Independent review finds proposed Memphis Grizzlies affiliated public charter school a slam dunk
For more than a decade the Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School has provided middle-school aged boys with a science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) focused education in Memphis and last year school leaders proposed creating a similar school for girls.
The Memphis-Shelby County School Board denied that application in 2023 but the proposal is back with some changes to address the concerns board members had.
The proposed Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory STEAM School for Girls would eventually serve 525 female students in grades sixth through eight with an education model that focuses on closing the gap in underrepresentation of women of color in STEAM-related careers.
“Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory STEAM School for Girls envisions an academically rigorous, achievement-driven school that is affirming, nurturing, and empowering. Our school will provide a safe and supportive environment for students, families, and staff, supporting high levels of student achievement. Humanity, scholarship, curiosity, and strength of character will be modeled by staff, demonstrated by students, and valued by all stakeholders,” wrote school leaders in the application. “Our vision is anchored in ensuring that our students leave with the academic and social-emotional skills needed to be successful in high school and beyond, as well as embody traits that are fundamental to lifelong success.”
Last year, the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) charter review team had concerns about the proposed school’s timeline for a full STEAM curriculum and its ability to integrate STEAM electives into core classes.
Independent reviewers with the Quality Charter Review (QCR) found no concerns with the STEAM electives or the STEAM timeline this year, noting the proposed school would fully implement STEAM by year four.
QCR reviewers also complimented the application’s unique academic focus and its plan to address the unique needs of special populations including students with disabilities and English language learners. Reviewers are recommending school board members approve the application later this month.
“The application makes a compelling case for the unique educational option in Downtown Memphis that would be open to all students, regardless of academic or behavioral records,” wrote QCR reviewers. “Overall, the applicant demonstrates evidence that the school will offer research-based curriculum and instruction within a unique educational option for Memphis.”
QCR reviewers did suggest several areas where the application could be improved including providing letters of support from families and adding additional information for how the facilities expenses with the new school could impact the existing one.
Memphis Grizzlies Preparatory STEAM School for Girls is one of three proposed public charter schools applying to open in Memphis this year.
The Quality Charter Review and Tennessee Firefly are unaffiliated projects of Tennesseans for Student Success.
