Written by: JR Robinson

The Memphis-based coalition "Save Our Students" (SOS) has positioned itself as a defender of local control over Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), claiming to oppose state intervention and advocate for additional resources and solutions. However, a closer examination reveals that SOS may be more about self-promotion than genuine concern for students.

A Coalition of Convenience

SOS is led by figures such as Ron Redwing and Cardell Orrin, with support from individuals like Corey Strong, Shante K. Avant, and Miska Clay Bibbs. This group has rallied against state legislation proposed by Rep. Mark White, which calls for a state-appointed management board to oversee MSCS due to concerns about leadership instability and governance failures. Despite their rhetoric of opposing "state intrusion," SOS appears to lack widespread community support, as evidenced by their minimal social media traction—only 52 likes on their platform.

Where Were They During the Crisis?

The coalition's sudden emergence raises questions about their motivations. When the MSCS board controversially fired Superintendent Dr. Marie N. Feagins after just nine months—despite her efforts to streamline bureaucracy and improve schools—SOS was notably silent. Dr. Feagins had garnered significant community support for her reforms, yet her dismissal plunged the district into chaos, prompting lawsuits and public outcry. If SOS truly prioritized students' welfare, why did they not intervene or speak out against this destabilizing decision?

Self-Interest Over Students

Critics argue that SOS's actions are less about protecting students and more about maintaining local power structures. Their opposition to state oversight seems rooted in preserving their own influence rather than addressing the systemic issues plaguing MSCS. Rep. Mark White's proposal, while controversial, seeks to stabilize the district through a management board composed of local experts—a stark contrast to SOS's vague calls for "conversations" and "realistic solutions".

The Bigger Picture

Memphis-Shelby County Schools have faced years of challenges, from underfunding to leadership turnover. While local control is ideal in principle, it has failed to deliver consistent results in this case. State intervention, modeled after similar efforts in Houston, aims to provide the oversight necessary to address these issues. Yet SOS continues to resist without offering concrete alternatives.

JustMyOpinion

"Save Our Students" presents itself as a grassroots movement fighting for Memphis children, but its actions suggest otherwise. By failing to stand up during critical moments like Dr. Feagins' firing and focusing instead on opposing state oversight, SOS reveals its true priorities: self-interest and political posturing. Memphis deserves leaders who will put students first—not those who seek the spotlight while education suffers.