PDS was founded on the belief that "of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever."  This helps each of our students to develop his or her spiritual, intellectual, physical and social potential given by God the Creator. 

From where have we come and where are we now?

Presbyterian Day School was first organized in January of 1970.   Dr. Norman Harper, minister of the First Presbyterian Church of Clarksdale, had the vision for an elementary school program that would help each child to develop his or her spiritual, intellectual, physical and social potential given by God the Creator.   The school was founded on and continues to grow on the belief that “of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever.” (Romans 11:36) From its inception, PDS has “an obligation to a genuine commitment to the Christian faith”, according to Dr. Harper.  

The original Board of Trustees was chaired by Peter Vincent who was chairman for 35 years from 1970-2005.   Mr. Vincent’s contribution to PDS is immeasurable, and PDS owes a debt of gratitude to this servant of the Lord.   Mr. J.R. Weeks was Vice-Chairman; Betty Porter, Secretary; Ann Traylor, Treasurer; Sarah Jane Manker, Sonny Nabors and Elzy Smith.   Dr. Harper served as Headmaster and Mrs. Vivian Gibson as Principal as well as Fourth Grade Teacher.   

Presbyterian Day School has been a vital ministry of the First Presbyterian Church, Clarksdale for forty years.  The Senior Pastor of the church has always provided excellent oversight for the school in his dual role as Headmaster.  The church’s Session has provided oversight for the Board of Trustees which is made up of church members, school parents and other capable men and women of the Clarksdale community.   During the first half of the school’s existence, a general principal was employed to attend to the daily running of the school.  He or she was assisted by a classroom teacher serving also in the role of supervising principal.