How to Tour Memphis Business Academy High

Visiting Memphis Business Academy High is more than a routine school tour—it’s a strategic step toward understanding an educational environment designed to blend academic rigor with real-world business acumen. For prospective students, parents, educators, and community stakeholders, touring this institution offers invaluable insight into its curriculum, culture, facilities, and student outcomes. Unlike traditional high schools, Memphis Business Academy High (MBAH) integrates business simulation, entrepreneurship training, and industry partnerships into its daily operations, making the tour experience uniquely immersive. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigating your visit effectively, ensuring you leave with actionable knowledge and a clear sense of whether MBAH aligns with your educational goals.

The importance of a well-planned tour cannot be overstated. A superficial walkthrough may miss the subtle cues that define a school’s true character—how students interact with mentors, how technology supports learning, or how leadership fosters accountability. This tutorial is crafted to transform your visit from a passive observation into an active evaluation. Whether you’re considering enrollment, researching for a report, or advocating for educational reform, mastering how to tour Memphis Business Academy High empowers you to ask the right questions, observe the right details, and make informed decisions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research the School’s Mission and Academic Structure

Before setting foot on campus, invest time in understanding Memphis Business Academy High’s foundational principles. Visit the official website and review its mission statement, academic calendar, course catalog, and graduation requirements. Pay special attention to its business-focused pathways—such as Finance & Accounting, Marketing & Entrepreneurship, and Business Technology. These aren’t electives; they’re core components of the curriculum, often taught in partnership with local corporations and financial institutions.

Understand how the school operates on a block schedule, with extended class periods that allow for project-based learning. Note the presence of internships beginning as early as sophomore year and the mandatory capstone business project required for graduation. This context will help you recognize the significance of what you’re seeing during your tour—like a student presenting a mock IPO to a panel of local investors or managing a simulated retail store in the school’s Business Lab.

Step 2: Schedule Your Visit in Advance

Memphis Business Academy High does not operate on an open-door policy for drop-in visitors. Tours are scheduled by appointment only to ensure minimal disruption to instruction and to allow staff to tailor the experience. Visit the school’s official website and navigate to the “Visit Us” or “Admissions” section. There, you’ll find a calendar link or contact form to request a tour date and time.

When scheduling, specify your purpose: Are you a prospective student? A parent? A district administrator? This helps the admissions team assign the most appropriate guide and customize the itinerary. Request a tour during regular school hours—ideally between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.—to observe authentic classroom dynamics. Avoid scheduling during standardized testing windows, holidays, or professional development days, as these may limit access to key areas.

Step 3: Prepare a List of Targeted Questions

Passive listening during a tour yields limited insight. Come prepared with a curated list of questions that probe beyond surface-level information. Focus on outcomes, support systems, and student experience. Examples include:

• How are students matched with business mentors or internship placements?
• What percentage of seniors complete a capstone business project, and how many receive external funding or recognition?
• How does the school measure success beyond standardized test scores?
• What professional certifications can students earn before graduation?
• How are parents engaged in the business-focused curriculum?

Ask about equity and access: Are there support systems for students who may not have access to business resources at home? How does the school ensure all students, regardless of background, can participate in internships and competitions?

Step 4: Arrive Early and Observe the Environment

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour. Use this time to observe the campus atmosphere. Note the signage—do students display business plans, financial reports, or startup logos? Are there digital dashboards showing real-time sales data from student-run enterprises? Is the library stocked with business journals and case studies, or is it primarily filled with textbooks?

Watch student interactions. Are they collaborating in teams? Are they using laptops to access business simulation software like QuickBooks, Salesforce, or Bloomberg Terminal demos? Are teachers circulating, asking probing questions, or simply lecturing? These non-verbal cues reveal the school’s pedagogical philosophy.

Step 5: Engage with the Tour Guide and Staff

Your tour guide is typically a current student leader, admissions counselor, or faculty member with deep knowledge of the program. Don’t hesitate to interrupt politely if something catches your attention. Ask follow-up questions like: “Can you show me where students pitch their business ideas?” or “How often do external business professionals visit the classroom?”

Request to speak with a current senior who completed a capstone project. Hearing firsthand accounts—such as how a student launched a sustainable fashion line that now sells locally—adds emotional weight and credibility to the program. Ask teachers how they differentiate instruction for students with varying levels of prior business exposure.

