As Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) moves forward with its new regional leadership model, we’re proud to introduce the leaders guiding this important work across our communities. Each regional superintendent brings a strong track record in education, a deep understanding of the students and families they serve, and a shared commitment to academic excellence and equity.  

Lischa T. Brooks will serve as the Regional Superintendent for the Southwest Region, where she will aim to reimagine how schools serve students and families by enhancing support, strengthening local engagement, and ensuring excellence across every school in the region.  

Ms. Brooks is widely recognized for her ability to drive innovation and create transformative educational opportunities. A strategic and creative leader, Ms. Brooks has a proven track record of developing bold solutions to improve student outcomes, address systemic challenges, and elevate student voices. She is passionate about empowering students to achieve post-secondary success and equipping them with the tools to shape their own futures.  

Ms. Brooks began her career as a Latin and AP Latin teacher, where she inspired students to connect with the ancient world while achieving excellence in rigorous academic study. She also served on the College Board’s Advanced Placement Committee, grading AP Latin exams and contributing to the academic standards of the program. These early experiences shaped her commitment to creating equitable access to high-quality educational opportunities for all students.  

Ms. Brooks was the Founding Principal of the Maxine Smith STEAM Academy and the T-STEM Academy at East High School. She also wrote the first International Baccalaureate (IB) program application for legacy Memphis City Schools, paving the way for students to access a globally recognized, rigorous curriculum. These accomplishments underscore her commitment to innovation, strategic vision, and ability to execute ideas that redefine education for students in Memphis and beyond. In her most recent role, she served as the Chief of Schools at KIPP Memphis Public Schools, where she designed a robust STEM program and managed all aspects of the schools in the region. Since she began her tenure at KMPS, all three schools have achieved Level 5 on TVAAS and are Reward Schools.  

Ms. Brooks is pursuing a doctorate in Urban Education at the University of Memphis. Her academic research explores “othermothering” within African American communities, which is a concept that highlights the roles of women who extend care and mentorship beyond their biological children. This work emphasizes how communal support systems empower African American girls and women to thrive, reflecting Ms. Brooks’ deep commitment to equity and empowerment through education.  

In addition to her academic and professional accomplishments, Ms. Brooks is an award-winning author and has secured over $10 million in funding to support innovative educational programs throughout her career. She has served on the Greater Memphis IT Council Executive Board and the College Board’s Access and Equity Board, demonstrating her leadership in advancing education and addressing systemic barriers. Her ability to be creative and innovative has earned her numerous accolades, including being named STEM Educator of the Year in 2023. 

Beyond her professional work, Ms. Brooks is a devoted wife to H. Brandon Brooks, a proud mother of two sons and a goddaughter, and an avid yoga enthusiast. Her career reflects a lifelong dedication to reimagining what is possible in education and ensuring that all students have the opportunities to thrive in college, career, and life.  

Through a regional structure, MSCS hopes to create a sense of belonging where each person feels understood. Additionally, a regional model will help streamline operations more effectively and enhance overall efficiency.   

The Southwest Region includes:  

• A. Maceo Walker Middle  
• Bethel Grove Elementary  
• Cherokee Elementary  
• Dunbar Elementary  
• G.W. Carver College & Career Academy  
• Gardenview Elementary  
• Getwell Elementary  
• Havenview Middle  
• Invictus Academy  
• J. P. Freeman School  
• Norris Achievement Academy 
• Oakhaven Elementary  
• Oakhaven High  
• Oakshire Elementary  
• Robert R. Church Elementary  
• Sharpe Elementary  
• Sherwood Elementary  
• Southwest Career & Technology Center  
• Westhaven Elementary  
• Westwood High  
• Whitehaven Elementary  
• Whitehaven High