Memphis, Tennessee, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Memphis-Shelby County Schools held a press conference to tackle ongoing infrastructure issues, including HVAC failures at Central High School and a flea infestation at Berclair Elementary. Additional concerns include elevated lead levels in water across several schools. MSCS is actively implementing remediation efforts while ensuring the health and safety of students. Parents are encouraged to stay informed about these critical developments.
Memphis, Tennessee – Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) held a press conference on Monday to address several significant infrastructure issues affecting schools in the district, including reported HVAC failures and a flea infestation. These challenges have raised concerns among parents and students alike.
On Friday, Central High School experienced severe HVAC problems, leaving multiple classrooms without air conditioning. While one student was taken to the hospital due to a medical emergency, school officials clarified that the incident was not linked to the lack of air conditioning in that classroom. Prior to the start of the school day, inspections were conducted throughout the district, and MSCS reported that no HVAC issues were detected at that time.
In addition to the HVAC concerns, Berclair Elementary School is currently dealing with a flea infestation in one of its three buildings. Following the weekend, a student from Berclair Elementary required medical attention for multiple flea bites. While the specific source of the infestation remains unidentified, MSCS has committed to an ongoing treatment plan aimed at eradicating the pests. Treatment measures include fogging, outdoor pest control around the school grounds, and carpet steaming within the affected building.
Furthermore, a recent water quality assessment conducted across 24 MSCS schools revealed lead levels exceeding safe thresholds in some cases. In response, MSCS is implementing permanent measures to tackle the elevated lead levels while currently providing bottled water and water filtration machines to ensure safe drinking options for students and staff.
MSCS has proactively communicated with parents and the broader school community about the ongoing infrastructure issues. Officials reassured stakeholders that the flea problem has not spread to other buildings on the Berclair campus, which aims to alleviate some of their concerns.
The combination of HVAC failures, the flea infestation at Berclair Elementary, and elevated lead levels in school water supplies has prompted MSCS to focus on urgent remediation efforts to ensure the health and safety of its students. While the district is actively addressing these pressing issues, parents are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments and reach out with any questions or concerns.
Key Infrastructure Issues at MSCS
- HVAC Failures: Air conditioning problems reported at Central High School, but no issues detected before the school year began.
- Flea Infestation: Berclair Elementary dealing with fleas, leading to medical attention for at least one student.
- Water Quality Concerns: 24 schools reported elevated lead levels in water; MSCS providing bottled water and filtration machines.
Background
Memphis-Shelby County Schools, one of the largest school districts in Tennessee, manages a wide array of facilities and services for students. The recent reports of infrastructural challenges highlight the importance of proper maintenance and health standards within educational environments. These ongoing issues serve as a reminder of the critical need for investment in school infrastructure to ensure safe and conducive learning atmospheres for students and faculty alike.
FAQ
What HVAC issues are being reported in Memphis-Shelby County Schools?
Central High School reported multiple classrooms without air conditioning, prompting concern among students and parents.
What actions are being taken to address the flea infestation at Berclair Elementary School?
MSCS is implementing treatments such as fogging, outdoor pest control, and carpet steaming to eradicate the fleas.
How is MSCS addressing the elevated lead levels found in water at some schools?
MSCS is providing bottled water and water filtration machines to ensure safe drinking options while working on permanent measures to resolve the lead issues.
Overview of Current Infrastructure Issues
| Issue | Description | Actions Being Taken |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Failures | No air conditioning in multiple classrooms at Central High School. | Inspections conducted; no prior issues found. |
| Flea Infestation | Flea infestation affecting Berclair Elementary; student received medical care. | Ongoing treatments such as fogging, pest control, and carpet steaming. |
| Lead Levels in Water | Recent water quality tests show elevated lead levels in multiple schools. | Providing bottled water and filtration machines; planning permanent solutions. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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New Committee Formed to Address School Infrastructure in Memphis
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Tennessee Launches Forensic Audit of Memphis-Shelby Schools
New HIV Infections Reveal Alarming Trends in Shelby County
Additional Resources
- Action News 5: MSCS Update on Infrastructure Issues
- Fox 13 Memphis: Berclair Elementary Flea Infestation
- WREG: Flea Outbreak at Berclair Elementary School
- Local Memphis: Flea Infestation Report at Memphis Elementary School
- MSN: MSCS Working to Clear Flea Infestation at School
- Wikipedia: Memphis-Shelby County Schools
- Google Search: School Infrastructure Issues
- Google Scholar: School Health Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Infrastructure
- Google News: MSCS News
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.
