At Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), Superintendent Dr. Roderick F. Richmond’s “5 A’s” – Academics, Attendance, Attitude, Athletics, and the Arts – serve as a foundation for developing the whole child. Each pillar represents a critical part of the student experience, working together to ensure every learner is supported, engaged, and prepared for success.

MSCS provides a comprehensive arts program covering dance, media arts, music, theatre and visual arts, grounded in state and national standards. The curriculum includes specialized paths through Optional Schools, AP courses, and community-partnered activities like exhibitions and performances. For more details, you can visit our website.

MSCS has officially been named one of the 2026 Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. While this is always a huge honor, this year is particularly special because it marks the District’s 13th consecutive year receiving this recognition. You can find more details about the award and what it represents here: 2026 Best Communities for Music Education Districts | NAMM Foundation.

This spotlight highlights the Arts. From award-winning visual artwork to standout performances on stage and in marching bands, MSCS students are demonstrating how the arts enrich education and inspire greatness.

Young Artist Shines in Citywide Environmental Contest

Creativity continues to thrive across Memphis-Shelby County Schools as students use the arts to express ideas, explore important topics, and showcase their talents. At Whitney Elementary School, third-grade student Daphne Orange earned first place in the 2025-2026 Little Pollution Preventers Art Contest, sponsored by the City of Memphis Storm Water Department.

The contest invited PreK - 5th grade students across Memphis, including those enrolled in private schools, homeschools, and MSCS, to create artwork highlighting environmental responsibility. Participants were asked to include a downstream friend native to the Memphis area while demonstrating how pollution can impact local waterways and storm drainage systems.

Under the guidance of art teacher Ms. Rhonda Spight, Daphne created a vibrant illustration featuring a charismatic raccoon named “Randle” climbing a tree near the Mississippi River, with the Memphis skyline visible in the background. Her winning design promotes awareness about protecting natural resources and keeping waterways clean.

As the top winner, Daphne’s artwork is featured on a digital billboard located at 2888 Walnut Grove and also was highlighted in printed publications throughout the month of April. Her accomplishment reflects the creativity and environmental awareness students are developing through MSCS arts education programs. 

White Station High Students Earn Musical Theatre Honors 

The arts continue to shine at White Station High School (WSHS), where several students have been recognized as nominees for the High School Musical Theatre Awards. These honors highlight both individual talent and the strength of the school’s performing arts program. 

Congratulations to the following students:  
• Derwin Miller – Outstanding Featured Actor  
• Valon Momodu – Outstanding Poster Design  
• Jayden Haynes – Outstanding Supporting Actor  
• Mark Sanders – Outstanding Lead Actor 

“This is an incredible testament to the work that can happen when time and resources are invested into a program,” said WSHS principal Carrye Holland. “Having a new sound system, curtain, and updated lighting has made a huge difference for us. The students see these investments and it makes them work even harder. Our theater director, Camryn Pitts, has a vision, and we want to be the best in the Mid-South. We have incredible talent, and I can’t wait to see where this hard work will take both WSHS and MSCS.”

Marching Bands Showcase Talent at Blowdown Showdown

The performing arts were also on full display during the Welcome to Egypt: Blowdown Showdown Battle of the Bands, hosted by Raleigh-Egypt High School. The event brought together talented student musicians, dancers, and performers from across the Mid-South for a high-energy celebration of musical excellence, culture, and community.

Participating schools included Fairley High School, Oakhaven High School, Hamilton High School, Bolton High School, Manassas High School, Mitchell High School, Wooddale High School, and others from Tennessee and neighboring states. Students demonstrated discipline, collaboration, and artistic expression through powerful musical performances and precision choreography.

2026 Blowdown Showdown Winners

Division A Band