Memphis’ first day of school by the numbers: enrollment improves, but teacher vacancies stagnate

Memphis-Shelby County Schools reported a slight enrollment increase to nearly 106,000 students for the 2026-27 academic year, but teacher vacancies remain steady at around 300. The district plans to close up to 10 more schools due to high repair costs and underenrollment. Five schools closed in the previous year, displacing over 1,200 students, and the state takeover of the district remains under federal court review.