Step 6: Visit Key Academic and Operational Spaces

A comprehensive tour includes more than just classrooms. Ensure you visit these critical areas:

• The Business Innovation Lab: A dedicated space with computers, presentation screens, and mock office setups where students run simulated companies.
• The Student-Run Café or Retail Store: Many students manage daily operations, from inventory to customer service, under faculty supervision.
• The Career and College Center: Look for internship boards, corporate partner logos, and scholarship opportunities displayed prominently.
• The Makerspace or Tech Hub: Where students design marketing materials, build product prototypes, or code business apps.
• The Counseling Office: Ask how academic and career counseling are integrated with business planning.

Observe the physical environment: Is it modern and well-maintained? Are there student-created art installations with business themes? Are there quiet zones for focused work or collaborative tables for team meetings? The design of the space reflects the school’s values.

Step 7: Attend a Sample Class or Simulation

If possible, request to sit in on a 15–20 minute segment of a core business class. Observe whether the lesson involves case studies, role-playing negotiations, or analyzing real financial statements. Look for student-led presentations, peer feedback sessions, or use of digital portfolios to track progress.

Ask if you can witness a “Pitch Day” or “Business Expo” simulation. These events, held quarterly, mimic real startup incubators. Students present to panels of local entrepreneurs, bankers, and alumni. Seeing this in action reveals the school’s commitment to authentic assessment and real-world accountability.

Step 8: Review Student Work and Portfolios

Request to view student portfolios—digital or physical. These often include business plans, financial projections, marketing campaigns, internship logs, and reflections. A strong program will showcase growth over time: a freshman’s basic budget versus a senior’s multi-year profit-and-loss statement for a student-owned venture.

Look for evidence of external validation: Are student projects published in local business journals? Have they won regional or national competitions like DECA or FBLA? Are there testimonials from corporate partners? These are indicators of program credibility.

Step 9: Meet with Leadership

At the end of your tour, ask if you can briefly meet with the principal or director of the Business Academy program. This is your opportunity to ask high-level questions: How does the school measure long-term student success? What partnerships with local businesses are most impactful? How is the curriculum updated to reflect market changes?

Ask about faculty development: Do teachers receive training in business education? Are they encouraged to maintain industry connections? A school that invests in its educators’ professional growth is more likely to deliver a dynamic, relevant curriculum.

Step 10: Reflect and Document Immediately After

Within 24 hours of your tour, document your observations. Use a structured template to compare MBAH with other schools. Note:

• What surprised you?
• What was missing?
• How did students and staff make you feel?
• Did the environment feel inclusive and energizing?
• Would you want your child or student to learn here?

Photograph (if permitted) key displays, student work, or signage. Collect brochures, course guides, and contact information. This documentation becomes your decision-making toolkit.

Best Practices

Practice 1: Prioritize Authenticity Over Perfection

Don’t expect a flawless performance during your tour. Schools are living institutions, not stage productions. A student fumbling a pitch or a classroom running slightly behind schedule doesn’t indicate failure—it signals realism. What matters is how the staff responds: with support, encouragement, and professionalism. Observe whether the school cultivates resilience, not just achievement.

Practice 2: Look for Student Ownership

In a true business academy, students don’t just learn about business—they run it. Look for signs of student leadership: Are student officers managing the café? Are they organizing the annual business fair? Do they lead professional development workshops for peers? When students hold real responsibility, the learning becomes deeper and more lasting.

Practice 3: Evaluate Equity and Access

Ask: Who gets to lead? Who gets the internships? Are students from all backgrounds equally represented in advanced business roles? A school that claims to prepare all students for business careers must demonstrate equitable access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities. Look for data on participation rates by demographic group and ask how the school addresses disparities.

Practice 4: Connect the Curriculum to Real Markets

Does the school partner with actual businesses? Are students solving real problems for local companies? For example, has a student team helped a neighborhood restaurant redesign its digital menu? Has a finance class audited the budget of a local nonprofit? When classroom learning directly impacts the community, the relevance skyrockets.

Practice 5: Assess the Role of Technology

Technology should enhance, not replace, human interaction. Look for tools that simulate market dynamics—like stock trading platforms or CRM software—but also observe whether students are learning to communicate effectively, negotiate, and lead. The best business programs use tech as a tool, not a crutch.

Practice 6: Consider Long-Term Outcomes

Ask for data on post-graduation outcomes: What percentage of graduates enroll in college? How many enter business-related fields? How many start their own businesses within five years? Schools that track and publicly share this data demonstrate accountability and confidence in their model.

