MSCS State Takeover
GOP lawmakers in the Tennessee legislature are pushing for a state-backed takeover of Memphis-Shelby County Schools, citing low academic performance and financial mismanagement. Here’s the latest news.
Florida-based company MGT drafted key policies and plans for the Memphis oversight board while the takeover was blocked. It’s done similar work in other school takeovers.
Oversight board Chair Billy Orgel informed the court Tuesday that last week’s meeting demonstrated the board’s readiness to take control of Memphis schools.
The oversight board’s first meeting in months came days after a federal judge said the MSCS takeover could resume once the body is ready to take control.
Board Chair Tamarques Porter and Vice Chair Sable Otey said in an exclusive interview with Chalkbeat that they’re focused on improving teacher development and rebuilding trust in MSCS.
A federal judge indicated Monday that he plans to lift the block on the state-appointed oversight board once it says it is ready to begin work.
Judge Waverly Crenshaw closely questioned attorneys for the Memphis-Shelby County school board, who argue the state takeover harms local students.
Tamarques Porter was elected to replace Natalie McKinney as Memphis-Shelby County school board chair. Sable Otey was tapped as vice-chair, replacing Joyce Dorse Coleman.
More than three months after Memphis school leaders sued over Tennessee’s takeover law, the case’s first full hearing is set for Oct. 2 in Nashville.
18 schools will remain closed for a second day. The district canceled classes Monday after a Saturday storm caused widespread power outages, including at 40 schools.
Most Memphians agree that something needs to change in MSCS to help students succeed. RSVP to join Chalkbeat Tennessee’s Bri Hatch and local education experts Aug. 31 for a live virtual event on potential solutions.
Together4Students wants MSCS to drop its lawsuit over the state takeover. It’s training young fellows to rally support.