THE BRIDGE weekly update is a platform to keep stakeholders connected and informed about upcoming events and District initiatives. 

We are THE BRIDGE to our community’s identity. The authentic character and soul that defines the 901 is reflected in every one of our schools. We are the second-largest employer and our graduates fuel the local workforce — the success of MSCS is tied to the economic vitality of Greater Memphis.

Together, we MUST BELIEVE.

Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.

Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.

REIMAGINING 901: District Rebrand Approved by Board

The Shelby County Board of Education has officially voted to rebrand our District as Memphis-Shelby County Schools. A name is our greatest connection to ownership and identity. With more than 80 percent of students living in the city limits of Memphis, changing our name will reflect the District’s geographic location and the families we serve. Rebranding is one of several strategies as we reimagine education, schools, and communities while raising the national profile of our District.

Some phases of the rebrand will begin immediately and full implementation can take up to five years to complete. At this time, the District’s current logo has not changed. The new MSCS logo is tentatively scheduled to be revealed at the State of the District on February 23. Refer to the FAQs below for approved usage.

The District’s DBA (doing business as) has changed from Shelby County Schools to Memphis-Shelby County Schools; however, the District will keep its legal name as “Shelby County Board of Education.” The community will begin to see changes, including new imagery, across our social media platforms and website. A planning committee composed of the District’s executive team is leading a project plan to outline additional phases and prioritize the short-term and long-term goals.

For questions, please email communications@scsk12.org.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the District’s plan for rebranding? Why now? 

When legacy Memphis City Schools merged with Shelby County Schools, it naturally adopted the SCS name and logo because they represent the entirety of the county landscape. What we know is that more than 80 percent of students live in the city limits of Memphis. Rebranding is one of several Reimagining 901 strategies as we reimagine education, schools, and communities while raising the national profile of our District. Rebranding the District includes implementation of a new logo, signage replacement, website redesign, community and branding awareness, etc. The rebrand proposal was presented last spring at the State of the District. It's now time to move forward with implementation. 

When is this change happening? 

The Shelby County Board of Education approved the recommendation to change the DBA (doing business as) name of the District from Shelby County Schools to Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) at its business meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022. The DBA name change took place immediately after the Board vote. The District will keep its legal name as “Shelby County Board of Education”. Some phases of the rebrand will begin immediately and full implementation can take up to five years to complete. 

Will the District need/ask for more money for the rebrand?

No, the District will not seek additional funds for the rebrand. As with any large organization or company, we have designated funds in the District budget for marketing and awareness campaigns.

Will my District email change? 

Yes, the Information Technology team will be updating District staff email addresses to reflect the new name. Please continue to use your scsk12.org email address until notified of your new email address.

Will the District website change? What about social media accounts?

Yes, a new domain has been secured by the District, and we will share the website link once the site has been migrated. We are in the process of updating references to the name change (new DBA) throughout the site. District social media account names will not change immediately.

Do I need to remove all SCS logos from my school, office, or building?

At this time, it is not necessary for employees to remove or discard all SCS-branded items. The full implementation of the rebrand will happen in phases. You will receive updated guidance, as we approach each phase.

What logo should I use on documents or promotional items? 

The SCS logo should no longer be used on new materials. For time-sensitive items that need a District logo, use the updated Reimagining 901 logo. The new Memphis-Shelby County Schools logo tentatively will be revealed at the State of the District, Feb. 23, 2022. Some phases of the rebrand will begin immediately and full implementation can take up to five years to complete. You will receive updated guidance, as we approach each phase.

How should I refer to the District? 

Please now refer to the District as Memphis-Shelby County Schools verbally, in correspondence, on new documents, in promotional items, etc. For time-sensitive printing and presentations that need a District logo, use the Reimagining 901 logo. 

What are the legal next steps related to using the Memphis-Shelby County Schools name and/or imagery? 

The District’s legal team will be providing additional information about trademark and intellectual property rights. More information is forthcoming.

Where can I direct my questions or feedback about the rebrand?

