Fri. Feb 14th, 2025

MSCS could file lawsuit if state takes over the school board

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MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The fallout continues after the firing of former Memphis-Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins.

Now, there appears to be a strong push for the state to take over the school board that fired her.

That, as Dr. Feagins brings on a new attorney who’s already hinting at what’s ahead.

House Speaker Cameron Sexton is said to be among those now ready to move forward with taking over the school board after board members fired Superintendent Dr. Marie Faegins.

“I believe there’s been more talk about it since there may be a bill filled,” State Representative Karen Camper said.

Representative Camper said she is against the move.

“My point of view is that they are a duly elected body, and it is their job to hire and fire a superintendent,” Camper said. “They know the ins and outs of what goes on on the board. They know the ins and outs of the duties and responsibilities she has.”

When the takeover effort could gain full steam remains to be seen. During the current special session only vouchers, hurricane relief and immigration can be voted on.

The school board takeover vote would have to wait until the regular session and would take a simple majority to pass, depending on what’s filed.

“He could very well do it, Camper said. “But here again, it’s going to end up in court because surely the Memphis-Shelby County school system is going to file a lawsuit.”

Dr. Feagins appears to be moving ahead in her promise of a court fight.

“They chose litigation over negotiation,” Dr. Feagins said. “I will see them in court.”

A letter from her new attorney William Wooten was sent out Friday, asking recipients to preserve letters sent to certain parties related to the termination of Dr. Feagins.

Included in those who got a request were former Memphis City Council and School Board member Martavius Jones.

“So, I was shocked that my name came up regarding this,” Jones said.

Jones said his interaction with Dr. Feagins has been limited to a few encouraging texts.

“A text message that I will share with you was encouraging Dr. Feagins to keep your board informed and communicate with your board,” Jones said.

On Facebook, he said he broke down how much time Dr. Feagins must have spent with each board member based on the number of hours she provided and how elected officials have more information than the public.

“I’m more than willing to share,” Jones said. “I have absolutely nothing to hide about my interactions with Dr. Feagins.”

That as the threat of litigation looms.

WREG reached out to House Speaker Cameron Sexton about his plans to push for a school board takeover.

So far, we have not heard back.

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