Editor's Note:
This article has been updated to reflect the latest information regarding the Memphis-Shelby County School Board and recent legislative developments affecting school board elections. Some details about district leadership and election law have been clarified to ensure accuracy.

Written by: JR Robinson

Dr. Melinda Harper’s story is one of vision, resilience, and a lifelong devotion to education. Though she didn’t grow up in Memphis, she has spent all of her adult years here, pouring her heart and expertise into the city’s schools and families. Now, after more than 30 years as an educator, principal, curriculum writer, professor, and researcher, Dr. Harper is ready to bring her world of experience to the Memphis-Shelby County School Board.

A Life Shaped by Education-Around the World and in Memphis

Dr. Harper’s journey began far from the banks of the Mississippi, but Memphis quickly became her home and her mission field. Her career has spanned continents and classrooms-not through travel, but through pioneering virtual teaching before it became commonplace. “My world wide teaching was virtual before virtual even became a thing. I have not traveled to the countries. But I had to know customs and traditions of the countries to be able to teach them with fidelity and respect,” Dr. Harper explains. This global perspective has shaped her approach to education, emphasizing respect, adaptability, and cultural awareness.

Through her acclaimed program, “Wives in Waiting, Husbands in Pursuit,” Dr. Harper has empowered women and families to build stronger, healthier relationships. She knows that when families are supported, children thrive-and schools become places of hope and achievement.

Answering the Call in a Time of Change

The Memphis-Shelby County School Board faces real challenges: budget constraints, aging facilities, and the urgent need to boost academic achievement for all students. The district is also navigating leadership changes, with a new superintendent recently taking the helm after a period of transition and scrutiny. Yet, Dr. Harper sees this as a moment of opportunity-a chance to restore order, elevate standards, and bring the community together for the sake of our children.

Dr. Harper’s vision is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and a relentless focus on student success. She believes the school board must be a place where every voice is heard and where decisions are made in the best interest of students, teachers, and families.

Inviting the Community to Join Her Journey

Dr. Harper’s campaign is about more than a seat on the board-it’s about building a movement for educational excellence in Memphis. She invites parents, teachers, students, and neighbors to walk alongside her, to share their hopes and concerns, and to help shape the future of MSCS.

“My journey has taken me around the world, but Memphis is my home,” Dr. Harper says. “I’ve dedicated my life to education because I believe in the limitless potential of every child. Now, I’m ready to bring my experience and my heart to our school board, and I invite the community to join me. Together, we can restore order, inspire achievement, and make our schools a source of pride for all.”

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for the School Board

As Dr. Melinda Harper steps forward to run for District 4, the future of the Memphis-Shelby County School Board is still being shaped. While the Tennessee legislature has passed a bill that could require all board members to stand for election in 2026 and impose term limits, this change is not yet law. It will only take effect if the Shelby County Commission votes to approve it in the coming months.

If enacted, this reform would give the community a rare opportunity to reshape the entire school board at once, increasing accountability and ensuring that board members reflect the will of a broader electorate. For now, Dr. Harper’s campaign represents a call for stability, vision, and community-driven leadership during a period of uncertainty and transition for Memphis schools.

Stay connected with Dr. Melinda Harper’s campaign for updates, events, and ways to get involved. Let’s shape the next generation of Memphis-together. More details coming next week!