Memphis, TN - Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) held its first graduation for Memphis Virtual Adult High School (MVAHS) on December 10th.  

The new school is designed for busy, working adults 18 years or older. This free, fully virtual high school offers quarterly enrollment sessions, certified teachers, credit recovery, as well as accelerated and self-paced courses. The ceremony at St. Paul's Baptist Church was a historic occasion for the district and graduates.

“They have demonstrated endurance, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to their education, and because of their hard work, they walked across the stage to accept their high 

school diplomas as members of MVAHS first graduating class” said Superintendent Toni Williams. “I have one charge for them as they pursue their future goals: Keep this same energy; it will help make more of their dreams a reality.”

This year's pilot program featured about three dozen adult students; sixteen students graduated in December 2022. Other participants are working to graduate next semester. Beginning August 2023, the program will be open for enrollment to students statewide. Already more than 600 interested participants have applied. MSCS is bridging learning gaps to ensure more students are getting the support they need to graduate. The Excel Center, an in-person adult high school, held a graduation ceremony for its students in early December as well.

“We’re proud of all of our students, and we also celebrate their families who have been by their side every step of the way.” said Deputy Superintendent of Schools and Academic Support, Dr. Angela Whitelaw.

Education is vital to our community and the academic success of those who return to complete their high school journey uplifts everyone in the 901. MSCS has implemented programs and resources designed to support students of all ages, meeting students where they are and addressing their individual needs. As a result, MSCS is seeing evidence that, despite all odds, our students are #TrendingUp. 

In September, the Tennessee Department of Education confirmed our 2021-22 MSCS Graduation Rate was just over 80%, the highest graduation rate since the merger of Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools. Students from MVAHS now join their peers as part of the class of 2022.

For more information about enrollment into MVAHS, click here or call 901.416.0115.