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Shelby County Schools Superintendent is on the side of students

Dr. Joris Ray has said that if the COVID-19 numbers continue to surge, he will do whatever needs to be done for the safety of the students.

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — As the coronavirus continues its stubborn spread, the focus is shifting a bit – away from the politicians and even health department officials – and to the public schools. That has put Shelby County Schools superintendent Dr. Joris Ray squarely in the spotlight – as the district faces the monumental task of reopening schools next month.

This is obviously more than Ray bargained for when he was appointed superintendent in April of 2019. But he has stepped up admirably. And he is showing true leadership as SCS plans for fall classes. 

The good thing is, Ray has made it clear he will not be bullied into opening up classrooms for all students. Currently, 70 percent of parents have said they want their children in virtual learning for the fall semester. Final decisions are expected late this week. And Ray is adamant that if coronavirus cases continue to surge, he will not hesitate to move all classes online.

That’s completely opposite of the demands coming from the White House and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos – who are insisting that all schools open their doors this fall – despite the spread of the virus. But Ray is being sensible. 

This is not about politics – and certainly not about helping the president with his reelection by pretending everything is fine. Everything is not fine. And Shelby County Schools is being prudent as it plans for the fall. That’s leadership – not politics. And that’s my point of view. I’m Otis Sanford for Local 24 News. 

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