OSSD Superintendent Mike Lindsey Announces Retirement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 21, 2026  -  4:30 P.M.

 

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss (OSSD) -- Ocean Springs School District Superintendent Michael Lindsey announced on Wednesday his plans to retire on June 30th, concluding a career in Mississippi public education spanning more than 34 years.

 

“It has been an absolute honor to work for such an amazing and supportive school district and community. This decision has been made difficult by the incredible support I have received from our teachers, administrators, and the OSSD Board of Trustees,” Lindsey says. “One of the greatest rewards of this role has been celebrating the achievements of our students and educators alongside them.”

 

Lindsey is committed to leading the district until his last day to ensure a seamless transition for the students and staff of OSSD.

 

“While this announcement looks ahead to the future, there is still important work to do and I am fully committed to leading our district through the remainder of the school year,” he says. “We have a great deal to accomplish, including the continued transition from K-3 to K-4, the completion of planning for our new middle school, and maintaining the academic focus that has defined our success.”

 

Lindsey joined OSSD as superintendent in June of 2023, and quickly led the district to consecutive school years as Mississippi’s top-ranked public school district. Under his leadership, OSSD consistently scored among the top districts in the state in academics and athletics, and achieved numerous accolades in the arts. Lindsey oversaw the overhaul of the district’s strategic plan and successful bond campaign, as well as the construction of expanded elementary schools and future middle school.

 

Prior to joining OSSD, Lindsey spent three years as Assistant Superintendent for Pass Christian School District, where he oversaw PCSD’s operations and personnel departments. Prior to Pass Christian, Lindsey was Principal of Gulfport High School for 14 years. During his tenure as the Admirals high school principal, Lindsey was named 2014 Congressional District Administrator of the Year, and 2014 MDE Administrator of the Year for the state of Mississippi.

 

In his 35-year career, Lindsey has served Mississippi public education as a science teacher, assistant principal, head baseball coach, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. As far as his retirement plans, Lindsey says he is looking forward to spending time with his family.

 

The Board of Trustees will begin the process of identifying the district’s next superintendent to ensure a smooth and timely transition of leadership.