Local Considerations
Memphis, Tennessee Metropolitan Area

Mental Health and Emotional Support: Mental health is a crucial component of student success. Hip-hop therapy and artistic expression can provide emotional outlets and support mental well-being.

-The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) reported in 2021 that approximately 37% of high school students in Tennessee felt sad or hopeless almost every day for two or more weeks in a row, impacting their usual activities. Memphis has limited access to mental health services, particularly for low-income families. Hip-hop therapy can provide an accessible and relatable form of mental health support.

 

- According to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), Memphis is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for mental health services.

 

-The U.S. Census Bureau reports that Memphis has a poverty rate of approximately 24.6% (as of the latest data), which is significantly higher than the national average. Economic barriers can limit access to mental health services for low-income families who may lack insurance or the means to pay for care out-of-pocket.

 

-A report by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services highlights that a significant portion of the population in Memphis relies on Medicaid or is uninsured, which can further restrict access to mental health care due to limited provider availability and coverage

 

  • Academic Relevance and Engagement: Incorporating hip-hop into education can make learning more engaging and relevant for students in the Memphis Metropolitan area. This approach can support academic performance and increase student engagement.

 

  • Memphis Academic Statistics:
    • In 2022, the Tennessee Department of Education reported that 22% of students in the Shelby County Schools (SCS), which serves Memphis, were proficient in English Language Arts (ELA) and 21% in math.
    • The graduation rate for Shelby County Schools in 2021 was approximately 77%, which is below the national average of 86% (National Center for Education Statistics).