Memphis-Shelby County Schools appoints new assistant superintendent

Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Superintendent Marie Feagins has appointed Janice Tankson, a 25-year education veteran, as the district’s new superintendent of schools, according to a Monday announcement.

According to a district news release emailed to Tennessee Firefly, Tankson will oversee the Office of Teaching and Learning, Special Programs-Family Engagement, Advanced Academics, and Early Childhood. She will be tasked with “maximizing the academic performance of students, educational leaders, and the operational efficiency of campuses,” utilizing her extensive experience in various educational roles.

Tankson’s background includes work as a teacher, computer technology coordinator, summer director, assistant principal, principal, and instructional leadership director. District officials noted that throughout these roles, her collaborative efforts have focused on “empirical strategies to boost student achievement and improve school effectiveness.”

“Dr. Tankson has a proven track record of strengthening outcomes for schools,” Feagins said. “With her deep understanding of educational leadership across elementary, middle, and high schools, she is uniquely prepared to drive positive change in our district.”

Tankson earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and General Sciences from Mississippi State University. She later pursued a Master of Science Degree in Administration and Supervision (K-12) and a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Policy Studies with a concentration in Executive Leadership from the University of Memphis.