We will be hosting engagement meetings with principals and other District leaders to discuss FAQs and allow for questions and feedback. Additionally, questions may be submitted to communications@scsk12.org.

District Releases 2021 Lead Water Testing Results—Amid Remediation Implementation, MSCS Drinking Water Sources Remain Offline

Memphis-Shelby County Schools, as well as other school districts in Tennessee, are required by law to conduct biennial lead water testing at its schools to ensure all water sources meet federal and state guidelines. MSCS last tested its water sources in 2019. The latest round of testing was conducted during the 2021 winter break with the District recently receiving results.   

BACKGROUND AND REMEDIATION

• All MSCS drinking water sources have remained offline throughout the pandemic.
• The District's full remediation plan is in progress; however, MSCS reprioritized phases of implementation due to the impact of COVID-19 and supply chain shipment delays.
• The remediation plan and presentation was shared last spring with the Board and County Commission.
• The Board and Administration have allocated ESSER (COVID-19 relief) funding to implement a remediation plan that includes replacing all drinking water sources (in progress) and installing water bottle filling stations.

Click here to access the test results and information on the remediation process in detail.

MSCS Hiring Fair: February 10

MEMPHIS-SHELBY COUNTY SCHOOLS IS HIRING!

Join us for our Job Fair, Thursday, February 10 from 11 am to 5 pm at Memphis-Shelby County Schools Board of Education located at 160 S. Hollywood St. We are hiring for ALL positions including skilled craftsmen, academic support, behavioral health, truck drivers, electricians, and more. 

We offer competitive wages, excellent benefits, and fantastic opportunities to take your career to the next level. Stop by our Job Fair on Thursday, February 10 and learn more about these amazing opportunities.

Reimagine yourself with MSCS!

STEM Teacher Recruitment Expo

The MSCS Division of College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE) recently hosted its STEM Teacher Recruitment Expo at the Halloran Centre for Performing Arts and Education! Graduating college seniors were invited to the fair to learn more about pursuing an occupation in STEM Education or other STEM careers. Attendees had the opportunities to receive onsite interviews, network with STEM peers, engage in informational sessions, and more.

MSCS Ready Grads - MATA CEO Hosts Partnership Pop-In

MATA CEO Gary Rosenfeld conducted a 

Partnership Pop-In with MSCS middle and high school students. Rosenfeld discussed the impact MATA has on the city of Memphis as well as the multiple career opportunities with the company. 

Formally referred to as Vocational Technology (Vo-Tech), CCTE is how we're reimagining education and preparing students for college and careers while in high school.

It’s the most valuable high school experience a student can get! From STEM, business and manufacturing to health services, hospitality, IT, and many more, students have access to dozens of college courses and job certifications in high-demand fields while they’re in high school. Plus, our Early College programs allow students to take courses for credit on local college campuses, and our industry partners provide exciting opportunities for internships and job placement.

Click here to learn more.

Support teachers as a CCTE Advisor with the Division of College, Career, and Technical Education. An Advisor helps build CCTE curriculum to ensure student college and career readiness.

Click here to apply!

Soaring to New Heights: Four Students Receive

their FAA Licenses

Congratulations to several East High T-STEM Academy students who recently received their FAA licenses! three students received their drone pilot licenses and one receive their private pilot license. The group was recognized during the MSCS January Board Busines Meeting for their awesome achievement.

Become an Event Sponsor! State of the District: February 23

SAVE THE DATE! The 3rd annual State of the District address will take place on Wednesday, February 23 at 11 a.m. This year's address, Progress Report, is a special update about the strengths and opportunities of Reimagining 901. This event will be streamed across District platforms.

Imagine every student attending a school with modern facilities, a wide array of creative and competitive programs, robust technology, and resources to accelerate learning and strong social-emotional supports to help overcome barriers to success. It requires transformational vision and action, which means we must consider all options for our students.

BECOME AN EVENT SPONSOR

The support of partners like you will help bring our vision of REIMAGINING education, communities, and schools in the 901 to life. A portion of your investment will support the District’s literacy initiatives.

