Superintendent presents 100 day plan focused on student achievement in Memphis schools

In a pivotal meeting on April 29, 2025, the Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Board unveiled a comprehensive 100-day plan aimed at transforming the district's educational landscape. Superintendent Dr. Joris Richmond presented the strategic framework, emphasizing a commitment to student outcomes, community engagement, and operational excellence.

Dr. Richmond's plan is built around five key priorities: governance and board relations, student achievement, staff relations, operations and finance, and community relations. He highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making and transparency in addressing academic disparities and enhancing student performance. "True leadership is forged during moments of challenge," he stated, underscoring the urgency of the district's mission.

The meeting also featured updates on the budget process, with a community budget meeting held on April 16 that garnered feedback from 643 participants. The board plans to further discuss the draft budget in May, with a revised presentation date to the county commission set for May 14.

In addition to budget discussions, the board addressed the need for policy updates and governance training, with a request for qualifications (RFQ) for consultants already posted. The emphasis on community engagement and stakeholder feedback was a recurring theme, as the board seeks to strengthen relationships and ensure that the voices of families and educators are heard in decision-making processes.

As the district moves forward, the 100-day plan aims to create a cohesive educational journey for students, aligning curriculum and resources across feeder patterns to enhance academic continuity. Dr. Richmond's vision includes fostering community partnerships and ensuring that every student has access to quality education, regardless of their background.

The board's commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial as they implement these initiatives, with ongoing evaluations and updates planned to track progress. The next steps will involve refining the academic plan and ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged in the journey toward educational excellence in Memphis Shelby County Schools.