With an air of excitement, Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Superintendent Toni Williams, School Board Members, and District leaders embarked on a school tour across the District on the highly anticipated first day of school on Monday, Aug. 7. Each school represented a different aspect of the diverse landscape of MSCS. The uniqueness that defines MSCS was evident throughout the visit.
The excitement started before sunrise at Cordova Middle School. Principal Christopher Hardiman and staff welcomed students along with District 5 Board Member Mauricio Calvo and members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Morning Star Church, and Trinity Baptist Church.
At Havenview Middle School, the fun theme of “Game On” greeted District leaders as Principal Darla Young and staff celebrated the enthusiasm and curiosity filling the hallways as students returned from summer break. Afterward, the group visited Highland Oaks Middle School, where Principal Marchera James and Assistant Principal Shaleah Carson welcomed visitors wearing matching blazers. District 1 Board Member Michelle McKissack joined the tour, and District leaders immersed themselves in the dynamic learning environment, connecting with educators and students alike.
Whitney Elementary School provided a heartwarming setting for the tour, emphasizing the District's and Principal Vonda Beaty’s commitment to providing a strong foundation for its young learners. Superintendent Williams and Board Chair Althea Greene interacted with teachers and students, reinforcing the importance of fostering a lifelong love for learning.
The final stop on the tour was Melrose High School, where alumni pride and Orange Mound history were on display. District 9 Board Member and alum Joyce Dorse Coleman led the group on a tour of the Heritage Room. District leaders engaged with students, educators, and the school’s new principal, Kristopher Davis, acknowledging the challenges and aspirations that come with high school education.
Throughout the tour, District leaders took the opportunity to interact with students, teachers, and staff members, emphasizing the importance of openness and collaboration. The visits provided MSCS leadership with a firsthand understanding of the unique characteristics of each school and the collective efforts that make up the District. MSCS has approximately 200 District-managed and charter schools, serving more than 109,000 students.
“Being present in our schools on the first day was definitely a meaningful experience for me,” Superintendent Williams said. “It's a chance to witness the dedication of our educators, the potential of our students, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead, especially under our theme for the year, ‘See The Future.’ As a district, we are committed to nurturing a supportive learning environment that empowers every student.”
The first-day-of-school tour aligned with the theme “See The Future,” as Superintendent Williams and District leadership demonstrated their determination to lead MSCS in a transformative academic year.