Written By: JR Robinson

Jason Sharif, a lifelong advocate for the community and youth, is running for the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Board of Education in District 7. As a proud product of the legacy Memphis City Schools, having attended Gardenview Elementary, John P. Freeman Optional School, and Whitehaven High School, all within District 7, Sharif believes in the potential of MSCS and wants to use his experience to help the district address the challenges it faces.

Sharif's background in education and community engagement makes him an ideal candidate to represent the interests of students, families, and educators in MSCS. He has served in the Tennessee Department of Children's Services as a Child Protective Services Investigator, Juvenile Justice Probation Officer, and Juvenile Justice Regional Coordinator, and has also taught sixth-grade social studies at Craigmont Middle School and served as director of the Westwood High School Boys & Girls Club.

Sharif's commitment to the community is evident in his work as a neighborhood organizer for Whole Child Strategies, where he focuses on developing a new generation of leaders to serve our communities. His experience as a teacher and his understanding of the needs of students and educators will be crucial in addressing the issues facing MSCS, including low literacy rates, standardized test scores, and the need for increased funding and community partnerships to address the holistic needs of students.

As a board member, Sharif plans to focus on listening to principals, teachers, and families to understand the specific needs of District 7 and work collaboratively to find solutions. His dedication to the community and his passion for education make him a strong candidate to represent the interests of students, families, and educators in MSCS.

Recent Wins and Challenges

MSCS has recently invested an additional $28.4 million toward teacher salaries in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, reflecting the district's commitment to supporting its educators.  The district has welcomed Dr. Marie N. Feagins, as its new Superintendent. “I am ready to continue deeply personal work with some of the best and brightest leaders and learners in the state,” she said, “and take on the world!” in an early-morning email to all staff.

Jason Sharif's dedication to the community and his experience in education make him an ideal candidate to represent District 7 on the MSCS Board of Education. His commitment to listening to the needs of students, families, and educators will be crucial in addressing the challenges facing the district. With his background in education and community engagement, Sharif is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of students in Memphis-Shelby County Schools.