Memphis, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Memphis-Shelby County Schools is reviewing purchase offers for the historic Humes Middle School, set to close after the 2023-2024 academic year. The closure has caused significant backlash from parents and community members who argue it will harm access to educational resources. Humes Middle, known for its association with Elvis Presley, has seen declining attendance, prompting the decision amidst ongoing infrastructure challenges within the district.
Memphis – Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is currently reviewing several purchase offers for the historic Humes Middle School building located in North Memphis, set to close after the 2023-2024 academic year. Offers have been submitted by both the public utility Memphis Light, Gas, and Water, and the New Ballet Ensemble & School, which plans to establish a nonprofit focused on increasing access to arts education for students in grades 6-12.
Principal Freddie Thomas announced the forthcoming closure on social media, outlining alternative schooling options for families in the coming academic year. The decision has incited significant backlash from parents and community members who are campaigning for the schoolโs continued operation. Critics of the closure argue that shutting down Humes would negatively impact the community and limit educational resources for local students.
Humes Middle School, which opened its doors in the 1930s, is recognized as a historic landmark within Memphis, famously known as the school attended by Elvis Presley. However, its attendance and overall academic performance have been on a decline, prompting a transition in 2014 from MSCS to the state-led Achievement School District (ASD). The ASD attempted to reverse the fortunes of Humes by assigning it to the charter operator Frayser Community Schools.
The contract between Frayser Community Schools and Humes will conclude at the end of the current academic year after MSCS declined their application for continuation. The newly appointed superintendent, Marie Feagins, emphasized the importance of engaging with families through these changes. Discussions at recent MSCS Board of Education meetings have included considerations of proximity, capacity, and the condition of school buildings in the context of closures.
As part of the district’s plan to regain control of its schools, additional institutions operated by Frayser Community Schools will also be closing. The community has expressed a strong attachment to Humes Middle School, citing its history of producing successful alumni and its vital role in the neighborhood’s identity.
The school district is currently dealing with significant infrastructural challenges, reporting about $500 million in deferred maintenance. This situation has spurred necessary conversations about the closing of schools, as MSCS attempts to balance community feedback with the need to address pressing infrastructure issues and declining school performance.
Context of Humes Middle School Closure
Humes Middle School has been an integral part of the Memphis community since its establishment, serving generations of families. Its recognition as a historic landmark amplifies the emotional stakes surrounding its closure. The ongoing decline in student attendance and performance has made the schoolโs future increasingly precarious, leading to the recent transitions and discussions within the MSCS framework. The decision to close the school is not merely a matter of financial practicality but is intertwined with community identity and the legacy of past students like Elvis Presley.
The MSCS is at a turning point, striving for improvements within its schools while navigating the complex dynamics of community relations and infrastructure necessities.
FAQ
Why is Humes Middle School closing?
Humes Middle School is closing due to declining attendance and academic performance, which led to its transition to the Achievement School District (ASD) in 2014. The current management contract will not be renewed, and MSCS has opted to close the school as part of a broader effort to address performance and infrastructure challenges.
What organizations are interested in purchasing Humes Middle School?
Memphis Light, Gas, and Water and the New Ballet Ensemble & School have both made offers to purchase the old Humes Middle School building. The New Ballet Ensemble & School intends to create a nonprofit aimed at improving access to arts education for middle and high school students.
How has the community reacted to the closure?
The closure announcement has led to outrage among some parents and community members, with many advocating for the schoolโs continued operation. Critics contend that closing Humes would deprive students of educational advantages and resources while negatively impacting the community at large.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Closure Announcement | Principal Freddie Thomas announced the closure of Humes Middle School at the end of the 2023-2024 academic year. |
| Offers Received | Memphis Light, Gas, and Water and New Ballet Ensemble & School have submitted offers to purchase the school. |
| Community Reaction | Outrage among community members and parents advocating for the school’s operation. |
| Historical Significance | Humes Middle School is recognized for its historical significance, including its association with Elvis Presley. |
| Infrastructure Challenges | MSCS faces approximately $500 million in deferred maintenance impacting decision-making regarding school closures. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Committee Formed to Address School Infrastructure in Memphis
Top Public Middle Schools in Memphis Metro Area Revealed
Push for State Oversight of Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Memphis Schools Face Urgent Property Management Challenges
GloRilla Donates $20,000 to Westside Middle School’s Arts Program
Major Investment in Frayser High School Could Impact Mid-South Education
Closure of Humes Middle School Marks End of an Era
Lawmakers Propose State Control Over Memphis Schools
Memphis Schools Facing Potential State Takeover
Memphis Schools Face Uncertain Future with State Takeover
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Humes Middle School Offers
- Action News 5: Humes Middle School Arts School
- WREG: Humes Middle School Closure
- Commercial Appeal: MSCS School Closures
- Action News 5: MSCS to Close Humes Middle School
- Wikipedia: Humes Middle School
- Google Search: Humes Middle School Memphis
- Google Scholar: Humes Middle School Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Humes Middle School
- Google News: Humes Middle School
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
