Dear Principals,

ILT Content Leads have been tasked with redelivering content from their January support session between January 20 and February 2, 2026. To ensure fidelity and consistency, each ILT Content Lead received a redelivery package that includes:

• A Microsoft Form (due Friday, January 16) to indicate the scheduled redelivery date.
• The presentation to be redelivered, and guidance for facilitation.
• A flyer for teachers to register in PLZ.
• Sign-in Link for the session.
• Survey link for participants to complete after the session.

Office hours were available for facilitation support, and leads could join at a time convenient to them. Additionally, ILT Content Leads were asked to collaborate with their Instructional Leadership Team regarding redelivery efforts to ensure alignment and effective implementation.

Staff Expectations:

• All required staff must register in PLZ using the flyer link.
• Staff must attend the redelivery session, complete the sign-in, and submit the survey for PLZ credit to appear on their transcript.

Action Items for Principals:

1. Share with ILT Content Leads the list of school staff members required to attend the session.
2. Reinforce staff expectations to attend and register in PLZ.
3. Remind all required staff that PLZ credit requires registration in PLZ, attendance, sign-in, and survey completion.

For additional information, please contact ILTstipends@scsk12.org.

Thank you for your partnership in ensuring high-quality professional learning across our schools

Greetings! As we prepare for Leadership Development Week (LDW), we wanted to remind you of key dates and information. LDW is January 26-29, 2026, with the following groups attending on the dates below (agendas will be shared once they have been finalized).

· Monday, January 26, 2026 – PLC Coaches and Instructional Facilitators

· Tuesday,– January 27, 2026 Principals/Vice-Principals

· Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Assistant Principals and Deans of Students

· Thursday, January 29, 2026 – Professional School Counselors

January LDW Theme: Refinement Before Expansion

Focus Quote: "Before elevation comes refinement. The process of trimming, correcting, and realigning strengthens the foundation for long-term success."

Suggested Dress/Visual Cue: Winter Shades of blue, gray, charcoal, or silver.

Message: Creating the foundation for long-term success.

As always, remind your staff of their designated day to attend Leadership Development Week so that we can inform them of current best practices and pertinent information occurring throughout our District.

Dear Leaders,

District Learning Day (DLD) will take place on Friday, February 13, 2026, and will be led by Regional Superintendents. This day is designed to provide targeted, relevant professional learning aligned to instructional priorities and areas of growth.

Structure of the Day:

• Morning: Regional Superintendents will lead a half-day regional session.
• Afternoon: Principals will lead a school-based session with their teams.

School leaders are encouraged to leverage recent walkthrough data to identify and prioritize professional learning topics that align with your instructional goals. Engage your instructional leadership team to analyze trends and collaboratively determine focus areas for the school-based portion of the day.

Regional Superintendents will review and approve each school’s half-day PD plan to ensure alignment, quality, and clear outcomes.

Action Required:

• Submit your school’s half-day agenda, including professional learning activities for teachers, using the link provided below.
• February 2026 DLD School-Based Agenda Upload
• Deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026.

Thank you for your leadership in making this day meaningful and impactful for your teams.

Spring 2026 Professional Learning Course Offerings are now available.

Spring 2026 Professional Learning Catalog.pdf

The Regional Teacher Learning Labs are designed to provide differentiated professional learning opportunities aligned to educator effectiveness levels. Through targeted tracks—Novice, Focus, and Proficient—these labs support the development of content knowledge, pedagogical skills, and instructional practices.

Why Attend?

• Guidance from Instructional Content Leaders
• Focus on District-Aligned Academic Goals
• Practical Tools for Immediate Classroom Impact

Registration is open in PLZ:

Northeast Region: 49726

Northwest Region: 49727

Southeast Region: 49728

Southwest Region: 49729

Flyer: January Teacher Learning Labs.pdf

ILT Content Leads Save the Dates for Future 2025-26 ILT Support Sessions. All ILT Content Leads must attend the monthly ILT Support Sessions outlined in the flyer to be eligible to receive the semester stipend. 2025 26 ILT Support Session Dates w PLZ Codes 9.15.2025.pdf

Perennial Math is hosting the Jack Frost Team Virtual Tournament for K-8 students on January 28-29 and is offering to waive the participation fees for schools within the District. This opportunity gives teachers and schools the chance to experience Perennial Math and its platform firsthand and consider choosing to become more involved. Additionally, an onsite math tournament will be held in Memphis at Lakeland Preparatory School on February 21, 2026. For the onsite tournament, the cost is $15 per child. Find more detailed information using the links above. For any additional information, contact Antronette C. Brown at brownac@scsk12.org.

