Applications open Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 10 a.m. 

Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make, and Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is committed to making that process clear, accessible, and empowering. Most students are assigned to a school (or a school zone with multiple schools) based on the address of their parent or legal guardian. Families also have the opportunity to explore schools outside their zone through two pathways: General Choice Transfers and Optional Schools. 

Both applications open at the same time each year, but they serve different purposes. Think of this guide as your roadmap to understanding the process, the key differences, and how to decide which path works best for your child. 

“Families know their children best, and our goal is to make sure every family has clear information and meaningful choices. Whether through General Choice or Optional Schools, MSCS is committed to expanding access to high-quality learning environments that meet the unique needs and interests of every student.” 

Dr. Shuanta Broadway, Chief of Student Support Services 

Understanding Your Options 

1. General Choice Transfer 

General Choice allows families to select a different MSCS school outside of their allocated zone that may better align with their child’s academic, social, or logistical needs - as long as space is available and the school does not have admissions requirements. 

What to know: 

“General Choice transfers give families meaningful options while keeping the application process simple, clear, and accessible so parents can focus on choosing the best learning environment for their child.”  

Stacey Davis, MSCS Director of Enrollment & Attendance 

2. Optional Schools 

Optional Schools provide theme-based, specialized, or academically advanced programs not typically found in traditional schools. With 45 optional programs across the district, students can pursue interests ranging from STEM and International Studies to Creative Arts, College Prep, and more. 

Types of Optional Schools: 

• Free-standing Optional Schools: 

  • Entire school is Optional; students must apply and meet eligibility criteria. Proximity preferences may apply.  

Admissions & Requirements: 

Students must apply and be accepted based on criteria that may include:  

Families in optional programs must renew their application each year. If the number of applicants exceeds capacity, a lottery is used, and a waitlist is maintained during the first 20 days of the school year. 

Do I Need One Application or Both? 

Most families only need one application – but depending on your child’s goals, you may need to complete both the General Choice application and the Optional Schools application. 

You may need both if: 

For example: 

You’re zoned for School A, but you want your child to participate in the optional program at School B. In this case, you must complete: 

If accepted, this ensures your child can both attend the school and enroll in the optional program. 

“Optional schools provide students with a plethora of opportunities to explore their passions and excel academically in a rigorous and diverse learning environment, making them an outstanding choice for families.” 

Dr. Katrina Taylor, MSCS Director of Optional Schools and Advanced Academics 

What Happens After You Apply? 

Finding the right school is a journey, and MSCS is committed to walking alongside families as they make these important decisions. From Optional programs to General Choice transfers, each pathway is built to expand opportunities and open doors for students. Before applications open on January 27, we encourage families to explore their options, attend upcoming events, and reach out for support whenever needed. Visit scsk12.org/choice/ to learn more. 

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.