For eleven years, the Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School has provided middle school boys with a science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) focused education in downtown Memphis.Now school leaders want to offer the same education to Memphis girls.The proposed Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory STEAM School for Girls would eventually provide an education for 525 female students from grades six through eight. It would serve as the sister school to the existing all-boys school, and both would share the same downtown Memphis location and leadership.“Our mission for the proposed school is anchored in ensuring that our young women leave our school with the academic and social-emotional skills along with the experiences which prepare them to achieve success in high school and beyond, particularly in STEAM-focused courses and careers” wrote the school in its application.Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory STEAM School for Girls is one five proposed public charter schools that have applied to open in Memphis. The district’s school board is expected to vote on all of them this spring.Much like the existing all-boy’s school, administrators anticipate the proposed all-girls school to serve a high percent of at-risk students, including approximately 60 percent from economically disadvantaged families, 20 percent qualifying for specialized services, and more than four percent English Language learners (ELL).“Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory STEAM School for Girls will provide an educational choice to families, one with rigorous academics and core values of safety, community, diversity, fun, and personal growth. High standards combined with an arts integrated approach to teaching a STEAM curriculum will prepare students for success in college and career, and create contributing, connected citizens,” wrote Tecia Garrett Marshal of Black Girls CODE Memphis in a letter of support for the proposed school.The proposed STEAM focus and its diverse demographic are among the qualities independent reviewers with the Quality Charter Review (QRC) referenced in giving the proposed school a recommendation for approval.QRC reviewers gave high remarks for providing a unique academic focus not available in downtown Memphis and having a strong focus on its research-based curriculum and career awareness and Social Emotional Learning (CASEL). Reviewers also found that the proposed academic plan and 360 student support will address the unique needs of students with disabilities and English Language learners."Overall, the applicant demonstrates evidence that the school will offer research-based curriculum and instruction exceptionally well. Curriculum and assessment plans align with state academic standards and district strategic goals exceptionally well,” wrote the QCR in its report.Reviewers recommended the proposed school include plans for multilingual student recruiting and additional information on STEAMS impact in their application.Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School is one of three proposed public charter schools QCR reviewers have recommended approving. Reviewers have recommended school board members deny the other two Memphis applications.¶
