MEMPHIS, Tenn. — After months of waiting, Dr. Marie Feagins made her long-anticipated, official debut Monday as Superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS).
She wasted no time in engaging with teachers, students and parents by visiting Melrose High School and Fox Meadows Elementary School as part of her Voice Improves Partnership (VIP) community tour.
“Hearing the feedback and the concerns, the sharp critiques but most importantly, the hopes and dreams that our students and our staff, as well as our parents and our families, share for the students of Memphis-Shelby County Schools,” Dr. Feagins said, explaining the purpose of the visits.
She said making sure everyone has a voice is one of her top priorities.
“I want parents, caregivers, those who do some of the hardest work that exists, to know that they matter, that their voice matters, that we need them to do this work together,” Dr. Feagins said.
The United Education Association of Shelby County and Memphis-Shelby County Education Association make up the area’s two teachers’ unions. Leadership at both unions are excited by how the superintendent understands what is needed in the classroom.
“In our initial conversation, she asked me, ‘What is it that educators need to be taken off of their plates?’” said Danette Stokes, president of UEA Shelby County. “[She asked] how [she can] lessen their workload. To me, that meant everything.”
Stokes said they’ve already had talks with Dr. Feagins about teacher retention and recruitment.
“Nobody knows the needs of educators other than educators,” Stokes said.
Dr. Feagins said one of her first priorities will be improving the district’s infrastructure and buildings. At her last job, she played a major role in creating a $2.1 billion facility plan for Detroit Public Schools.
Her next school visits will be to Kate Bond Elementary and Middle schools on Thursday.
The VIP tours include evening trips to multiple locations throughout April. Those interested in attending these evening events can RVSP here. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.