Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) released new details this week for what the district’s school board will be looking for in the search for a new superintendent.
Board members have said they’re aiming to appoint a leader who will accelerate ongoing operational reforms and academic gains, in addition to being a “dynamic, visionary, and adaptable leader.” The updated job posting includes a stronger focus on these attributes including:
- Strategic Leadership on Budget and Finance
- Governance and Board Leadership
- Attracting, retaining, and building capacity of a strong team
- Positively impacting their district’s culture and climate
- Impactful and savvy community advocacy
- Effective change management
“Our motto for the 2023-24 school year is ‘see the future,’ and we are determined to find a visionary with the experience to help us innovate and elevate,” said District 9 Board Member Joyce Dorse Coleman. “Our babies, our students, deserve a top-notch candidate who can take Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) to new heights.”
The basic qualifications were updates were approved in a board meeting in June following multiple retreats hosted by education advocate and former two-term board member Tomeka Hart Wigginton and discussions with search firm Hazard, Young, Attea, and Associates.
The district has been searching for a new superintendent since July 2022 after former superintendent Joris Ray resigned following allegations of abuse of power and policy violations.
Applications will close November 1 and board interviews will start in November with the goal of having a new superintendent appointed on or before February 1, 2024.