 

Literacy Commitment Leads have access to the overview of the January priorities.  Additionally, virtual open office hours will be available throughout January.  See slide 9 of the following slide deck for details regarding these virtual support sessions:  ​Literacy Commitment January 2026 Priorities.pptx​.

The District Spelling Bee is back! We’re encouraging all elementary and middle schools to host a school-level Spelling Bee and give students the chance to showcase their spelling skills and confidence on stage.

The MSCS Spelling Bee will highlight our spectacular spellers in grades 1-8. But first, they’ll need to win your school’s spelling bee by Friday, January 23, 2026. Now is the time to identify your Spelling Bee Coordinator and plan for e-x-c-e-l-l-e-n-c-e.

Sign-Up Here: Spelling Bee Intent to Participate 2025-26

If you have questions about how to get started, join us for a virtual meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.

For more information about the Scripps National Spelling Bee, visit spellingbee.com/enrollment to learn more and register your school. Participation in the Scripps Bee is NOT required for participation in the MSCS Spelling Bee.

Thank you for all you do to create meaningful learning opportunities for our students and for helping them build confidence through friendly academic competition!

Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Erin Y. Luster <lusterey@scsk12.org>.

Principals,

We are preparing for our annual Summer Learning Academy (SLA) and Promotional Summer School programs. These programs will offer promotion and enrichment opportunities for 10,000+ students in grades PreK-12.

If you are interested in your school serving as a site for the Summer Learning Academy or Summer School, complete the survey below by Monday, January 26, 2026. To ensure that all students have access to the programs, please note that final sites will be selected based on geographic location and building availability according to the summer maintenance schedule.

Survey: Summer Learning Academy and Summer School 2026 – Fill out form

If you have any questions, please reach out to Stephanie McClain (mcclainsl@scsk12.org) or Denise Swan (swand@scsk12.org).

Principals,

We are preparing for our annual Summer Learning Academy (SLA) and Promotional Summer School programs. These programs will offer promotion and enrichment opportunities for 10,000+ students in grades PreK-12.

If you are interested in your school serving as a site for the Summer Learning Academy or Summer School, complete the survey below by Monday, January 26, 2026. To ensure that all students have access to the programs, please note that final sites will be selected based on geographic location and building availability according to the summer maintenance schedule.

Survey: Summer Learning Academy and Summer School 2026 – Fill out form

If you have any questions, please reach out to Stephanie McClain (mcclainsl@scsk12.org) or Denise Swan (swand@scsk12.org).

On behalf of Dr. Balaji Krishnaiah, Vice Chair of Education, Stroke Division Chief, and Neurology Residency Program Director at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Department of Neurology, I am thrilled to share an incredible opportunity for your students: Brain Bee!

Brain Bee is part of an international movement founded in 1998 to inspire high school students to learn about the brain and consider careers in neuroscience – fields that are vital to treating and curing brain disorders. This year, we are proud to bring this exciting Neuroscience Competition for Teens to Shelby County for the first time!

More details are included in the flyer linked here. This is a unique chance for students to challenge themselves, explore cutting-edge science, and connect with a community passionate about brain health. To be considered for participation in the Memphis Brain Bee, please submit this application by Friday, January 30.

If you have any questions, please reach out to brainbee@uthsc.edu. We would love for your school and students to be part of this amazing event!

On behalf of Dr. Balaji Krishnaiah, Vice Chair of Education, Stroke Division Chief, and Neurology Residency Program Director at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Department of Neurology, I am thrilled to share an incredible opportunity for your students: Brain Bee!

Brain Bee is part of an international movement founded in 1998 to inspire high school students to learn about the brain and consider careers in neuroscience – fields that are vital to treating and curing brain disorders. This year, we are proud to bring this exciting Neuroscience Competition for Teens to Shelby County for the first time!

More details are included in the flyer linked here. This is a unique chance for students to challenge themselves, explore cutting-edge science, and connect with a community passionate about brain health. To be considered for participation in the Memphis Brain Bee, please submit this application by Friday, January 30.

If you have any questions, please reach out to brainbee@uthsc.edu. We would love for your school and students to be part of this amazing event!

An Immersive Federal Court Program for Memphis Area High School Students

Program Outline

Investigate the Supreme Court case Watson v. City of Memphis (1963).

• Week-long program at the United States District Courthouse for the Western District of Tennessee, includes local field trips.
• Learn from State and Federal Judges & Local Attorneys, Professors, and Historians.
• Create a collaborative capstone project to educate your community on the impact of the case.
• Participants will gain valuable experience and Supreme Court gift bags.

