Big Changes in Memphis-Shelby County School Programs
In Memphis, a recent announcement has left students and parents buzzingโthere will be no Spring Break Learning Academy this year. During a meeting on Tuesday, Memphis-Shelby County Schools Superintendent Marie Feagins confirmed that funding issues are the reason behind this unfortunate news. The Spring Break Academy, just like the Fall Break Learning Academy that was previously canceled, wasnโt included in the districtโs budget.
So, Whatโs the Plan?
While it may sound gloomy, Feagins reassured everyone that they are considering a different approach. โWeโre going to think differently about this,โ she said, emphasizing the importance of finding new ways to provide students with opportunities for hands-on learning. Feagins mentioned they are already reaching out to community partners to utilize their resources during the spring break week for various activities. Itโs all about innovation and collaboration!
For those who are wondering, both learning academies were funded through federal funds, specifically the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Due to the budget constraints, providing these programs has been a challenge, but that doesnโt mean the district is throwing in the towel on valuable learning experiences.
New High School Hurdles
In addition to the changes in the learning academies, the Memphis City Council has also made headlines by blocking a special use permit for a new East Region High School. In a vote that saw strong opposition, seven council members rejected the permit, with only one member voting in favor. Local business owners raised concerns about increased traffic and safety for students in the area.
The councilโs reluctance comes amid worries about the ballooning costs associated with the schoolโs construction. Feagins noted that the search for alternative locations in light of the permit denial has been challenging, and unfortunately, many options simply donโt meet the schoolโs needs.
A Financial Tightrope
At a Shelby County Commission meeting earlier this year, it was revealed that the projected costs for the East Region High School had nearly doubled, now totaling over $212 million. Originally budgeted at approximately $77 million, the project is now facing a staggering funding gap of around $100 million. The Germantown High School will be sold to help fund this project, potentially generating between $10 million and $20 million.
Community Input Matters
Board members have voiced their concerns during meetings about how to manage expectations and communicate effectively with the community. Amber Huett-Garcia, a school board member, highlighted the difficult situation, expressing that the district canโt afford to build two high schools simultaneously during this fiscally constrained environment. โWe risk ending up with two half-built high schools,โ Huett-Garcia warned.
This has sparked heated discussions among board members. Some feel that communication about the permitโs status could have been improved. Still, others, including Commissioner Michelle McKissack, emphasized that the responsibility lies with the City Council for the permitโs rejection.
Looking Ahead
As the district navigates these financial and logistical challenges, itโs worth noting that Memphis-Shelby County Schools will not be in session from November 25 to November 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. Students will return to classes on December 2. During this time, community members are encouraged to stay engaged and share their thoughts or concerns about education by reaching out for further discussions.
Itโs definitely a time of transition and uncertainty for Memphisโ education system, but with the commitment from school officials and a focus on collaboration, thereโs hope that brighter, more innovative paths will emerge for students and families alike!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
