MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Board of Commissioners has secured funding for its Fall Break Learning Academy after the administration initially canceled the program due to a lack of funding.
The Fall Break Learning Academy was originally cancelled due to a $30,000 funding gap. In response, School Board Commissioners worked with multiple donors to secure funding through alternative means, allowing hundreds of students on the waiting list to attend the academy at the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South. Along with the SchoolSeed Foundation, the independent fundraising arm of MSCS, donors included Tennessee Valley Authority, The Carter Malone Group, Cigna Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee, Pursuit of God Church Memphis.
Commissioners Sable Otey and Towanna Murphy were also central to fundraising efforts, reaching out to community partners and businesses to restore this essential program, according to a press release.
Fall Break Academy is set to begin on Monday, Oct. 7-11 and is free of charge. The learning academy not only provides a safe environment for students during the break but also supports academic achievement and enrichment, officials say.
“This resource is something that parents have come to expect, and we cannot underestimate the importance of providing consistent opportunities for student learning and engagement, especially outside of the regular school schedule." said Vincent J. McCaskill, President and CEO of SchoolSeed Foundation.