For more information: https://supremecourthistory.org/hometown-program-memphis-tn/

If you have any questions, please email jhigginsshaull@supremecourthistory.org.

Program Session Dates: Monday, March 16 – Friday, March 20, 2026

Please submit your academic reference via the online submission form at the bottom of this page by the application deadline: January 30, 2026 @ 4 PM CST.

An Immersive Federal Court Program for Memphis Area High School Students

Program Outline

Investigate the Supreme Court case Watson v. City of Memphis (1963).

• Week-long program at the United States District Courthouse for the Western District of Tennessee, includes local field trips.
• Learn from State and Federal Judges & Local Attorneys, Professors, and Historians.
• Create a collaborative capstone project to educate your community on the impact of the case.
• Participants will gain valuable experience and Supreme Court gift bags.

For more information: https://supremecourthistory.org/hometown-program-memphis-tn/

If you have any questions, please email jhigginsshaull@supremecourthistory.org.

Program Session Dates: Monday, March 16 – Friday, March 20, 2026

Please submit your academic reference via the online submission form at the bottom of this page by the application deadline: January 30, 2026 @ 4 PM CST.

On behalf of Dr. Balaji Krishnaiah, Vice Chair of Education, Stroke Division Chief, and Neurology Residency Program Director at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Department of Neurology, I am thrilled to share an incredible opportunity for your students: Brain Bee!

Brain Bee is part of an international movement founded in 1998 to inspire high school students to learn about the brain and consider careers in neuroscience – fields that are vital to treating and curing brain disorders. This year, we are proud to bring this exciting Neuroscience Competition for Teens to Shelby County for the first time!

More details are included in the flyer linked here. This is a unique chance for students to challenge themselves, explore cutting-edge science, and connect with a community passionate about brain health. To be considered for participation in the Memphis Brain Bee, please submit this application by Friday, January 30.

If you have any questions, please reach out to brainbee@uthsc.edu. We would love for your school and students to be part of this amazing event!

On behalf of Dr. Balaji Krishnaiah, Vice Chair of Education, Stroke Division Chief, and Neurology Residency Program Director at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) Department of Neurology, I am thrilled to share an incredible opportunity for your students: Brain Bee!

Brain Bee is part of an international movement founded in 1998 to inspire high school students to learn about the brain and consider careers in neuroscience – fields that are vital to treating and curing brain disorders. This year, we are proud to bring this exciting Neuroscience Competition for Teens to Shelby County for the first time!

More details are included in the flyer linked here. This is a unique chance for students to challenge themselves, explore cutting-edge science, and connect with a community passionate about brain health. To be considered for participation in the Memphis Brain Bee, please submit this application by Friday, January 30.

If you have any questions, please reach out to brainbee@uthsc.edu. We would love for your school and students to be part of this amazing event!

Nominations are now open for the Memphis Business Journal’s Next Gen program, and we don’t want your students to miss out on this incredible opportunity. Next Gen connects emerging young leaders (ideally juniors) with influential business professionals and top decision makers across Memphis, opening doors to meaningful mentorship, valuable exposure, and even potential summer internships that can shape future careers.

Each high school team is asked nominate up to two well-rounded students who demonstrate promise, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference in their school and community. These aren’t necessarily the most visible students or those with highest GPA, but those who show early leadership, engagement, and a genuine interest in exploring the world of business.

Selected students will be paired with mentors and welcomed into signature MBJ events, gaining experiences that can truly set them apart. To support your nominees, we ask for a brief testimonial from a school representative and guidance for students throughout the process.

Your participation makes all the difference and we hope to see even stronger engagement this year as we work together to elevate our next generation of Memphis leaders.

Nominations are due Saturday, January 31, 2026. For more information, visit: https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/nomination/89185/2026/2026-next-gen#/

Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Billy J. Walker <walkerbj@scsk12.org>.

Nominations are now open for the Memphis Business Journal’s Next Gen program, and we don’t want your students to miss out on this incredible opportunity. Next Gen connects emerging young leaders (ideally juniors) with influential business professionals and top decision makers across Memphis, opening doors to meaningful mentorship, valuable exposure, and even potential summer internships that can shape future careers.

Each high school team is asked nominate up to two well-rounded students who demonstrate promise, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference in their school and community. These aren’t necessarily the most visible students or those with highest GPA, but those who show early leadership, engagement, and a genuine interest in exploring the world of business.

Selected students will be paired with mentors and welcomed into signature MBJ events, gaining experiences that can truly set them apart. To support your nominees, we ask for a brief testimonial from a school representative and guidance for students throughout the process.

Your participation makes all the difference and we hope to see even stronger engagement this year as we work together to elevate our next generation of Memphis leaders.

