MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis-Shelby County School board has named a new interim superintendent during a meeting Tuesday evening.
The board announced Tutonial “Toni” Williams, the district’s Chief Financial Officer, will serve as interim superintendent.
The district is currently being led by deputy superintendent John Barker and Angela Whitelaw. The duo has been in charge since July when the school board put Dr. Joris Ray on paid leave.
Ray resigned last week following an investigation into his personal conduct.
While she serves as superintendent, it is not clear if there will be changes to her contract. The board said they wanted the interim superintendent to be someone who is not interested in the job permanently.
We were told her team will fulfill her CFO duties while she serves.
Williams, a Memphis native, is a graduate of Whitehaven High School. She earned her masters and bachelor’s degrees in accounting from Clark Atlanta University.
Williams began her career in school leadership in 2014 and helped with the first audits after the merger of Shelby County and Memphis City Schools. She has also held other roles at MSCS and worked with the Millington Municipal Schools and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Williams expressed her gratitude for the opportunity in a special message after Tuesday’s vote saying in part:
As Interim Superintendent, I look forward to continuing to enhance education in our community by ensuring that the District provides effective resources and opportunities for all students. I can think of no greater honor at this moment than to serve our exceptional teachers, staff, and students as Interim Superintendent. Thank you to the Board for its support, and thank you in advance to all in our community for uniting at this pivotal moment to show that now and always we are #MSCSTogether!
Williams said the school board will share more information about their search for the next superintendent in the coming days.