Commentary: New Superintendent offers hope for a new dawn in Memphis

As the Memphis community embraces change with open arms, we stand on the threshold of a new era, welcoming Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) newly appointed superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins with enthusiasm and hope.

Dr. Feagins takes over the mantle of leadership for a school district that needs innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. The families she will soon serve are entrusting their children’s future in her hands.

We offered three of those mothers an opportunity to express what they’re expecting and where they hope Dr. Feagins leads the school district in the coming years.

Morgan Oliver is a mother of five girls attending Kate Bond Elementary, Kate Bond Middle, and Cordova High School. Oliver is approaching the new administration with both optimism that Dr. Feagins can get the job done and hope that she utilizes the lessons learned in Detroit.

“With Dr. Feagins being a published author, I think she can bring a fresh perspective to literacy efforts in the district,” said Oliver. “MSCS is twice the size of Detroit Public Schools, but I have high hopes for her due to her experience with urban schools.”

The appointment of a new superintendent heralds not just a change in leadership, but a profound opportunity to redefine the trajectory of public education in Memphis. It is a chance to breathe fresh life into MSCS, revitalizing the approach to teaching and learning to better serve the needs of students.

Those needs are certainly on the mind of Dominique Wilson. She has two middle school boys at Memphis Business Academy and hopes Dr. Feagins focuses on helping Memphis students overcome the challenges they face outside of the classroom.

“I hope she is ready to put in the work and address all the issues MSCS students and families face. Traumatic experiences which are caused by the high crime rates in Memphis and low literacy and math scores throughout the district,” said Wilson. “We will see soon enough if she can handle all that comes with leading the largest schools district in Tennessee.”

Asia Jackson has twins attending Germantown High School. She says she’s done thorough research on the new superintendent and has concerns about her background but remains hopeful.

“I have concerns about the capabilities that Dr. Marie Feagins may bring to MSCS. I believe that our educational system requires a leader with a proven track record of positive change and a visionary outlook on academic success,” said Jackson. “While I am unsure of Dr. Feagins’ ability to provide the necessary direction for our youth, I remain hopeful that the school system will prioritize the academic success and well-being of our students under her leadership.”

As Memphis embarks on this journey together, let’s embrace the spirit of optimism these three mothers have and dare to dream of a future where every child can fulfill their potential, where every teacher is supported and empowered, and where every school is a beacon of inspiration and learning.

Together, we can write a new chapter in the story of Memphis-Shelby County Schools marked by excellence, innovation, and a relentless dedication to the success of every student.

The Tennessee Firefly is a project of and supported by Tennesseans for Student Success.