JACKSON, TN — Jackson Energy Authority is expanding its support of the Jackson-Madison County School System with a $10,000 contribution to strengthen high school athletics across the district.

This investment will provide additional resources for athletics at multiple JMCSS high schools, marking the first time during the current administration that a corporate partner has made a contribution specifically supporting athletics across multiple campuses.

“In speaking with Dr. King, we cannot recall a corporate neighbor making a donation specifically for athletics that impacts multiple schools,” Districtwide Athletic Director Tony Black said. “It’s a first for this administration, and it highlights the momentum this community is experiencing in the area of public education.”

The contribution builds on a longstanding partnership between JEA and JMCSS that extends well beyond athletics.

“JEA partners with the local school system in a lot of different ways — the LOOP program, partner at Malesus STEM — and this is just another way for us to be a good neighbor and invest in our community and the future workforce of Jackson-Madison County,” said Ryan Porter, JEA senior vice president and chief operating officer.

Porter said athletics provides students with experiences and characteristics that can serve them well long after their playing days are over.

Tony Black is a graduate of Jackson Central-Merry High School; Ryan Porter from North Side High School, and Monte Cooper, JEA’s president/CEO, graduated from South Side High School.

(PHOTO: JEA’s donation to high school athletics will strengthen sports programs at South Side, Liberty Tech, Madison, North Side and JCM, providing enhanced opportunities for student-athletes across JMCSS)