MEMPHIS, Tenn. — After a year-and-a-half and two search processes, Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) announced Friday that Dr. Marie Feagins has been selected as the district's new superintendent.
Dr. Feagins won two-thirds of the support in a second round of voting, which was then followed with those who first supported another candidate agreeing to make the decision unanimous.
"Dr. Feagins emerged as the choice after a comprehensive search that included robust input from the community, parents, teachers, and staff," said a statement from the district following the vote. "Through community meetings, listening sessions, and candidate visits, the Board learned of Dr. Feagins' deep understanding of urban education, commitment to equity, and academic vision for MSCS."
Dr. Feagins currently serves as the Chief of Leadership in Detroit. During her time in the district, Feagins helped improve graduation rates at a majority of the schools with initiatives and academic monitoring tools.
During the interviews, Dr. Feagins told the board that Memphis needs more mentors and resources to create a more dynamic district.
“The future of our country hinges on the success of public education and public schools. The future of our city depends on Memphis-Shelby County schools having the right leader at the helm,” said Dr. Feagins. “I believe that Memphis needs more. It needs more mentors and partners coming together and bridging our resources to create a dynamic district that means more to everyone.”
The more than a year-long search began after former MSCS Superintendent Joris Ray resigned amid a misconduct scandal in August 2022. Superintendent Tutonial ‘Toni’ Williams took over the role in September 2022. During the original search, which ended without a superintendent, Williams was one of three finalists, even after the MSCS board said early in the search she had "no desire" for the role, wanting only to serve as the interim.
Another search began, which led to three candidates from outside the MSCS school system: Yolanda Brown, Dr. Marie Feagins, and Dr. Cheryl Proctor. Those final three candidates for the Memphis-Shelby County Schools superintendent position faced interviews Friday, Feb. 2.
Even after the interviews, some came out in support of MSCS sticking with Interim Superintendent Williams for the permanent position.
MSCS said Dr. Feagins is scheduled to officially begin her tenure as superintendent after the close of the 2023-24 school year.