By: CA Staff Writer | October 29, 2025
Clarksdale, Mississippi — Former Coahoma County School District (CCSD) Attorney Derek Hopson is speaking out amid recent controversy surrounding school board members’ decision to appoint an interim superintendent from outside the district, urging residents to recognize and protect the district’s hard-earned progress under Dr. Virginia Young’s leadership.
Appointing an interim superintendent from outside the district when there is an Assistant Superintendent, Crystal Gooden, who is more than competent, is nonsensical and a waste of taxpayers’ dollars.
In a statement reflecting both pride and concern, Hopson highlighted the district’s strong record over the past three years and questioned the motives behind efforts that may undermine its success.
“Coahoma County, where we all live, we cherish the fact that we have had a successful school district for the last three years. There being no known allegations of any criminal conduct with the handling of funds, why would any resident not be proud, under these facts and circumstances, of our district? We don’t have to like a winner, but we all should be able to have one and to respect one and to respect each other. When we, as a county, self-reflect in the mirror of time and look at the hourglass of the future, do we want proven leadership that’s in that rearview mirror at this time to continue into the future versus any unknown and unproven leadership? As a lifelong resident of Coahoma County, I will always stand with those who continue on the road of championships and continued academic success,” said Hopson.
Hopson’s words serve as both a defense of the current leadership and a call for board members to be good stewards and act as fiduciaries.
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