University Schools receives additional funding from NewSchools for high school planning 

Oct. 15, 2020 — In June, the University of Memphis received a competitive national planning grant of $100,000 from NewSchools Venture Funds to begin the development of a University High School. Four months later, NewSchools has awarded the UofM an additional $100,000 for the project’s planning efforts.  

The additional funds were supplied based on the school vision the UofM has crafted and the plans that have been developed for a successful launch. 

Planning for the high school began immediately after the initial grant was secured from NewSchools. That included the development of a physical space, the school culture and an innovative school curriculum. 

NewSchools makes investments to support leaders who are creating innovative public schools that embrace an expanded definition of student success. These schools provide students with a strong academic foundation along with other mindsets, skills and habits needed for success in life. 

“It is exciting to receive this additional funding from NewSchools, which will go a long way toward helping us create the dynamic and innovative educational experience we will provide in our University High School,” said Sally Parish, associate vice president for Educational Initiatives.   

University High School will prepare a diverse body of students with the knowledge, skills and mindsets needed to thrive in the 21st-century global community. With a focus on college preparation on a college campus, entrepreneurship and diversity and inclusion, University High students will be exposed to innovative and inclusive practices, transformational partnerships and equitable access to opportunities to propel their success in college and in life. 

“Across our entire University Schools system, we strive to provide educational experiences that enrich the lives of our students while also contributing to a growing body of research, best practices and practitioner development,” Parish said. “Our University High School will be no different as it opens doors for inspiration and collaboration that will propel our students in colleges, careers and creations that can change the world.”