In this video, McKenzie Cohen highlights the mission and impact of Collegiate, a private, college-preparatory Christian school serving middle and high school students in Memphis. In a city where only 18% of public middle school students meet English standards and private tuition averages $20,000 a year, Collegiate offers an affordable, high-quality alternative.

Founded in 2008, Collegiate set out to ensure that every Memphis child—regardless of zip code or family income—has access to an excellent Christian education. Today, with 17 years of operation and 12 graduating classes, 100% of Collegiate graduates have been accepted into four-year colleges or universities, and roughly 75% remain in Memphis, contributing to the city’s growth and vitality.

Through generous donors, organizations, and state support, up to 95% of tuition costs are covered by scholarships, with families contributing on a sliding scale (typically no more than $1,000 per year). Beyond affordability, Collegiate delivers proven results, with ACT scores averaging nine points higher than local neighborhood schools and stronger performance across nearly every academic measure.

Collegiate calls its approach “The Perfect Storm”: a transformative culture, dedicated educators, and intentional systems that meet every student’s needs. The school stands as a unique combination of access, quality, and belonging—preparing students for lifelong success while reshaping Memphis’ future.

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