By CA Staff Writer | Jan 22, 2025
Memphis, TN – In a contentious decision that drew significant public attention, the Memphis-Shelby County School (MSCS) Board voted 3-6 to terminate Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins’ contract on Tuesday night, effectively removing her from the role of Tennessee’s largest school district leader after just nine months in the position.
The decision followed a heated, four-hour special-called meeting at the MSCS headquarters on South Hollywood Street. Community members packed the auditorium, voicing their opinions on the leadership crisis during emotional exchanges with the board.
Dr. Feagins, who took the role in February 2024 following a two-year superintendent search, did not hold back in her response. She expressed her intent to pursue legal action against the board, stating:
“This is exactly the opposite of what an educational institution stands for. I believe many members of the board chose chaos over children and litigation over leadership. I’ll see them in court.”
Her tenure had been marked by challenges, including layoffs, leadership resignations, and backlash over contract changes. The board’s reasons for her dismissal included:
- Losing a $300,000 state contract for aiding unhoused students.
- Accepting a $45,000 donation without required board approval.
- Misleading the board and public regarding $1 million in overtime pay for hours not worked.
Dr. Feagins has labeled the board’s allegations as “meritless” and “extremely disappointing.”
Stepping in as interim superintendent is Dr. Roderick Richmond, who has served as MSCS Transformation Officer since June 2024. Dr. Richmond, a veteran educator, first joined the district during the 2013-14 school year and played a pivotal role as chief academic officer during the merger of Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools. Under his leadership, the district achieved significant milestones, including a ‘Level 5’ rating for student growth and recognizing 39 schools as Reward Schools.
“I am surprised yet honored to be offered this opportunity to serve as the interim superintendent for Memphis-Shelby County Schools,” Dr. Richmond said. “I look forward to working with the MSCS Board of Education on a path forward to ensure our students continue to have the education and resources they deserve.”
The MSCS Board remains divided, with members Michelle McKissack, Amber Huett-Garcia, and Tamarques Porter voting against Dr. Feagins’ termination. Board Chair Joyce Dorse Coleman defended the decision, stating, “After nine months, Dr. Feagins has not demonstrated the transformational leadership critical to the success of MSCS.”
Vice Chair Stephanie Love added, “Dr. Richmond is uniquely qualified to guide us forward. He will provide steady and experienced leadership while we determine our next steps in selecting a permanent superintendent.”
The controversy surrounding the decision extends beyond the board. Mark Billingsley, former chairman of the Shelby County Commission, called the move a setback for education in the district, stating, “I pray the state will step in immediately as we have an obligation to students and their families.”
However, McKissack cautioned against the consequences of starting over, emphasizing the need for stability in district leadership.
The board must now decide whether Dr. Feagins’ termination was with or without cause. If terminated with cause, the district avoids a payout. Without cause, MSCS would owe Dr. Feagins approximately $486,000—18 months of her salary.
The MSCS Board also plans to release its outside counsel’s findings on Dr. Feagins, detailing the reasons for her termination, in the coming days.
As the district navigates this turbulent transition, all eyes will be on Dr. Richmond and his ability to stabilize and guide the district forward.
Photo Credit: MSCS
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