Overview

• The Memphis-Shelby County Schools board voted 5-4 to defer a resolution to terminate Superintendent Marie Feagins' contract to a committee meeting on January 7, with a final vote expected on January 21.
• Feagins is accused of misleading the board on overtime payments, mishandling a $45,000 donation, and missing a federal grant deadline, allegations she has strongly denied as baseless and meritless.
• The decision followed a contentious public meeting where Feagins received strong support from community members, many of whom criticized the board for considering her removal just eight months into her tenure.
• Board Chair Joyce Dorse-Coleman introduced the resolution, citing Feagins' alleged detrimental conduct, while other board members argued for patience and collaboration to address concerns.
• The district, already grappling with leadership instability and significant challenges, risks further turmoil as the board navigates community backlash and state scrutiny over its handling of the matter.