COLLIERVILLE, Tenn. –  Collierville Schools is proud to announce that Bailey Station Elementary School, Tara Oaks Elementary School, and West Collierville Middle School have been recognized as Apple Distinguished Schools for the 2026-2029 program term. Schools apply and are selected for this distinction based on their commitment to continuous innovation in education and using Apple products to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning.

This marks the first Apple Distinguished School recognition for Tara Oaks Elementary School, while Bailey Station Elementary School and West Collierville Middle School earned renewed designation after being recognized during the 2023-2026 program term. With these selections, Collierville Schools now has five Apple Distinguished Schools across the district. There are just over 1,200 Apple Distinguished Schools in 41 countries around the world.

Active Collierville Schools Apple Distinguished Schools:
Collierville Elementary School (2024-2027)
Crosswind Elementary School (2024-2027)
Bailey Station Elementary School (2026-2029)
Tara Oaks Elementary School (2026-2029)
West Collierville Middle School (2026-2029)

"We are incredibly proud of Bailey Station Elementary School, Tara Oaks Elementary School, and West Collierville Middle School for earning recognition as Apple Distinguished Schools," said Director of Schools Dr. Russell Dyer. "This designation reflects the outstanding work taking place across our district as teachers and school leaders create meaningful learning experiences that encourage students to think critically, collaborate, create, and explore. Each of these schools has built a culture of innovation that supports student learning in unique ways, and this recognition is a testament to the dedication of their educators, students, and families. We are honored to see their work recognized on a global stage and look forward to seeing these schools continue to inspire and empower learners in the years ahead."

Apple Distinguished Schools are centers of leadership and educational excellence, with a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning goals. In Apple Distinguished Schools, forward-thinking leaders and their communities work to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning, and they have documented results of academic accomplishments. 

”Having five schools recognized as Apple Distinguished Schools is a testament to the vision and creativity of our teachers and students,” said Chief Technology Officer Lisa Higgins. “Technology is most impactful when it strengthens the connection between teaching and learning, and our schools exemplify that approach. Apple’s products and software allow our educators to personalize learning, track student growth and activity, and empower students to demonstrate mastery in creative and authentic ways. This achievement reflects a culture of innovation that continues to enrich learning across our district."

Schools all over the world are using iPad and Mac to transform learning. As teachers incorporate technology into their lessons, they empower students to lead, learn, and thrive, to discover new opportunities, and to make their world a better place.