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"The MCS Optional School program has provided my children with a wonderful educational opportunity.  The program encourages students to rise to their potential, and gives them the skills and knowledge they need for great achievement.  The administrators and teachers have consistently provided a nurturing environment for learning." 

Gaye, Parent of Seventh Grader

Overview of schools

With more options than ever before, Memphis City Schools' Optional Program offers parents choices in education. Our 37 Optional Schools allow parents to tailor their child's education to best suit their needs, whether focusing on fine arts, college preparatory programs, or one of our four new theme-based programs.

At the elementary school level, Optional Programs focus on different approaches to education, including enriched academics, creative and performing arts, technology, Montessori, individually guided education, science, literacy, and our exciting new program in environmental science at Carnes Elementary and the innovative new dual language immersion program at Treadwell Elementary.

Optional Programs at the middle and high school levels are designed to prepare students for college and careers. Programs at these levels include college preparatory, international studies, aviation/travel and tourism, public service and communication arts, creative and performing arts, pre-engineering, technology and careers, arts and academics, military science, business and finance, health science, engineering, and our new program in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at Havenview Middle School and our new International Baccalaureate Candidate School at Ridgeway High School.

Providing a priceless value in world-class education, Memphis City Schools' Optional Programs are tuition-free for city residents. Non-city residents are required to pay tuition, which is determined by residency. City residents are given first priority for transfers, but students residing in the county and in other surrounding areas are also encouraged to apply. Parents of city applicants are usually notified by mail regarding the status of their child's application within six to eight weeks of the initial application date.

This website is designed to introduce prospective parents and students to our Optional Programs. You may also read individual brochures for more in-depth information about each Optional School. Parents are also encouraged to contact the schools to arrange visits.

If you have questions about any of these programs, please contact the Division of Optional Schools and Advanced Academics at (901) 416-5338, or call the individual schools at the telephone numbers listed on this website.