Teachers Protest Potential Merger of Memphis Charter Schools

Believe Memphis Academy teachers fear closure or consolidation would disrupt student support and community ties.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Teachers at Believe Memphis Academy are speaking out against a potential closure or merger with Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School, which they believe would disrupt student support systems and negatively impact the Alcy Ball community. The school serves over 500 students, more than 70% of whom have Individualized Education Programs. Teachers say they were informed of the possible closure less than a week ago and argue the school is showing improvement despite being designated as a Priority School.

Why it matters

The potential closure or merger of Believe Memphis Academy has sparked concerns from teachers and parents about the disruption to student support and the school's role in the Alcy Ball community. As a charter school serving a high-needs population, the fate of Believe Memphis Academy is seen as an important issue for educational equity in Memphis.

The details

Believe Memphis Academy is currently listed as a Priority School on the 2025 State Priority List and designated as a TVAAS Level 2 school, meaning it is below state expectations. The school has a 42% chronic absenteeism rate and a 15% suspension rate. Teachers argue that factors beyond test scores, such as social-emotional support, should be considered, and that the school is showing improvement. More than 1,000 people have signed a petition opposing the closure or consolidation of the school.

  • Teachers were informed of the possible closure less than a week ago.
  • The school board is currently considering options but has not set a timeline for a final decision.

The players

Believe Memphis Academy

A charter school in Memphis, Tennessee that serves over 500 students, more than 70% of whom have Individualized Education Programs.

Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School

Another charter school in Memphis that is being considered for a potential merger with Believe Memphis Academy.

Randi Cuzma

A seventh-grade special education teacher at Believe Memphis Academy.

Alicia Norman

The board chair of Believe Memphis Academy.

Gala Hayes

A teacher at Believe Memphis Academy.

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What they’re saying

“We don't want to see our students have to go elsewhere. They are not only making so much growth, but they have the potential to score what they need to score, even though I do believe they are more than the test scores.”

— Randi Cuzma, Seventh-grade special education teacher (localmemphis.com)

“And all of those outside factors and those social-emotional factors, they matter. So it's more than just a number; it's more than just being on a list. Especially when we are not the only ones on that list, and we are committed to making sure that we work to get off of that list.”

— Gala Hayes, Teacher (localmemphis.com)

“But there's nothing that they have told us that leads to any sort of understanding of a partnership. We have been told that, yes, you will [have to] apply other places in order to have a job next year.”

— Gala Hayes, Teacher (localmemphis.com)

What’s next

The school board is currently considering options but has not set a timeline for a final decision on the potential closure or merger of Believe Memphis Academy.

The takeaway

The potential closure or merger of Believe Memphis Academy has sparked concerns from teachers and parents about the disruption to student support and the school's role in the Alcy Ball community. As a charter school serving a high-needs population, the fate of Believe Memphis Academy is seen as an important issue for educational equity in Memphis.