Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) will welcome students and staff back on Tuesday, Jan. 23. Memphis, Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) on Monday confirmed significant progress in repairing water lines, pipes, and utility systems following the recent deep freeze, allowing our administrative buildings and most of our approximately 160 District-managed schools to reopen. 

We're actively assessing the water pressure and conditions at Dunbar Elementary, Georgian Hills Middle, Kirby High, E.E. Jeter Elementary, Hamilton K-8, Carver High, Crump Elementary, Oak Forest Elementary, and Fox Meadows Elementary schools. We'll provide a specific update on their reopening status by 9pm tonight (January 22).

Returning Safely:

While the citywide boil-water advisory remains in effect, we're working closely with the Shelby County Health Department (SCHD) to ensure a safe return for everyone. Here's what you can expect:

• Meals: Our dedicated teams will prepare breakfast and lunch options that don't require water, following all SCHD and state regulations. Snacks will also be available for after-school activities.
• Handwashing: Staff and students in grades K-12 can safely use sink water for handwashing. Pre-K students will have access to designated handwashing stations, per SCHD guidelines.
• Transportation:  Ice has melted on most of the roads due to Monday’s warm temperatures. All school buses will proceed as scheduled; however, please allow for extra travel time since our drivers will be navigating with increased caution.

Additional Information:

• Report Card Day has been rescheduled for Thursday, Jan. 25.
• We're working diligently to reschedule any postponed games and extracurricular activities.

This inclement weather increases the community’s awareness of the important role school infrastructure plays in ensuring students' well-being. Our District has proactively invested in winterizing schools and expanding our facilities team, but the average age of our buildings at 64 years exceeds the national recommendation of 40 years. Aging buildings are less energy-efficient and require more money and personnel to maintain. We hope to continue the ongoing conversation about the critical issue of increased school infrastructure funding.

Thank you for your patience and continued support. We're excited to welcome our MSCS family back to school Tuesday and look forward to a safe return.