Click here to learn more about the benefits of becoming an event sponsor!

Celebrating Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, Memphis-Shelby County Schools recognizes the rich history of Black culture and community in the 901 with a series of events and activities engaging our students, families, and stakeholders. We are also encouraging our schools and families to share creative and inspirational messages, photos, and videos about the importance and impact of African American history on social media using #BHM901. Here is a list of District-wide activities taking place a month long.

Click here to see the collaborative list of how we will honor and pay homage to black history-our history.  

2022 School Board Appreciation Week Recap

MSCS was proud to join public school districts across the state to celebrate School Board Appreciation Week in Tennessee, January 23-29, 2022. This year's theme, “Building the Future,” reminded us to recognize the unique role school boards play in building a future for their students, championing and advocating for quality education, and governing public schools.

Guided by their support, the District has implemented robust policies and supported several high-impact initiatives including increasing teacher compensation and developing a trauma-responsive district that builds and maintains supportive learning environments while providing social-emotional growth support.

Shelby County Commissioners Willie Brooks, Jr. and Tami Sawyer recognized our Board Members during the January Board Business Meeting. The Shelby County Board of Commissioners recently donated 300,000 face masks to our students.

Weekly Gems: School Board Appreciation Week

Check out this special edition of our Weekly Gems Update featuring highlights of our awesome Board Members as they were recognized throughout the schools they serve!

District Announces Retirement of Chief of Security

Last week, we announced the retirement of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Chief of Safety and Security, Gerald Darling.

Chief Darling has been instrumental in the reduction of major incidents in our schools. We’re extremely grateful for his commitment to safety on behalf of our students and staff. He has devoted much of his life to service, and we send him well wishes and fulfillment on his retirement and next chapter. Under his leadership, MSCS was selected as one of only six cities to participate in the Department of Justice National Forum on Youth Violence Crime Reduction Plan along with the City of Memphis.

Darling, a 13-year veteran at MSCS, was recognized by the District, local dignitaries, and law enforcement during a retirement celebration in his honor.

Click here to read more on Darling's retirement.

Minority and Women-Owned Small Business Enterprise Virtual Pre-Certification Workshop: February 2

As we continue to provide opportunities to connect with our community, the MSCS Department of Minority and Women-Owned Small Business Enterprise is hosting their Virtual Pre-Certification Workshop on Wednesday, February 2 at 11:00 a.m. During this event, the department will share details about MWSBE certification requirements and procedures, as well as provide business owners with information on how to do business with the District.

Having a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) and/or Small Business (SBE) certification can help you tap into various public and private sector programs!

Click here to register!

2022 Alumni Hall of Fame: Nominations Now Open!

The time has come again for us to celebrate the best and brightest of Memphis-Shelby County Schools by honoring esteemed alumni at the annual Alumni Hall of Fame Gala. This spring, we will pay tribute to individuals who have inspired others through 

visual arts. Visual artistry includes painting, graphic design, illustration, sculpture, literature, architecture, film, music, theater, and fashion.

If you know of any notable legacy MCS or SCS graduates who’ve used their skills and talents to motivate, inspire, and connect different cultures through art, while expressing innovation and character in various formations, nominate them to be a 2022 MSCS Alumni Hall of Fame inductee by Friday, February 4 at 5 p.m. (CST) 

Past honorees who have excelled in the arts include actress Kathy Bates, Larry Dodson and James Alexander of The Bar-Kays, songwriter/producer David Porter, and Elvis Presley. Our Alumni Hall of Fame members make our city and District proud of all that they have accomplished after graduating from our schools. Now, new honorees will join the ranks of the distinguished hall of famers in the spring!

Be sure to share this nomination form with family, friends, and colleagues. Everyone is welcome to share their suggestions during the nomination period, Friday, January 28 through Friday, February 4.

School Choice Online Application Now Open!

The School Choice online application is now open! Whether you’re looking for a school with a specialized learning focus and competitive entry requirements, an innovative setting to meet your child’s unique learning needs or a traditional setting in your neighborhood with a broad set of courses and extracurricular offerings, we’ve got the most choices for students and families. Search for any school by grade level or program.

