MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis-Shelby County Schools board is convening a special meeting Wednesday night with just one item on the agenda – to address allegations that Superintendent Dr. Joris Ray violated school policy by engaging in sexual relationships with district staff members.
It is important that board members keep an open mind as their investigation proceeds. And that includes not appearing to look the other way at Ray’s conduct.
This burgeoning scandal came to light last week in divorce papers involving Ray and his wife, also a school district employee. The superintendent is accused of having adulterous relationships with multiple women – possibly including after he was appointed to the top job. Ray has acknowledged having affairs, but denies he violated school policy.
That remains to be seen and is what an independent investigation will hopefully determine. At Wednesday evening’s called meeting, the board is expected to take comments from the public. And I expect there will a lot said. Ray has faced heated criticism of late and this only adds to the complaints.
But this is more than just a salacious scandal. Our community continues to face plenty of education challenges. The last thing we need is this kind of distraction. Ray has received glowing performance evaluations in the past, but if these recent allegations are true, they are completely unacceptable and grounds for termination.
And the board must be prepared to do what’s necessary.