Serving 784 students in grades Prekindergarten-5, Downtown Elementary School ranks in the bottom 50% of all schools in Tennessee for overall test scores (math proficiency is bottom 50%, and reading proficiency is bottom 50%).
The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math is 18% (which is lower than the Tennessee state average of 34%). The percentage of students achieving proficiency in reading/language arts is 27% (which is lower than the Tennessee state average of 37%).
Minority enrollment is 97% of the student body (majority Black), which is higher than the Tennessee state average of 43% (majority Black).
Quick Facts (2026)
- School Type: Magnet School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-5
- Enrollment: 784 students
- Minority Enrollment: 97%
- Overall Testing Rank: Bottom 50% in TN
- Math Proficiency: 18% (Btm 50%)
- Reading Proficiency: 27% (Btm 50%)
- Science Proficiency: 13% (Btm 50%)
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), TN Dept. of Education
School Overview
Downtown Elementary School's student population of 784 students has grown by 6% over five school years.
School Type
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-5
(No virtual instruction)
(No virtual instruction)
Total Students
784 students
Total Classroom Teachers (23-24)
44 teachers
School Rankings
Downtown Elementary School ranks within the bottom 50% of all 1,728 schools in Tennessee (based off of combined math and reading proficiency testing data).
The diversity score of Downtown Elementary School is 0.17, which is less than the diversity score at state average of 0.62. The school's diversity has stayed relatively flat over five school years.
Overall Testing Rank
#1271 out of 1728 schools
(Bottom 50%)
(Bottom 50%)
Math Test Scores (% Proficient)
18%
34%
Reading/Language Arts Test Scores (% Proficient)
27%
37%
Science Test Scores (% Proficient)
13%
40%
Student-Teacher Ratio
n/a
15:1
American Indian
n/a
n/a
Asian
n/a
2%
Hispanic
2%
16%
Black
91%
20%
White
3%
57%
Hawaiian
n/a
n/a
Two or more races
4%
5%
All Ethnic Groups
Chronically Absent Students
(22-23)30.4%
23.6%
Participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
Yes
Eligible for Free Lunch
58%
45%
Eligible for Reduced Lunch
7%
6%
School Statewide Testing
School District Name
Sports
Total Sports Offered
2 sports
Sports
BasketballDance
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
3 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Gentleman's LeagueSTEM Club
Student Council
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), TN Dept. of Education
School Notes
- School Mascot: Skyscraper
- Downtown Elementary is an Enriched Academics Optional School (State of TN Reward School) with a strong academic program for both optional and non-optional students. With its distinctive architecture and bright, spacious interior, Downtown Elementary is a lesson in how design can enhance the learning environment. Our facility features computers in every classroom, as well as a computer lab with state-of-the-art equipment. We have a comprehensive science lab that is partially funded by the University of Tennessee College of Medicine. In addition, our school has art and music facilities utilized for both during and after-school programs. Overall, Downtown Elementary is a colorful and stimulating learning environment.
- Downtown Elementary is in a convenient location for those who live and work in downtown Memphis.
- Downtown Elementary takes pride in its highly-qualified and experienced staff. All teachers are certified in the state of Tennessee. More than 60 percent of the faculty hold master's degrees, eight percent have doctoral degrees, and eight percent are degreed Educational Specialists. Members of our faculty have also won the Rotary Award for Teacher Excellence, and seven teachers have earned National Board Certification. The hardworking faculty at Downtown Elementary is committed to ensuring students are challenged to achieve, and teachers are dedicated to caring about every child.
- Parents are valued partners in Downtown Elementary's goal of making the learning experience a joy for its students. The school invites parents to visit their child's classroom to observe, participate in tutoring, chaperone field trips, and otherwise become involved.
Profile last updated: 10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Downtown Elementary School's ranking?
Downtown Elementary School is ranked #1271 out of 1,728 schools, which ranks it among the bottom 50% of public schools in Tennessee.
What schools are Downtown Elementary School often compared to?
Downtown Elementary Schoolis often viewed alongside schools like Grahamwood Elementary School by visitors of our site.
What percent of students have achieved state testing proficiency in math and reading?
18% of students have achieved math proficiency (compared to the 34% TN state average), while 27% of students have achieved reading proficiency (compared to the 37% TN state average).
How many students attend Downtown Elementary School?
784 students attend Downtown Elementary School.
What is the racial composition of the student body?
91% of Downtown Elementary School students are Black, 4% of students are Two or more races, 3% of students are White, and 2% of students are Hispanic.
What grades does Downtown Elementary School offer ?
Downtown Elementary School offers enrollment in grades Prekindergarten-5 (No virtual instruction).
What school district is Downtown Elementary School part of?
Downtown Elementary School is part of Memphis-Shelby County Schools.
In what neighborhood is Downtown Elementary School located?
Downtown Elementary School is located in the Downtown Memphis neighborhood of Memphis, TN. There are 1 other public schools located in Downtown Memphis.
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