At Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), we believe that greatness begins with being present, every single day.  

Research consistently shows that simply showing up to school matters. In Tennessee, "chronic absenteeism," meaning missing 10% or more of instructional days, or approximately 18 days, can drastically undermine a student's academic progress, social development, and long-term success. 

MSCS is launching Show Up for Greatness, a districtwide attendance initiative designed to incentivize students and families and remind them that every day in school is a step toward success. 

“Our schools are more than classrooms. They are safe, supportive communities where students are seen, valued, and prepared to become leaders of tomorrow,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond. 

Through this initiative, students with 96% attendance and higher will earn Gold status, those with 95%–91% will be recognized as Silver status, and students with 90% or lower will be identified as Bronze status. 

Gold students will be celebrated with recognition and awards from both their schools and the district. Silver and Bronze students will not be left behind; instead, they will receive personalized interventions and support to help them improve their attendance and move toward achieving Gold. 

Families can easily monitor their student’s attendance status in the PowerSchool Parent Portal, updated every 20 school days. 

MSCS will highlight the powerful connection between consistent attendance and student achievement. “Greatness begins the moment your child walks through our doors,” Dr. Richmond said. “Every day matters because we are shaping not only academic excellence but also emotional intelligence, resilience, and life skills.” 

The initiative will encourage families to see attendance not only as a requirement but as an opportunity. “For many of our children, school is the place where they feel most encouraged and empowered to grow into their greatness,” Dr. Richmond said. “When students show up, they are planting seeds of success that will shape their future. Every single day counts. Every moment matters.” 

What this means for our school community:  

• Students are recognized and rewarded for showing up, and can improve their “medal” status throughout the year. 
• Families stay in the loop with PowerSchool updates every 20 days, along with regular communication and support from schools. 
• Teachers and staff can focus on learning, while knowing systems are in place to track and support attendance. 
• Our school community builds a culture that values presence, consistency, and mutual support. 

“We nurture the whole child through academics, arts, athletics, a positive attitude, and the power of consistent attendance,” Dr. Richmond said. “We are helping students discover the greatness that already lives within them, greatness they may not yet see, but we know is there.” 

With more than 200 schools across MSCS, there is a place for every student to thrive. “We are helping students discover the greatness that already lives within them, greatness they may not yet see, but we know is there,” Dr. Richmond said. 

This fall, let's all commit to greatness by showing up, each and every day. With Show Up for Greatness, we’re not just tracking attendance; we’re fostering a culture of consistency, support, and shared success.  

If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at communications@scsk12.org. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.