Nominations are due Saturday, January 31, 2026. For more information, visit: https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/nomination/89185/2026/2026-next-gen#/

Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Billy J. Walker <walkerbj@scsk12.org>.

An Immersive Federal Court Program for Memphis Area High School Students

Program Outline

Investigate the Supreme Court case Watson v. City of Memphis (1963).

• Week-long program at the United States District Courthouse for the Western District of Tennessee, includes local field trips.
• Learn from State and Federal Judges & Local Attorneys, Professors, and Historians.
• Create a collaborative capstone project to educate your community on the impact of the case.
• Participants will gain valuable experience and Supreme Court gift bags.

For more information: https://supremecourthistory.org/hometown-program-memphis-tn/

If you have any questions, please email jhigginsshaull@supremecourthistory.org.

Program Session Dates: Monday, March 16 – Friday, March 20, 2026

Please submit your academic reference via the online submission form at the bottom of this page by the application deadline: January 30, 2026 @ 4 PM CST.

Nominations are now open for the Memphis Business Journal’s Next Gen program, and we don’t want your students to miss out on this incredible opportunity. Next Gen connects emerging young leaders (ideally juniors) with influential business professionals and top decision makers across Memphis, opening doors to meaningful mentorship, valuable exposure, and even potential summer internships that can shape future careers.

Each high school team is asked nominate up to two well-rounded students who demonstrate promise, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference in their school and community. These aren’t necessarily the most visible students or those with highest GPA, but those who show early leadership, engagement, and a genuine interest in exploring the world of business.

Selected students will be paired with mentors and welcomed into signature MBJ events, gaining experiences that can truly set them apart. To support your nominees, we ask for a brief testimonial from a school representative and guidance for students throughout the process.

Your participation makes all the difference and we hope to see even stronger engagement this year as we work together to elevate our next generation of Memphis leaders.

Nominations are due Saturday, January 31, 2026. For more information, visit: https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/nomination/89185/2026/2026-next-gen#/

Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Billy J. Walker <walkerbj@scsk12.org>.

We’re excited to share an opportunity for your students to showcase their knowledge and creativity! In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Tennessee Secretary of State has announced the 2026 Civics Essay Contest with the theme:
“Tennessee, America at Its Best.”

Students in grades K–12 are encouraged to participate for a chance to win scholarships and an unforgettable trip to the State Capitol, including an award luncheon, serving as a legislative page, and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Submission deadline: Friday, February 20, 2026
Learn more and access contest rules at: sos.tn.gov/civics-essay-contest

Let’s inspire the next generation of engaged citizens!

We’re excited to share an opportunity for your students to showcase their knowledge and creativity! In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Tennessee Secretary of State has announced the 2026 Civics Essay Contest with the theme: “Tennessee, America at Its Best.”

Students in grades K–12 are encouraged to participate for a chance to win scholarships and an unforgettable trip to the State Capitol, including an award luncheon, serving as a legislative page, and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Submission deadline: Friday, February 20, 2026
Learn more and access contest rules at: sos.tn.gov/civics-essay-contest

Let’s inspire the next generation of engaged citizens!

We’re excited to share an opportunity for your students to showcase their knowledge and creativity! In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Tennessee Secretary of State has announced the 2026 Civics Essay Contest with the theme: “Tennessee, America at Its Best.”

Students in grades K–12 are encouraged to participate for a chance to win scholarships and an unforgettable trip to the State Capitol, including an award luncheon, serving as a legislative page, and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Submission deadline: Friday, February 20, 2026
Learn more and access contest rules at: sos.tn.gov/civics-essay-contest

Let’s inspire the next generation of engaged citizens!

We’re excited to share an opportunity for your students to showcase their knowledge and creativity! In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, the Tennessee Secretary of State has announced the 2026 Civics Essay Contest with the theme: “Tennessee, America at Its Best.”

Students in grades K–12 are encouraged to participate for a chance to win scholarships and an unforgettable trip to the State Capitol, including an award luncheon, serving as a legislative page, and a behind-the-scenes tour.

Submission deadline: Friday, February 20, 2026
Learn more and access contest rules at: sos.tn.gov/civics-essay-contest

Let’s inspire the next generation of engaged citizens!

Please ensure that you record the attendance of parents/guardians at the parent-teacher conferences that will be held on January 22, 27, and 29. An ECollect form titled “Spring 25–26 Parent Conference Attendance Form” has been created in PowerSchool for entering this information. Step-by-step instructions for entering attendance can be found ​here​. Teachers will need to submit only the simple form for students who had a parent or guardian attend. Please enter the information by the end of the day, Friday, February 6.