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Thursday, July 2, 2026

Team MSCS,



As we close another week and head into the Independence Day holiday, I continue to be inspired by the many ways our District shows up for students, families, and one another. Whether through community partnerships, service, or the daily work of preparing for the school year ahead, every effort contributes to the strong foundation we are building together. Thank you for your commitment to our mission and to the communities we serve.

Saturday: Stronger Families

Last weekend, we partnered with Fathers First Memphis to host the Fatherhood and Family Impact Expo. It was encouraging to see fathers, families, community organizations, and MSCS departments come together to connect families with valuable resources while supporting school registration for the upcoming school year.



Thank you to our Family and Community Engagement team, Fathers First Memphis, and every community partner who helped make this event a success. Strong schools are built through strong partnerships, and together we continue creating opportunities that help students and families thrive.

Monday: Preparing Ahead

This week began with meetings focused on preparing for the upcoming school year and ensuring our work remains aligned with the priorities that support student success. Summer continues to be an important time for planning, collaboration, and strengthening the systems that will serve our schools in the months ahead.

Tuesday: Celebrating Excellence

During Tuesday's Board Business Meeting, we had the opportunity to celebrate the people and programs that continue to make Memphis-Shelby County Schools a district of excellence.



I was proud to recognize our Humanities and Arts Curriculum teams as we accepted the 2026 Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation, marking the 13th consecutive year our District has received this national honor. This recognition reflects our commitment to the Arts as one of our District's 5 A's and reminds us that a well-rounded education includes opportunities for every student to explore their creativity, discover their talents, and reach their full potential. Congratulations to our Academics team, school leaders, and every educator who inspires our students each day.

We also recognized Ms. Deborah Harrison Bowie as she begins her well-earned retirement after 50 years of dedicated service to MSCS. Her remarkable career is a testament to the lasting impact that committed employees have on generations of students, families, and colleagues. Thank you, Ms. Bowie, for your extraordinary service and for leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire us for years to come.

Wednesday: Serving Our Community

On Wednesday, I was proud to see our Family and Community Engagement Department host another community food drive in partnership with the Mid-South Food Bank as part of its ongoing summer efforts to help combat food insecurity and support families across Memphis and Shelby County.

Throughout the summer, our FACE team has remained committed to connecting families with essential resources while ensuring students have the support they need beyond the classroom. Thank you to our FACE team, the Mid-South Food Bank, our volunteers, and community partners whose collaboration and compassion continue making a meaningful difference for the families we serve.

Thursday: Staying Focused

Today included meetings as we continue preparing for a successful start to the 2026-27 school year. Every conversation, every plan, and every decision we make this summer is centered on ensuring our students and educators have the support they need from the very first day of school.

Friday: Independence Day

Tomorrow, our District will be closed in observance of Independence Day. As you enjoy the holiday weekend, I encourage you to spend time with family and friends, reflect on the freedoms we celebrate, and take time to rest and recharge.



Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students and to one another. Because of you, we continue moving our District forward and creating brighter opportunities for the children and families we serve.

Beyond the Classroom: CCTE Summer Camps Open Doors to Creative Careers for MSCS Students

One of the greatest responsibilities we have as educators is helping students discover gifts they may not yet see in themselves. This week's featured story highlights how our College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE) media camps, in partnership with our Communications and Broadcast department's 88.5 FM radio channel, are allowing students to build confidence, explore their creativity, and develop real-world skills through podcasting, digital media, and storytelling.

I encourage you to take a few moments to read about the incredible work happening this summer and the educators who are helping our students find their voice and envision new possibilities for their future.