MEMPHIS, TN (MSCS) – Idlewild Elementary School has put Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) in the spotlight nationally, earning awards and significant recognition in recent weeks.

The school recently traveled to Nashville to accept the prestigious “Top Magnet School of Excellence Award,” presented by Magnet Schools of America, a National Association of Specialized Magnet and Theme Schools. In fact, Idlewild is the only school in Tennessee to receive this designation this year. 

Schools designated as “Magnet Schools of Excellence” are eligible to receive monetary awards and compete for the title of the best elementary, middle, high school, or new and emerging magnet school in the country.

Idlewild Elementary was also awarded by Midtown Memphis with the “Midtown MOJO Award” for “nurturing intellect, creativity, and character.” According to the Midtown community organization, “Idlewild makes Midtown brighter by putting ‘Children First & Excellence Always’ since 1903.”

Moreover, the Idlewild Elementary School Chess Team, led by long-time chess coach Mark Beatty, became State Champions after competing in the Primary (K-3) and Elementary (K-5) sections at the 2025 Harry D. Sabine Tennessee State Scholastic Team Chess Tournament. This is the first time for the Idlewild Chess Team to bring home Team State Championship trophies; they are traveling to Orlando in May to compete at Nationals.

Kei S., who was a member of the state winning chess team, was awarded 3rd place in the State of Tennessee Civics Essay Contest, which is organized by the Tennessee Secretary of State’s office. This year’s essay prompt was “Why Trusted Sources Matter,” and Kei’s essay, titled “The Road to Trusted Sources,” earned third place in the 3rd- through 5th-grade category out of thousands of submissions.

As part of her prize, Kei will get a $100 TNStar Scholarship and a trip to the State Capitol. During the award ceremony, students are assigned to serve as Pages for either a State Senator or Representative during the House Session. Kei will serve as a Senator Page with State Sen. Raumesh Akbari.

Additionally, Idlewild student Indigo Q. won first place in the Lil’ Pollution Preventer’s Art Contest, organized annually by the Memphis Storm Water Department. Her artwork is currently on display on a billboard at 2886 Walnut Grove Rd.

Congratulations to Idlewild Elementary School for pursuing excellence while elevating MSCS’ reputation as the largest school district in Tennessee.

MSCS remains committed to fostering innovative educational opportunities through its optional programs, ensuring that every student is equipped to excel academically and personally.