Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is excited to celebrate the central role of African Americans in U.S. History and across the world. We’re elated to HONOR THE PAST triumphs, forged in integrity, innovation, artistry, determination, and leadership. We’re encouraged to SEE THE FUTURE, taking action to build our hope on excellence, inspiration, artistry, and diligence.

Follow our District social media pages each day as we engage our community.

• Mondays - Honor the Past: If we do not learn from our history, we are doomed to repeat it. This year, we honor those who strategically and courageously laid the foundation upon which the legacy of MSCS thrives.
• Wednesdays - See the Future: We’ve come too far to stop now! We will celebrate the movers, shakers, and history makers.
• Fridays - Living the Legacy: (Hall of Fame Fridays) We will highlight legacy MCS and SCS graduates inducted into the MSCS Alumni Hall of Fame.

Interim Superintendent Toni Williams shares a special Black History message.

MSCS encourages everyone to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of African American culture, heritage, and achievements. Here are several ways you can celebrate Black History Month with MSCS. Check back regularly for District and school event updates.

MSCS Black History Month Events

Sock Drive

The Equity & Access office will partner with Band of Brothers and nine (9) MSCS high schools to collect and distribute socks at three senior living facilities in the Mid-South.

Deadline: Feb. 23

Drop-off Location: Equity & Access, Attn: Dr. Michael Lowe - 160 S. Hollywood

Author‘s Corner

Students & families can fall in love with literacy by meeting and talking with authors who are native to and have an impact on MSCS.

Feb. 3, 2024 | 11 am - 2 pm

This event is taking place during the School Choice Showcase at the Memphis Sports & Events Center.

School Events 

Kate Bond MS - VIRTUAL VOTE: Black History Month and the Arts Door Decor Contest 

Click here to view & vote

Winner Announced Feb. 23 | 9:30 am

In her book, Becoming, Michelle Obama wrote, “For every door that’s been opened to me, I’ve tried to open my door to others. And here is what I have to say, finally: Let’s invite one another in.” Kate Bond MS invites you to celebrate the month with them online by gazing at their artistic homages to Black History!

A.B. Hill ES - Who am I?

Feb. 29 | 1:30 pm

Celebrate with A.B. Hill as they display their theme “ Honoring the past, fighting for the present, securing the future.”

Fox Meadows ES - Living Museum

Feb. 29 | 10 am - 11 am

Walk through this school’s ‘museum’ where the historical figures come to life!

The Office of Equity and Access is hosting a Black History Month Fine Arts Contest 

Our Theme for Black History Month Is

" Black History makes me hopeful because..."

• Students submit their completed works of art in one or all of the available arts categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, Visual Arts.
• Students participate in the appropriate division for their grade: (Grades 3-5), (Grades 6-8), (Grades 9-12), Special Artist (All grades welcome). Students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504 may enter in the Special Artist Division or grade division most closely aligned to their functional abilities.*

Contest Runs Jan. 30 - Feb. 16. Winners will be announced on Feb.19.

Email to : [email protected] OR

Mail to : Equity & Access Attn M. Lowe 160 S. Hollywood, Memphis, TN 38112

PARTNERSHIP WITH LITERACY MID-SOUTH TO IMPROVE LITERARY GENIUS

All students, schools, and families are encouraged to read and share books that showcase Black contributions and beliefs for liberation and cultivating genius.

MOBILIZE FAMILY & COMMUNITY PARTNERS

The Equity & Access office will partner with Band of Brothers and nine (9) MSCS high schools to collect and distribute socks at three senior living facilities in the Mid-south.

Sock Drop-Off Location: Equity & Access Attn M. Lowe 160 S. Hollywood Memphis, TN 38112

88.5FM The Voice of MSCS turns 50!

We’re Celebrating All Year Long!

Memphis is known for its music, but MSCS continues to uphold a rich legacy of communication, culture, and collaboration!

Did you know that WQOX is one of only a handful of school-district-owned and operated FM radio stations in the country?

Tune in, send your well wishes, and set your dial to join the ongoing party!

Black History Month Events Around Town

Brooks Museum

Super Saturday

Feb. 3, 2024 | 10 am - 12 pm

Families are invited to enjoy free admission, art, and art activities! Explore the painting techniques of Black artists in the collection like Sam Gilliam and Rashid Johnson to make your own masterpiece in the studio!

Memphis Museum of Science & History

“Portraits of Black Memphians“ Art Contest

MSCS student submissions will be displayed

Everyday People: Snapshots of the Black Experience

During the Month of February

Visit an original exhibition of historical photographs of twentieth-century African American men, women, and families. Historical photographs give modern viewers a mysterious glimpse into the lives of  African-Americans from the 1900-1950s.

Every weekend in February | 11 am & 1:30 pm

MoSH will offer a preview presentation of its African-American History Trail program focused on the lives and influence of Black Memphians throughout the City’s history.

First Baptist Church - Broad

"Lift Every Voice: Celebrating Black Excellence & Movement In Song"

Feb. 26, 2024 | 6 pm

This wonderful event will feature uplifting songs from MSCS high school choirs and special guests. Bring the family and friends. Please be mindful of First Baptist Church-Broad's clear bag policy.