in the nation. Additionally, Meridian is home to Lake Okatibbee which offers 3,800 acres of boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. Meridian makes available four golf courses including Lakeview Public Golf Course, Briarwood Country Club, Naval Air Station Meridian, and Northwood Country Club.

Housing

Meridian is one of the faster growing communities in the state. Whether it's the first time homeowner who is just starting out, or it's the large family looking for a place to settle and plat roots, the area has an expansive directory of places to call home. Meridian also boasts of numerous new apartment and condominium complexes throughout the city. These complexes feature such amenities as swimming pools, tennis courts, work-out facilities and private club houses.

Attractions

Meridian is home to a number of historic and cultural attractions. Among these is the Meridian Little Theatre. Established in 1932, it features a 400-seat theatre, making it one of the largest community theatres in the Southeast. In addition, the Meridian Museum of Art serves as the region's premier public museum. Housed in a nationally listed landmark building, the museum offers more than 30 exhibitions annually.

Another well-known attraction is the Jimmie Rodgers Museum. Known as the Father of Country Music, Jimmie Rodgers was born and raised in the Meridian area, and this museum displays memorabilia of his interesting life and career. In operation since 1909, the Dentzel Carousel is a National Historic Landmark and the world's only two-row, stationary Dentzel menagerie in existence. Located in Highland Park, the carousel house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

One of Meridian's newest and most exciting attractions is the MSU Riley Center for Education & Performing Arts. Operated by Mississippi State University, the MSU Riley Center hosts a variety of arts and entertainment presentations, educational programs, conferences, and meetings. It provides a special place for social interaction and enhances the enjoyment of the arts, as well as further individual growth and learning.