MSCS issues call to action on violent crime

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Another call to action on violent crime was made Thursday, but this time it’s coming from the head of the largest school district in the state.

Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) interim Superintendent Toni Williams says it’s going to take an entire community to lower crime, but parents play a special role in making sure that happens.

Since Williams was appointed as interim superintendent in 2022, she says there have been 22 students that have died, most from homicides.

Thursday, Williams called on community stakeholders to focus on some of the root causes of violent crime such as subpar housing, food insecurity, and transportation.

However, Williams says issue number one for MSCS is making sure students are in school every day.

“Trying to understand, ma’am, sir, why aren’t you bringing your child to school? How can we offer you support? Is it food? Is it housing?  And we have a whole department that works directly with these state agencies to ensure students are supported,” said Williams.

William says MSCS has expanded community schools, wrap-around services, and other efforts to keep children engaged in school instead of criminal activity.

However, legally, parents or legal guardians are ultimately responsible and could face criminal or civil truancy charges.

“We’re talking about chronic absenteeism. We’re not talking about a few missed absences here and there, but when it goes on repeatedly, there have been repeated attempts at intervention,” said Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy.

Mulroy says he supports increased use of civil penalties for truancy cases, but Williams says there’s an even bigger issue looming.

“First and foremost, those calls I’ve gotten and the conversations I’ve had with parents... the after-school. So how do we keep students engaged after school, weekends, late nights?” asked Williams.

Williams says partnerships such as the one with the YMCA help in that part of the puzzle.

YMCA has partnered with all MSCS elementary and middle schools.

“So when the school bell rings, the Y is there and the kids can come to the YMCA in a structured environment that helps them with the academics, the fun and social, emotional learning part too,” said YMCA Chief Operating Officer Brian McLaughlin.

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