MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Interim Superintendent of Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Tutonial "Toni" Williams has now welcomed the superintendent finalist chosen by the school board to lead the school district.
In a new public message, Williams urges the "MSCS family" to embrace Dr. Marie Feagins, who won two-thirds of the support in a second round of voting amongst the board.
Williams' message is as follows:
MSCS Family,
As a proud Memphis native and product of this District, it has been an honor to serve each of you as your Interim Superintendent. Being granted the opportunity to lead my passionate community has been one of my life’s most precious gifts. Eighteen months ago, I promised to give my all as a reformer – building a foundation based on integrity and accountability. I have dedicated my focus to increasing teacher pay, revitalizing our school communities, and exposing students to real-world experiences and enhanced academics.
Change is necessary for evolution, and I strongly believe that the future of MSCS has unparalleled achievements in store. It is my pleasure to welcome Dr. Marie Feagins as the next superintendent of our amazing District. She champions urban education excellence and is excited to partner with you all in this heartfelt work. Let's embrace her with open arms as she joins our incredible MSCS family.
I extend my most sincere gratitude and appreciation to you. Thank you for trusting me to guide our organization through challenging moments and pivotal decisions that led us to accomplishments and historic initiatives. I’m proud to say that we have paved a clearer path forward, and let’s sustain the momentum and demonstrate why our students are our guiding light.
Now, we must continue our critical work to educate students and partner with families. We have done phenomenal work this school year; let’s conquer the next few months and demonstrate why MSCS is a premier school district. I will remain committed to executing the mission and positioning our organization for a seamless transition. Together, we will ensure children remain at the forefront and finish this school year strong.
Always with you in the work,
Toni Williams
Interim Superintendent, Memphis-Shelby County Schools
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.
"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 shortly 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."
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. 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.
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.