Memphis Schools Accept Donation from Musk Foundation

Funds to support student rewards, homelessness programs, and school upgrades

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) board voted to accept an in-kind donation from the Musk Foundation. The donation will go towards a behavioral incentive program, establishing laundry and shower facilities, purchasing hygiene kits and uniforms, and providing tutoring and transportation for students experiencing homelessness. Additionally, funds will be allocated for upgrades and renovations to several schools in northwest Shelby County.

Why it matters

This donation from the Musk Foundation aims to address key challenges facing the MSCS district, including student attendance, homelessness, and aging school infrastructure. By investing in these areas, the district hopes to improve student outcomes and support vulnerable populations.

The details

The donation includes approximately $100,000 for a behavioral incentive program, $200,000 for homelessness support programs, and an undetermined amount for school upgrades and renovations. The district will enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Musk Foundation to govern the use of the funds.

  • On February 11, 2026, the MSCS board voted to accept the donation from the Musk Foundation.
  • In July 2025, the district accepted a separate donation from xAI to benefit four schools in South Memphis.

The players

Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS)

The public school district serving Memphis, Tennessee and Shelby County.

Musk Foundation

A philanthropic organization founded by Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX.

xAI

An artificial intelligence company that previously donated to MSCS in 2025.

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What’s next

The district and Musk Foundation will finalize the Memorandum of Agreement to determine the full scope and timeline of the donation projects.

The takeaway

This donation from the Musk Foundation represents a significant investment in addressing critical needs within the Memphis-Shelby County Schools district, including student support, homelessness, and school infrastructure. The partnership between the district and the foundation has the potential to drive meaningful improvements for students and the broader community.