Click here to learn more.

Rock En-Rollment: Early Registration for 2022-23 School Year Now Open

Early ONLINE registration for the 2022-23 school year is NOW OPEN for all students. Parents are asked to contact our Student Equity Enrollment & Discipline (S.E.E.D.) office for any questions at 901-416-6007.

Click here to learn more.

Students Work to Build Confidence and Create Healthier Lifestyles Through Ongoing Partnership

Students at Evans Elementary are stepping up to create healthier lifestyles, while building characteristics to become better world citizens. The Girls On The Run Club was implemented at the school at the start of the 2020 school year. Under the program at Evans, female students in grades 3-5 meet each week to discuss adolescence, challenges they face among their peers, changes in their bodies and how to build their confidence. The age group is historically noted as an important time for laying the foundations of good health. 

Click here to read more on this transformative partnership.

ESSER In Action:

Learn How MSCS is Utilizing COVID-19 Relief Funding to Support District Improvements

The District has begun solidifying approximately $503 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding. As MSCS reimagines education, schools, and communities, we’re continuing to use research-based strategies over the next

3-5 years to address equitable academic opportunities and learning gaps with COVID-19 relief funding. 

For more information on how MSCS is using ESSER funds, click here.

Third Grade Commitment



MSCS identifies student achievement as its highest priority. The Board voted on a revision to Policy 5013 Promotion and Retention which ensured we hold district and school leaders, teachers, and all stakeholders accountable towards ensuring MSCS students have the necessary reading skills to be successful before they reach the third grade.

The 3rd Grade Commitment is a collaborative effort between schools, parents, and our community towards ensuring we all work together to best help MSCS students reach reading readiness before the third grade.

Click here to learn more about the Third Grade Commitment.

"White Station girls basketball is setting out to make history." - ABC24

"Reset rooms help Shelby County Schools students turn negative behavior to positive." - FOX13 Memphis

"The Shelby County School District ushered in the new year with a big to-do list, from registration efforts to helping students and educators get tested and vaccinated against COVID." - WREG

"New program for teens hopes to address healthcare worker shortage" - WMC

"James Wiseman’s East High School basketball jersey retired." - FOX13 Memphis



In Case You Missed It

The Work Continues: Celebrating 3 Years as Superintendent

I’m fortunate and extremely honored to lead the very District where I was once a student. THANK YOU to our School Board for your advocacy and our educators, administrators, students, and families for your support of my leadership. The number "3" symbolizes wholeness. It is the number of harmony, wisdom, and understanding.

In just three short years, with the steadfast support and HEART WORK of the MSCS Family, we've made progress on a number of initiatives as we Reimagine 901:

• Championing innovative and transformational programs across the District
• Expanding before, during, and after-school tutoring programs
• Increasing access to Advanced Placement and honors classes for all students
• Investing in 21st century schools and classrooms
• Acquiring and distributing one-to-one devices for all students in record time
• Opening the Medical District High School
• Implementing a foreign language immersion program
• Instituting a living wage for all employees
• Establishing a step-and-lane pay structure for teachers
• Restructuring leadership to prioritize academic achievement
• Investing in the District's social-emotional supports for students and families
• Rebranding the District as Memphis-Shelby County Schools to reflect the community we serve
• 2021 Superintendent to Watch as named by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA)
• 2021 Feature in Joint AASA/Corwin Publication: Spirit Work and the Science of Collaboration
• 2021 Courage in Politics Award from WLOK
• 2021 Distinguished Educator Award from the Tennessee Association (TEA)
• 2021 YMCA of Memphis Red Triangle Award from the YMCA of Memphis
• 2020 Green-Garner Superintendent of the Year Award Finalist

Several MSCS Schools Recognized for Successful Implementation of TN Behavioral Prevention

and Intervention System

Nearly 100 MSCS campuses are being recognized for successfully planning and implementing the state Framework for Response to Intervention2-Behavior (RtI2-B), a multi-tiered system approach to building a positive culture for student learning and engagement while creating a fulfilling environment for staff. These schools are among those named for the School of Recognition and Model of Demonstration Awards for the 2021-2022 School Year. 

