Magnificent Memphis Memories

So Mandy and I went to Memphis, Tennessee last week. Along with us were Paula, Ashley, and Jasmine. We had a great time and learned a lot of new things. We went for a Coalition of Essential Schools (CES) conference. CES is a network of small schools that help to fund and assist small schools. At the meetings you gain knowledge as to what you can do to make your school a better learning environment.

At this particular spring meeting in Memphis, we looked at the issue of equity within our education system. We visited River City High School of Leadership and Service. I’d have to say it was a pretty awesome school. The kids seemed so motivated and on the right track. There was also a 70% rate of parent involvement, that really impressed me.

We also went to the Civil Rights Museum. We saw many reenactments of the Civil Rights Movement. I’ve heard a lot about the Civil Rights Movement, but this really brought things to life for me. My favorite was seeing the actual hotel room where Martin Luther King Jr. was staying before he got shot. We also got to go across the street to the spot where James Earl Ray actually fired the shots.


Beale Street was alright; I think the nighttime would have been a better time to check it out. We ate at this good restaurant called Rendezvous--the wait was long but we got our food speedy quick. We actually went out to Graceland, but we had to catch our plane in a short amount of time so we couldn’t make it to actually tour Elvis’ mansion. But we did have some good food and amazing ice cream, and one crazy cab driver!!!


All together the trip was a great learning experience and I had a great time. I’m sure everyone else did too, except that we had to be to the meetings by 7 in the morning! It was totally worth it though, and I’m grateful I was chosen.

~by Camille