MSCS officials to hold Optional Schools Fair for parents, students
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MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Students just got back in the classrooms this week, but now is the time to think about where they want to go to school in the fall. Memphis-Shelby County Schools is hosting its annual optional schools fair this weekend.
“So this is like a premier shopping experience for families where they get a chance to see all 45 of our optional schools in one location,” said Dr. Katrina Taylor, MSCS Optional Schools Senior Manager. “They can talk with school principals and staff. They can learn about the various offerings that are available at each or our respective optional schools and learn what to do in order to be able to be ready to apply.
MSCS offers 45 Optional Schools to help students develop their skills in a specific focus, whether that be creative and performing arts, dual language, or community service.
“Our students have so many opportunities to really develop their talents in so many different areas, Environmental Science, Engineering, Technology,” said Taylor. “You name it we have a program that will help students figure out what they enjoy, what it is they want to do in the future, and help them to figure out how to get there.”
These specialized programs are competitive. MSCS says currently there are about 10,000 students in Optional Schools, that’s just about 10% of the district. That’s why leaders say parents and students interested in a spot this fall, should prepare to apply now.
“The new year always brings about new possibilities and January’s the perfect time to start thinking about schools choices for the upcoming school year,” said Taylor.
Sunday, January 7th MSCS will make it easy to learn about all the programs under one roof at the Optional Schools Fair. It will be held at the Holiday Inn, University of Memphis location on Central Ave. from 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
“This is a really fun and informative event,” said Taylor. “It’s a great opportunity to get to meet the principals, talk with school staff, learn about the exciting offerings each of our optional programs, and just learn how to navigate the application process which is also coming up later on this month on January 30th.
While applications for School Choice begins January 30th, they’ll be accepted through the first day of school in the fall. But spots fill up fast, and each school has different qualifications. That’s why MSCS leaders encourage parents and students to attend the fair on Sunday to talk with someone to find the best fit for the student.
“MSCS has a plethora of options,” said Taylor. “We have programs available for all students. So give us the opportunity to share with you what we offer in our programs and we look forward to seeing everyone this Sunday. I know some people get really bent out of shape about knowing what documents to bring. We’ve got them covered with all of that. It is smooth and seamless. The hardest part is just remembering to log onto the system and complete the application.”
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