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About Us

Our Mission

MISSION STATEMENT

Through rigorous academics, high quality instruction, and character development Memphis Merit Academy Charter School educates scholars in kindergarten through eighth grade for success in high school, college, and life.


VISION
"At Memphis Merit Academy Charter School, our vision is to cultivate a dynamic learning community where scholars thrive academically, personally, and socially. Through a commitment to rigorous academics, high-quality instruction, and character development, we aspire to empower students from kindergarten through eighth grade with the knowledge, skills, and values essential for success in high school, college, and life. Our vision is grounded in the belief that education is the key to unlocking the full potential of every scholar, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning. Together, we strive to build a foundation for excellence, equipping our students with the tools they need to become compassionate, responsible, and resilient leaders in their communities and beyond."


Our team of highly skilled and knowledgeable staff are dedicated to our students, and work tirelessly to ensure each and every child at Memphis Merit Academy receives the quality education and support they deserve. Students are given everything they need to succeed in a structured environment in which they can form their educational base and explore their interests. 


Core Values

Our Core Values shape how we run our school, and we derive great pride in upholding these standards:


  • From day one, we believe in preparing our students for college. 
  • Literacy is the gateway to a world of knowledge. 
  • High-quality instruction yields outstanding results. 
  • Every decision we make is driven by the desire to improve academic performance. 
  • Developing strong character is at the heart of our values-based community.



OUR ORIGIN STORY

History

Memphis Merit Academy's passionate Founder and Head of School, Lakenna Booker, sought to move back to Memphis after finishing school to bring free, high-quality education to the children in the Parkway Village neighborhood where she grew up.


Memphis Merit Academy Charter School was officially approved for authorization in August of 2018 by the Memphis Shelby County School Board. The school opened in the fall of 2019 with 100 enthusiastic Kindergarten scholars.


Today, we’re on track to expand one grade level each year until we reach our full potential in the next couple of years. As of fall 2023, we are educating more than 370 scholars in Kindergarten through 5th grade, providing high-quality education and support in an otherwise underserved neighborhood in Memphis, Tennessee. 

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