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Memphis School Board Approves Closure of Five Schools

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Memphis school board is considering closing five schools, including Ida B Wells Academy, due to declining enrollment and significant maintenance costs.
The district has lost more than 10,000 students since 2014 and faces $1.6 billion in deferred maintenance.
The fertility rate in Memphis has dropped, contributing to fewer students in public schools.
The board approved the closures for the end of the school year.

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Story summary

The Memphis school board is considering closing five schools, including Ida B Wells Academy, due to declining enrollment and significant maintenance costs.
The district has lost more than 10,000 students since 2014 and faces $1.6 billion in deferred maintenance.
The fertility rate in Memphis has dropped, contributing to fewer students in public schools.
The board approved the closures for the end of the school year.