Memphis, TN, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Memphis-Shelby County Schools leaders have proposed closing four schools and transferring one due to declining enrollment and financial challenges. The proposal, which includes Ida B. Wells Academy slated for repurposing and Lucy Elementary’s transfer to Millington Schools, aims to address the district’s $1.6 billion repair needs. Community engagement sessions will occur prior to a formal decision expected in February, affecting over 1,200 students. Concerns regarding staff placements and transportation for students have been raised.
Memphis, TN – Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) leaders, including Interim Superintendent Roderick Richmond, announced plans to possibly close four schools and transfer one by the end of the academic year. The affected schools are set to be debated and potentially approved by the MSCS board, with a formal decision expected in February 2026.
The proposal includes closing Ida B. Wells Academy, which would be repurposed for other uses by the district. The other three schools will be consolidated. Lucy Elementary will be transferred to Millington Schools due to a state law requiring the transition. Factors driving the proposed closures consist of declining enrollment, population shifts, poor facility conditions, and the financial impact on the district.
A school impact report for each facility under consideration will be commissioned and posted online for public access. To encourage community input, two public hearings will be held in the affected neighborhoods. District officials emphasized the importance of transparency throughout the process, which is expected to begin with community engagement sessions running from October to December 2025.
A sub-committee will be formed to assist in the planning process by the end of October. Richmond acknowledged that tough decisions must be made due to $1.6 billion in projected repairs and renovations needed over the next decade. Current data suggests that 1,295 students will be affected by the proposed closures.
The identified schools are primarily in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Memphis and are chosen based on enrollment data and maintenance needs. Over $6.5 million in immediate maintenance is needed for the impacted buildings, with projected costs reaching $48 million over the next 20 years.
Concerns have been raised regarding the placement of affected staff members in case of closures. Richmond assured that they can apply for jobs within the district or follow students to new schools. MSCS has historically closed schools, with many students moving to other schools that perform either on par or worse academically. Past closure plans have had a low success rate in actual implementation, with many proposed schools remaining open despite recommendations.
Plans for re-zoning and student assignments for the upcoming school year are to be presented soon. The community and parents have expressed concerns about how the closures will affect daily student transportation and schooling.
FAQ
What schools are proposed to be closed?
The proposal includes closing Ida B. Wells Academy, while three other schools will be consolidated.
What is the reason for the proposed school closures?
The reasons behind the proposed closures include declining enrollment, population shifts, poor facility conditions, and the financial impact on the district.
When will a formal decision be made regarding the closures?
A formal decision on the proposed closures is expected in February 2026.
How many students will be affected by the proposed closures?
Current data suggests that 1,295 students will be affected by the proposed closures.
Key Features of the Proposed School Closures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools Affected | Four schools proposed to be closed, with one transferred |
| Projected Repairs Needed | $1.6 billion over the next decade |
| Immediate Maintenance Needed | Over $6.5 million for impacted buildings |
| Community Engagement Sessions | Scheduled from October to December 2025 |
| Timing of Formal Decision | Expected by February 2026 |
| Students Affected | 1,295 students |
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Additional Resources
- WREG: Memphis School Board Discusses Closing Four Schools
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- Fox 13 Memphis: MSCS Recommends Closing Four Schools
- Google Search: Memphis school closures
- MLK50: Memphis Leaders Plan to Close Four Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Local Memphis: MSCS Names Schools Facing Closure
- Google News: Memphis school closures
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis School Closures List
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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