Dr. Marie Feagins’ tenure as Superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) was marked by controversy and abrupt termination
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. Appointed in February 2024, Feagins brought experience from her previous role as Chief of Leadership and High Schools in Detroit Public Schools Community District
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. However, her time in Memphis was short-lived, ending in January 2025 when the MSCS Board of Education voted to terminate her contract
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The board’s decision came after allegations of misconduct and mismanagement surfaced
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. Feagins was accused of misleading the board and the public about financial matters, including accepting a $45,000 donation without board approval and failing to obligate federal grant funds before the deadline
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. Additionally, she faced criticism for job cuts and personnel moves that led to instability within the district
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Despite the allegations, Feagins denied any wrongdoing and claimed that her actions were above board
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. She hired personal counsel to defend her actions and argued that the board’s decision lacked due process
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. The public was divided on the issue, with some community members supporting Feagins and others calling for her removal
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The board’s decision to terminate Feagins was not unanimous, with some members expressing concerns about the process and the potential impact on the district
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. Board member Michelle McKissack, who opposed Feagins’ removal, called the allegations a “clerical error” and criticized the board for not following proper procedures
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. Despite these objections, the board voted 6-3 to fire Feagins and appointed Dr. Roderick Richmond as interim superintendent
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The firing of Feagins has left MSCS in a state of uncertainty, with elected officials and community members questioning the board’s decision-making process and the future leadership of the district
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. State Rep. Justin J. Pearson and Shelby County Commissioner Britney Thornton voiced their concerns about the lack of due process and the potential repercussions for the district
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As MSCS moves forward, the focus will be on finding a new leader who can provide the transformational leadership needed to address the district’s challenges and ensure the success of its students
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. The board’s handling of Feagins’ termination has raised questions about governance and accountability, highlighting the need for transparency and collaboration in the decision
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