Elliot Perry is a native Memphian who wants his hometown to know what the rest of the nation does – that Memphis is home to a host of champions with creative solutions for giving every child a chance at a first-class education.

Here, we will introduce you to some of the organizations and people working right now to change urban education in Memphis:

• From talented teachers choosing to stay in Memphis to innovative methods for improving teacher accountability
• Initiatives preparing outstanding leaders to better support teachers and students
• Strategic efforts to improve teacher recruiting

These organizations and individuals are on the ground working diligently to make high-quality education a reality for every child in Memphis. They are Champions for Urban Education in Memphis and they need our support.

Each of us can play a part in these efforts during this unprecedented time in our city’s history by taking action:

» Be a champion

» Donate

» Mentor, Advocate & Learn More

“It’s not about one system or one solution. There are many chapters in the story of the work taking place day in and day out in our city and in our neighborhoods to transform our schools. But, at the end of the day, there is one thing I know for sure – every child deserves a high-quality education.”Elliot Perry

Six Teachers Discuss Best Practices on PBS Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) has launched “No Greater Calling,” a resource for parents and teachers to advance students’ learning experience. The ideas stem from six teachers who share teaching strategies as well as the results those strategies produce in the classroom. The profiles emphasize professional development, high standards, and …

The Nation’s top 10 high schools have been ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Let’s get MCS and Shelby County on the map by 2017! Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High School Martin Luther King, Jr. Academic Magnet High School Merrol Hyde Magnet School Brentwood High School Farragut High School Oak Ridge High School Houston High …

Can’t afford college? Don’t worry. Here are some tips found in the USNews.com article, “4 Overlooked Ways to Pay for College.” Federal Loans/ Grants: types can be found online at SimpleTuition, Department of Education, and Sallie Mae 529 Plans: investment options with tax benefits that can be contributed to college expenses Regiment Yourself: stow away …

“Only 4% of MCS students graduate college ready. Only 20% of Shelby County students graduate college ready. Why should we fight amongst ourselves, when all of our kids need a better education.?”

Elliot encourages the community to act, presenting education initiatives with positive results in our city. Those expected to attend include: parents, community leaders/members and educators. Come along and bring your neighbors. When: Wednesday, April 25th @ 6:30p.m. Where: St. George’s Episcopal Church (2425 S. Germantown Road, Germantown, TN 38138) Type: Open

“Reading is just like playing basketball. How do you get your jump-shot better? The more you practice and work on it, you’ll get better and better.”

Collegiate School of Memphis prepares young ladies and gentlemen for college success within a highly-structured, nurturing, Christian environment. In addition to the core academic courses, this college prep offers a variety of experiences including: Bible Music Computer Art Spanish Latin Physical Education