Practice 7: Engage with the Community

Walk around the neighborhood surrounding the school. Are local businesses proud to be associated with MBAH? Are there banners, sponsorships, or joint events? A school that is deeply embedded in its community fosters stronger student engagement and real-world relevance.

Practice 8: Avoid Superficial Comparisons

Don’t judge MBAH against a traditional high school. It’s not designed to be one. Instead, compare it to other business academies or career and technical education (CTE) programs. Focus on its unique value proposition: integrated business immersion, industry partnerships, and authentic assessment.

Practice 9: Bring a Notebook—Not a Phone

While phones are useful for photos, they distract from observation. Use a physical notebook to jot down impressions, quotes, and questions. Writing by hand enhances memory and critical thinking. You’ll remember more, and your reflections will be richer.

Practice 10: Follow Up

Send a thank-you note to your tour guide and the admissions team. Mention specific moments that stood out: “I was particularly impressed by how the senior team presented their social enterprise model to the local chamber of commerce.” This builds relationships and keeps you on their radar if you decide to apply.

Tools and Resources

Official Website and Digital Platforms

The Memphis Business Academy High website is your primary resource. It should include:

• Academic calendar and tour scheduling portal
• Course descriptions and graduation requirements
• Student and alumni success stories
• Partnership logos from local businesses and universities
• Links to student digital portfolios

Bookmark the site and check it regularly for updates, especially during application season.

DECA and FBLA Competitions

Memphis Business Academy High likely participates in DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) and FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America). Visit their national websites to explore competition categories and past winners. Seeing what students have achieved at state and national levels validates the program’s quality.

Business Simulation Software

During your tour, you may encounter platforms like:

• Capstone® Simulations: Used for marketing and management decision-making.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset Simulator: Teaches risk assessment and innovation.
• QuickBooks for Education: Real-world accounting software used by students.

Research these tools beforehand so you can ask informed questions about their implementation.

Local Business Partnerships

Identify key corporate partners—such as FedEx, Regions Bank, or local startups—and research their involvement. Do they sponsor student competitions? Provide guest speakers? Offer internships? This network is a major asset of the school.

Student Portfolios and Showcases

Ask for access to digital portfolios hosted on platforms like Seesaw, Google Sites, or Mahara. These often include videos of pitches, written reflections, and feedback from mentors. They offer a longitudinal view of student growth.

Community Events Calendar

Check the school’s calendar for public events: Business Expo Day, Career Night, or Student Venture Pitch Fest. Attending one of these events—especially if it’s open to the public—is one of the best ways to see the program in full swing.

Public Data Sources

Use the Tennessee Department of Education’s school report card to review:

• Graduation rates
• College and career readiness scores
• Attendance and discipline data
• Participation in CTE programs

Compare MBAH’s metrics with district and state averages to assess performance.

Alumni Networks

Search LinkedIn for alumni of Memphis Business Academy High. Look for their current roles, employers, and educational paths. Do they work in finance, tech, marketing, or entrepreneurship? Are they continuing their education? Alumni success stories are powerful indicators of program effectiveness.

Books and Articles on Business Education

Enhance your understanding by reading:

• “The End of College” by Kevin Carey – on alternative pathways to career success.
• “Drive” by Daniel Pink – on motivation and autonomy in learning.
• Articles from the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) on CTE innovation.

This background will help you contextualize what you observe during your visit.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Coffee Cart That Became a Brand

In 2022, a group of sophomore students at MBAH launched a student-run coffee cart called “Brew & Grow.” With seed funding from a local Rotary Club and mentorship from a barista-turned-business-consultant, they developed a brand identity, created a social media strategy, and tracked weekly profits. By senior year, they had expanded to two carts, hired three part-time student employees, and donated 15% of profits to a local youth literacy nonprofit. Their capstone project included a detailed financial analysis and a pitch to investors for a franchise model. Today, one of the founders is studying business at the University of Memphis with a minor in social entrepreneurship.

During a tour, you might see their original logo on display, sample their signature blend, or hear from a current student who now manages the cart. This is not an extracurricular—it’s a curriculum.

Example 2: The Internship That Changed a Life

A junior student from a low-income household was paired with a financial analyst at a Memphis-based credit union through MBAH’s internship program. He spent six weeks learning about credit scoring, loan underwriting, and customer service protocols. He didn’t just shadow—he analyzed real data sets and presented findings to the branch manager. At the end of the internship, he was offered a part-time job. He used his earnings to buy a laptop and began taking online courses in data analytics. Two years later, he was accepted into a prestigious business program with a full scholarship.

