That is why Seeding Success supports moving forward with the new accountability and oversight structure. We recently joined Memphis Lift and local families in an amicus brief asking the court to allow that work to proceed. We did so because the outcomes show that continuing with the same approach is not enough, and because we believe this moment offers our community an opportunity to bring greater urgency, expertise, accountability, and alignment to the work of improving MSCS.
That does not mean choosing the Oversight Board over the elected School Board. Meaningful improvement will require both, along with district leadership, educators, families, businesses, philanthropy, nonprofits, and the State working together around clear and measurable priorities. This approach should be codified in a shared community plan across both boards, the city and county, and the state to transform MSCS.
This is a pivotal moment for public education in Memphis and Shelby County. Rather than spending our energy debating the past, or miring progress in litigation, we believe the best use of this moment is to focus on what comes next: stronger systems, better collaboration, clearer accountability, and a bold plan for transformation.
Over the next several months, we will begin engaging the community around what this plan should look like and how we can build it together. We will continue doing our part to support our community, but let’s dream as big as we can for our children and work together to make that dream a reality.
Sincerely,
