An African proverb says it clearly: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This short but impactful phrase summarizes the essence of the commitment between Memphis-Shelby County Schools and its partners to help students have a successful school year and academic career.

In a series of uplifting events, MSCS joined forces with local organizations to enhance the educational landscape for students across the district. From new learning spaces to literacy initiatives, the community-focused efforts are already making a positive impact.

Literacy OWL Fest at Georgian Hills Elementary

On Sept. 21, Georgian Hills Elementary hosted the Opportunities with Literacy (OWL) Fest. This event provided students in grades Pre-K through 5 with the chance to select free books and foster a love for reading in collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Education and the Governor's Early Literacy Foundation. 

“Literacy is life and the bedrock to all other subjects,” said Dr. Thomas Rogers, Assistant Superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools. “OWL Fest has helped us to align and recommit ourselves to early and ongoing literacy for all students, regardless of the zip code. OWL Fest has given our students access to various texts and genres to ensure personal libraries are within fingertips at all times.”

Lead & Read for Literacy at Bruce Elementary

Continuing its commitment to literacy, MSCS partnered with Coaching for Literacy and the University of Memphis Tigers Men's Basketball team for the Lead & Read event at Bruce Elementary on Sept. 22. Coaches and players visited classrooms, distributed books, and engaged with students to promote the importance of literacy.

Watch the video below to learn more about this special visit:

Delano Gym/Outdoor Learning Space Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Indoor fitness and outdoor learning were also celebrated, enhanced, and highlighted Sept. 22 at Delano Optional School. Students on the campus in Frayser buzzed with excitement as the ribbon was cut to unveil a new gymnasium and outdoor learning space. The ceremony, attended by the Office of Schools and Academic Support, Delano faculty, and students, marked a significant addition to the school.

Read To Achieve Visit to Treadwell

The enthusiasm for reading continued at Treadwell Elementary on Sept. 27. Memphis Grizzlies mascot Grizz and the Grizz Girls, in collaboration with MSCS, Sylvamo, and Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA), visited students to deliver books, prizes, and free Grizzlies library cards, encouraging a love for reading and literacy.

Check out the video below to see more highlights of this event:

Whitehaven Elementary Outdoor Learning Space Ribbon Cutting

As the fall season approaches, Whitehaven Elementary School is embracing innovation by taking classrooms outdoors. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Sept. 29 to celebrate the opening of a new outdoor learning space that includes a thriving student-maintained garden.

Manassas HS Community School Ribbon Cutting

Focused on financial literacy, Manassas High School’s new designation as a Community School not only educates students but also offers workshops in the Family-Community Resource Center, addressing diverse needs such as resume building, healthy living, homeownership, and job assistance. District leaders were there to celebrate the Manassas High Community School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 29.

Watch this short clip of the official unveiling below:

These initiatives underscore MSCS's commitment to holistic education, fostering not only academic growth but also creating environments that support the overall well-being of students and their communities. The collaborative efforts with local organizations are truly helping students 'See the Future' in a brighter light.