THE OFFICE OF THE SHELBY COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION 
BOARD OF EDUCATION:
Miska Clay Bibbs, Chairman

September 4, 2020

Michelle McKissack
Althea Greene
Stephanie Love
Kevin Woods
Sheleah Harris
Shante Avant
William “Billy” Orgel
Joyce Dorse Coleman

Official School Board Statement: Addressing the Epidemic of Violence in Memphis
When our students, families, and employees grieve, we grieve alongside them. To stand beside a family
in pain and simply offer condolences is heartbreaking because we cannot take the hurt away.
Furthermore, it’s unsettling to witness others push personal opinions following incidents like the tragic
passing of a Whitehaven High School student-athlete. Connecting an act of gun violence with the
District’s decision to delay fall sports and prioritize the health and safety of students and staff is
absolutely deplorable.
The large number of children affected by gun violence is an issue that impacts our entire city and
county. As a Board and District, we work tirelessly to intervene and support students in need. We also
partner with local organizations to combat violence in our neighborhoods. While we cannot control
everything that happens in our community, we diligently strive to holistically support every child.
Any instance when the life of a precious child is taken, we take it PERSONALLY. With poverty, crime
and violence plaguing our communities, we implore every resident to take what is happening
PERSONALLY. Now is the time to come together seeking solutions to eradicate violence in Memphis
and across the nation. Rather than casting blame, let us stand alongside our families with the
determination and power to actualize change.
For our children,
The Shelby County Board of Education

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160 S. Hollywood • Memphis, TN 38112 • (901) 416-5447 / (901) 416-9787 Fax • www.scsk12.org