• Optional School:  ALL students K - 5 are included in our Science and Technology Optional Program.
• Science Lab:  Every student attends class in the Science Lab each week, receiving instruction from our science specialist.
• Computer Lab:  Every student attends class in the Computer Lab each week, working at brand new Apple computers under the guidance of our technology specialist.
• Gym:  Students take P.E. in our full sized gym and play during recess on our on-site playground equipment.

• Diversity:  We represent and celebrate many cultures.
• Extended Learning:  Before and after school program.
• Awards:  Our students consistently win science fair, poetry, technology, and spelling prizes.
• Teachers:  National Board certified and Rotary Award recipients are on our faculty.
• Parents:  Active Parent/Teacher Organization.
• Setting:  Historic schoolhouse in the heart of Central Gardens.  Tranquil fishpond and flower gardens.
• Fine arts:  Local arts groups provide cultural opportunities at school and on field trips.

• Mrs. Gary gained National Board Certification during the 2006-2007 schoool year.
• Mrs. Rodda gained National Board Certification during the 2008-2009 schoool year.
• Mrs. Nathan has National Board Certification.

Idlewild’s renovation of the main hallway is well on its way thanks to Mr. Mah’s guidance and the support of Ms Phillips, Ms Catchings and our PTO. Over the summer new brighter lighting was installed and the lower half of the walls were painted a bright blue.  The gloominess of the former hallway is all but gone and has been replaced with a cheerful, child-friendly atmosphere more conducive to an elementary school.  The student designed and executed artwork that was facilitated by visiting artist, Jonathan  Hart last year now hangs prominently by the library doors.  Expect to see more positive changes throughout the coming year. 

Race For The Cure

Three Idlewild staff members ( Natalie Catchings, Linda Milam and Toni Spencer) participated in the Susan G. Komen "Race For The Cure" to help raise funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer.

Student Exhibition Preperation

Students in Mrs. Gary's got a little help for their projects from The Dixon Gallery "Art to Grow" program. Sarah Hall representing the Dixon Gallery, came to Idlewild School and gave students background information on Memphis architecture and helped students make3-D models of AutoZone Park, Clark Tower and the Woodruff-Fontaine House.

School Pride Assembly 09

Students are reciting our school pride mott.

Ms. Whitley Teaches Students Tinikling

Students in the 3rd, 4th, & 5th grades are participating in an activity called tinikling.  The dance involves two people hitting poles on the ground and against each other in coordination with one or more dancers who step over and in between the poles in a dance.  It originated in the Phillipines as an imitation of the tikling bird.  The students will learn to move to the beat of the music and tinikling sticks.  They will also learn to move with coordination while performing the assigned skills and appreciate other cultural dances.  Students will be able to create movement patterns using tinikiling sticks. 

Idlewild SACC "Lights On" Open House

Students participate in a variety of activities in the Idlewild After School program. During the "Lights On" Open House, parents were able to get a glimps of their children's happy faces as they enjoyed these activities.