MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Memphis lawmaker is moving forward with legislation calling for a state takeover of the Memphis Shelby County School Board.
This move is following what some call a controversial move by the board to fire its superintendent.
The details of the legislation will likely be introduced this week, with some speculating as early as Monday.
Rep. Mark White (R) said in the past week or so he has met with the governor and House and Senate leadership and they agreed to move forward.
State leaders say they’re “concerned” about the direction of the district following the “controversial firing” of superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins on Jan. 21. She was replaced by Superintendent Roderick Richmond.
Several board members said they had issues with Feagins over communication with the board and financial management. However, the move drew immediate criticism from many leaders at the local and state levels.
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Rep. White says his proposal would create a “nine-member board” over the next couple of years.
“The nine-member board will be made up of all Shelby Countians who are experts in the field of education, oversight, finance, curriculum, all the above. So it will be local leadership of those we’ll put in place,” said White.
As we wait for more details on the legislation, we will keep you updated.
