SchoolSeed's Collaborative Partnership Supporting MSCS Since 2009

SchoolSeed Foundation has been a transformative force in Memphis, Tennessee, consistently working closely with donors to make a substantial impact on public education. This narrative encapsulates how SchoolSeed’s collaborative efforts with donors have deeply influenced every level of schooling from elementary to high school.

In 2019, SchoolSeed orchestrated the provision of classroom supplies valued at approximately $1 million, impacting every elementary school in the district. This endeavor ensured that students and teachers had the necessary resources to facilitate effective learning environments. Additionally, SchoolSeed has been instrumental in supporting teacher initiatives, distributing grants that have benefitted educators at nine elementary schools, including Germanshire School, Southwind Elementary School, and Whitney Elementary, among others.

Further demonstrating its commitment to enhancing educational experiences, SchoolSeed has invested $150,000 over the last three years in student incentive programs at Levi Elementary and Riverview K-8. These programs are designed to motivate and reward students for academic and behavioral achievements, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

SchoolSeed’s support extends to educational outings, with $60,000 allocated over three years to fund student field trips from Carver School, enriching student learning with real-world experiences. Moreover, from 2016 to 2019, over 2,000 teachers benefited from a teacher supply store initiative, which provided $1.7 million in resources to enhance the quality of education delivered in classrooms.

Since 2015, SchoolSeed has dedicated $250,000 to the East T-STEM Aviation Program, reinforcing its commitment to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, pivotal areas for future job markets. SchoolSeed's efforts don't stop at education alone; it has also focused significantly on systemic improvements. Notably, SchoolSeed spent $3.6 million to help the district overhaul the district’s budgeting process, introducing student-based budgeting to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of resources.

One of SchoolSeed’s hallmark events has been the funding of the district’s only college fair, the HBCU Awareness College Fair, for the past six years, impacting over 6,000 students since 2018 and opening doors to higher education opportunities.

In terms of staff support, more than $6 million has been invested in employee engagement and morale since 2010, with efforts peaking in 2022 when SchoolSeed, in partnership with corporate donors, injected $212,000 into teacher appreciation events. This reflects a deep appreciation for educators and their pivotal role in shaping future generations.

Furthermore, SchoolSeed annually allocates significant funds to directly support students in need. This includes more than $1 million annually for 50 students in the Bridge Up Giddy Up Equestrian Program at Havenview Middle and Whitehaven High School, and nearly $20,000 annually to support various food pantries in collaboration with Project Stand. Additionally, $100,000 is spent each year to assist homeless students and their families, providing crucial support services like clothing, food, and temporary housing.

A major achievement was the fundraising for the construction of the Jim Herbert STEM Center at Whitehaven High School. The $9.5 million, led by SchoolSeed, will mark a significant enhancement in educational infrastructure for MSCS.

In times of crisis, such as during the pandemic, SchoolSeed raised over $60,000 to aid 376 families through the SCS Board Cares Initiatives, proving its responsiveness and dedication to the community in urgent times. SchoolSeed has funded food distribution efforts in various school board member’s districts during the pandemic.

Through these extensive and varied initiatives, SchoolSeed Foundation not only demonstrates an unwavering commitment to education but also a profound impact on the Memphis community, embodying a model of cooperation, support, and dedication to advancing public education.