Here’s an account of the MSCS schools in each category:

Forty-one (41) MSCS schools achieved School

of Recognition level.

Recognized school teams demonstrate a commitment to creating positive school climates and shaping their environments to be places where students can be successful.

Fifty-five (55) MSCS schools received the Bronze Model Of Demonstration level.

Schools are implementing Tier I with fidelity as evidenced by Tier I Implementation Manuals, office discipline referral data, regular meeting operating procedures, and fidelity measures scores.

Three (3) MSCS schools achieved the Silver Model of Demonstration level.

Schools demonstrated fidelity of implementation of Tier I and Tier II interventions and practices.

RtI2-B is the framework that ensures a progressive behavior prevention and intervention support system is adopted by all schools. The framework was launched at MSCS in 2019-20 as a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) strategy to serve two primary purposes. 

Click here to read more on this awesome achievement.

MSCS Restructures Substitute Teacher Compensation Package: Increased Daily Rates

We have restructured our substitute teacher compensation package to include an increased daily rate!

Benefits of serving as a substitute teacher in MSCS include having the flexibility to work around your preferred schedule, working on a variety of great campuses across the District, and working in collaboration with our excellent educators. Being a substitute teacher potentially opens more opportunities for full-time positions. 

Click here to learn more about this awesome compensation package!

New Teacher Academy Launches to Guide

New MSCS Educators

The NEW Teacher Academy (NTA), created by our District's award-winning HR team provides a professional development program for new educators before entering the classroom and throughout the year. Check out highlights from our inaugural class!

District Partners with the PeerPower Foundation to Launch New Workforce Development Program

In partnership with the PeerPower Foundation comes a new workforce development program that pays students to TUTOR their peers in early grades. Students attended orientation for the new program this past weekend. Partnerships like these are essential in our efforts of REIMAGINING 901!

WORKFORCE READY: MSCS Department of Student Affairs Launches New Internship Program

This past weekend, our Department of Student Affairs kicked off its new Internship Program! These ambitious juniors and seniors will gain valuable workplace experience, explore career paths relative to their interests, and build relationships with industry professionals.

Deputy Superintendent Recognized During

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.'s Founders' Day Celebration

Congratulations to our Deputy Superintendent of Schools and Academic Support, Dr. Angela Whitelaw, for receiving the 2022 Moving MAC Forward Award at

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.'s 109th Founders' Day Celebration.

This is a well-deserved honor for our servant leader and forward thinker.

A. Maceo Walker School Makes A Slam-Dunk In Grizzlies Mentor Program

The Memphis Grizzlies have named A. Maceo Walker Middle School the 2022 Business Partnership of the Year under the Mentor Memphis Grizzlies Program. The award highlights the outstanding mentoring work happening each week at the school. The partnership is designed to leverage the mentor relationship to better prepare students for success. 

Click here to learn more about this great recognition.

ESSER in Action: Water Bottle Filling Stations Coming Soon To All Schools

As we're reimagining schools, we have invested $5 million of ESSER (COVID-19 relief funds) to purchase and install 3,000 bottle filling stations in all District-managed schools and administration buildings.

These filling stations will minimize plastic waste, reduce costs and provide better-tasting, filtered water.

For more information on how MSCS is using ESSER funds, click here.

MSCS Invites Local Businesses to Support Upcoming Internship Program

As we continue to connect our students with valuable resources to prepare them for the workforce, we are inviting business leaders to join MSCS in hosting junior and senior students as interns within their organization as part of a new Business Recruitment Program.

Click here to register and learn how you can support this impactful program.

The Shelby County Board of Education Newsletters serve as updates for community stakeholders, families, and employees about information discussed during the monthly Board Committee Meetings. 

Click here to access the newsletters.

Supporting MSCS is a meaningful way to impact the future

of Memphis and Shelby County.

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