Education stories in Memphis

The proposed $11.9 million funding for a new Treadwell K-8 school is under review by Shelby County commissioners, who question its priority over deferred maintenance for existing schools. Mayor Lee Harris has been advocating for the project, which aims to address critical school infrastructure needs.

Mississippi's chamber of commerce and workforce development office are collaborating to improve the state's talent pool through a new council. This initiative aims to align education with job market needs, particularly as Amazon expands its data centers in the state.

A federal appeals court is considering an appeal regarding Arkansas' 2023 library obscenity law, which has faced legal challenges. The law's provisions could impose criminal liability on librarians and restrict access to certain materials.

A new bill, SB0341, proposes that schools with over 600 students must hire a full-time licensed school counselor. This initiative aims to enhance student support in Tennessee schools.

Leadership Preparatory Charter School and other Memphis charter schools are seeing significant improvements in math proficiency, outpacing traditional public schools. This growth follows a shift in teaching strategies to allow more flexibility and autonomy for teachers.

James Jin, a recent graduate from White Station High School, has transformed his ADHD from a challenge into a strength through art. He will be attending Yale University this fall after achieving academic success despite early struggles.

Shelby County Commissioners are set to reconsider a significant amendment to the pre-K funding structure aimed at providing universal access. The proposed changes would allow multiple entities to manage funds, addressing concerns over administrative costs and oversight.

The chair of the Haywood County school board has resigned following backlash over a Facebook comment deemed racially charged. The local NAACP has condemned the remarks as 'racially driven and dangerous.'

Allen Currie, chairman of the Haywood County School Board, has resigned following backlash over a social media post deemed racist by the NAACP. Currie acknowledged his poor judgment and expressed regret for the pain caused to the community.

Superintendent Ted Horrell of the Lakeland School System has received top marks in his annual performance evaluation. This recognition comes as the district celebrates the graduation of its first high school senior class.

The J.U.M.P. Academy is hosting its second annual Summer Enrichment Camp, providing a free and engaging environment for children. The program focuses on physical wellness, academic enrichment, creative expression, and social-emotional development.

A Memphis middle school teacher, Matthew Spencer, was shocked to receive a hotel bill exceeding $1 million due to a cyber-attack. The erroneous charge from a Blytheville, Arkansas hotel has since been reversed after he reached out for help.

A new report reveals that while Mississippi maintains a strong education ranking, it ranks last in child health outcomes in the U.S. The KIDS COUNT Data Book highlights ongoing struggles in economic well-being and family stability.

An annual report reveals that Arkansas has made some improvements in child well-being, ranking 43rd nationwide, but still faces significant challenges. Advocates call for state policy changes to address issues in child health and education amid looming federal cuts.

The Knox County Board of Education voted to urge the Tennessee General Assembly to revisit the controversial Age Appropriate Materials Act. This follows the recent ban and subsequent reinstatement of Alex Haley's 'Roots' in school libraries, highlighting ongoing debates over censorship in education.

The Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board is considering closing SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy due to financial issues. This raises questions about the board's constitutional authority over public schools, as the Mississippi Constitution designates the Board of Education for such oversight.

A new study reveals that Memphis charter schools are improving math scores through a standardized lesson plan and regular data reviews. Leadership Preparatory Charter School found that strict adherence to scripted curricula may have hindered some teaching effectiveness.

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center has raised over $11 million towards its $50 million goal for a new interdisciplinary College of Medicine building. This funding follows a significant $311 million state allocation for the project.

The Hazlehurst City School District board voted to replace Superintendent Cloyd Garth Jr. with Nonya Thrasher as interim superintendent. This leadership change comes as the district faces a Mississippi Department of Education probe over accreditation violations.

State lawmakers in Mississippi are exploring school district consolidations to reduce bureaucracy and improve leadership in struggling districts. The initiative aims to enhance educational outcomes for students in low-performing schools.

Two students from Central High School are set to represent their school in the finals of the Presidential AI Challenge. This competition highlights innovative student projects in artificial intelligence.

Mississippi is currently engaged in discussions regarding potential school consolidation plans aimed at improving educational efficiency. The debates focus on the implications of merging smaller school districts to enhance resource allocation and student outcomes.

The MPLOY Summer Program has achieved a record number of participants this year, providing valuable work experience to Memphis students. This initiative aims to equip youth with essential skills and enhance their employability.

Denise Jones Gregory, the new president of Jackson State University, will undergo a year of leadership training as she takes on a role marked by instability. This initiative aims to address ongoing challenges such as student housing shortages and strained alumni relations.

The Tennessee Senate and House have passed a bill for a takeover of Memphis-Shelby County Schools, focusing on the district's lowest-performing schools. This move raises concerns about potential school closures and its impact on poor students, as advocates emphasize the need for a holistic approach to poverty and education.

Memphis-Shelby County Schools is collaborating with the Ed Murphey Classic to offer a free track and field clinic for students. This initiative aims to introduce young athletes to the sport and foster their development.

Two former school superintendents and a teacher have been sentenced for embezzling nearly $400,000 from the Department of Education. The case highlights issues of trust and accountability in educational leadership.

The University of Memphis Board of Trustees has approved a tuition increase for students ranging from 2.2% to 4.48%, effective fall 2026. Additionally, President Bill Hardgrave will receive a $100,000 performance bonus as part of his contract.

Counselors for the Arkansas Girls State program have resigned en masse, citing mistreatment as their reason. However, members of the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) have refuted these claims, leading to a dispute over the program's management.

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