Empower Memphis seeks charter amendment to change school location

The Tennessee Public Charter School Commission has approved the agenda and minutes from previous meetings during its recent virtual committee meeting held on December 14, 2024. The meeting commenced with a unanimous vote to approve the agenda, followed by the approval of minutes from the October 2, 2024, School Performance and Accountability Committee meeting.

A significant topic discussed was the amendment petition from Empower Memphis Career and College Prep. Beth Figueroa, the director of authorizing, presented the petition, which seeks to amend the school's charter agreement to relocate outside its originally designated geographic area. Empower Memphis was initially approved in the 2023 New Start appeal cycle to open in the Orange Mound or South Memphis area for the 2024-2025 school year, serving grades K-8 with a maximum enrollment of 450 students.

The petition reflects Empower's strategic decision to adjust its location after signing the charter agreement, indicating a proactive approach to better serve its community. The commission's review of this amendment is crucial as it could impact the school's operational framework and its ability to meet the needs of its students.

As the meeting progressed, the commission emphasized the importance of ensuring that charter schools remain adaptable to changing circumstances while maintaining their commitment to educational excellence. The discussions around Empower Memphis's petition highlight the ongoing efforts of the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission to support innovative educational solutions in the state.

Looking ahead, the commission will continue to evaluate the implications of such amendments and their potential effects on the educational landscape in Tennessee.