During your tour, ask to see the internship logbook or speak with the coordinator who manages these placements. This is where the school’s mission becomes tangible.

Example 3: The Pitch That Won State

In 2023, a team of three seniors competed in the DECA State Championship with a business plan for “EcoPack,” a biodegradable packaging solution for local food vendors. They had conducted market research, secured a prototype from a local maker space, and interviewed 50 small business owners. Their presentation won first place in the Entrepreneurship category. The prize money funded their first production run. Today, EcoPack supplies 12 local restaurants and is in talks with a regional distributor.

Seeing the actual presentation materials, financial projections, and customer testimonials during a tour reveals the depth of student work. This isn’t hypothetical—it’s entrepreneurial reality.

Example 4: The Teacher Who Stayed

Ms. Reynolds, a former corporate project manager, left her 15-year career in finance to teach at MBAH. She now leads the Finance & Accounting pathway. She brings real-world case studies from her time at Bank of America and uses them to teach budgeting, forecasting, and financial ethics. Her students regularly outperform district averages on end-of-course assessments. She also mentors students who want to pursue finance careers, helping them secure summer internships and scholarships.

When you meet her, you’ll notice how she speaks to students as future professionals—not just learners. That’s the culture of MBAH.

FAQs

Is Memphis Business Academy High open to all students in Memphis?

Yes, Memphis Business Academy High is a public school within the Memphis-Shelby County Schools district. Enrollment is open to all students residing within the district boundaries, typically through an application or lottery process. There are no tuition fees, and transportation is provided.

Do I need prior business experience to attend?

No. The program is designed to welcome students with varying levels of business exposure. Foundational courses introduce core concepts, and mentorship ensures all students can succeed. What matters most is curiosity, work ethic, and a willingness to engage with real-world challenges.

Can I tour the school without an appointment?

No. Due to the structured nature of the curriculum and the need to protect student learning time, all tours require advance scheduling. Walk-ins are not permitted.

What makes MBAH different from a traditional high school?

Unlike traditional schools that teach business as a subject, MBAH integrates it into every aspect of learning. Students don’t just study economics—they run businesses. They don’t just write essays—they create marketing campaigns. They don’t just take tests—they pitch to real investors. The school operates like a startup incubator with a classroom.

Are there college credits available?

Yes. Students can earn dual enrollment credits through partnerships with local community colleges. Courses in accounting, marketing, and business law often transfer as college credit. Many students graduate with up to 30 college credits.

How do students get internships?

The school’s Career and College Center maintains a database of local business partners who offer internships. Students apply through a formal process that includes resume workshops, mock interviews, and portfolio reviews. Internships begin as early as sophomore year and are credit-bearing.

What if my child isn’t interested in business?

While the school’s focus is business, the skills taught—critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and financial literacy—are valuable in any career. Many students who enter with no interest in business discover a passion for entrepreneurship, technology, or public service through their projects. The program is designed to be adaptable and student-centered.

How does the school support students with learning differences?

MBAH provides the same special education services as other Shelby County schools, including IEPs, 504 plans, and accommodations. Business simulations are adapted to ensure accessibility, and mentors are trained to support diverse learners. The emphasis on project-based learning allows multiple pathways to demonstrate mastery.

What are the graduation requirements?

In addition to state requirements, students must complete four business pathway courses, a year-long capstone business project, 100 hours of internship or community service, and a professional portfolio. They must also pass a final presentation to a panel of educators and business professionals.

How do I apply?

Applications are typically accepted between January and March each year for the following academic year. Visit the Memphis-Shelby County Schools website and search for “MBAH Application.” Required materials include a short essay, a parent/guardian form, and a recommendation from a current teacher.

Conclusion

Touring Memphis Business Academy High is not a casual visit—it’s an exploration of an educational model that redefines what high school can be. It’s where theory meets practice, where students become entrepreneurs, and where the classroom extends into the community. By following this guide, you move beyond passive observation to active engagement. You learn not just what the school offers, but how it transforms lives.

The power of this school lies not in its facilities or its name, but in its unwavering belief that every student can lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Whether you’re a parent weighing options, a student imagining your future, or an educator seeking inspiration, this tour is your gateway to understanding a new paradigm in secondary education.

Don’t just visit. Investigate. Question. Reflect. Then decide. Memphis Business Academy High doesn’t prepare students for the world of business—it prepares them to shape it. And that’s a difference that lasts a lifetime.