Memphis-Shelby County Schools holds listening session for community, facing mounting scrutiny amid takeover concerns and safety threats
Memphis-Shelby County Schools faces mounting pressure over a possible state takeover and health issues as parents and officials demand accountability.
Lauren Turman
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis-Shelby County Schools is facing growing scrutiny from parents, students and community advocates amid rising concerns over student safety, leadership instability and the possibility of a state takeover.
Tensions have escalated in recent weeks following a series of unsettling developments, including a hand, foot and mouth disease outbreak at Sherwood Elementary, renewed calls to align school board elections with county elections and a surge in safety threats across district campuses.
Interim Superintendent Roderick Richmond took time to reflect on the past — specifically, the history of the Memphis City Schools and Shelby County Schools merger. He argued that since the city surrendered its charter in 2011, support from both city and county officials has dwindled, and said a state takeover is not the solution to any of their recent problems.
While state involvement in MSCS is not a new concept, the issue has reemerged following the controversial ousting of superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins in January 2025. The meetings surrounding her removal were often contentious, with both verbal and physical altercations.
Many parents attending the meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 3, expressed frustration and skepticism that their concerns would be taken seriously. One speaker accused district leaders of planning to “go back to business as usual” without addressing the root problems.
District officials acknowledged growing unease about safety, revealing that law enforcement was called 12 times in the past month in response to bomb and shooting threats at MSCS campuses.
Leaders promised to review and respond to all questions raised during the session in the coming days.
As pressure continues to mount, families and community members say they are demanding more than reassurances — they want action and accountability.
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