Written by: JR Robinson

The controversy surrounding Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) and the proposed state intervention has ignited a firestorm of debate, revealing deep-seated issues within the district's governance and the community's response. At the heart of this contentious issue lies the proposed state intervention in MSCS, which has been met with both support and fierce opposition.

The current situation can be traced back to the controversial termination of Dr. Marie Feagins. This decision by the MSCS board has been widely criticized and is seen as the spark that ignited the current crisis. Many argue that had Dr. Feagins not been wrongfully terminated, the district would not be facing the prospect of state intervention.

The Save Our Students (SOS) Facade

The "Save Our Students" coalition, led by figures like Ron Redwing and Cardell Orrin, presents itself as a defender of local control. However, their actions—or lack thereof—speak louder than their words. As I, JR Robinson, pointed out, "Cardell Orrin has been messaging me this week on how much I don't understand about Dr. Marie N. Feagins and how bad a takeover would be. Yet, in all his comments about this, he has said nothing about a solution. Of all these people saying Dr. Marie N. Feagins is bad, not a single one can say the school board is good or why the state takeover would be bad. The Save Our Children movement should be called Save Our Corruption. No solutions at all other than to keep the corruption. 'Save Our Students' presents itself as a grassroots movement fighting for Memphis children, but its actions suggest otherwise."

This observation aligns with the broader critique of SOS:

• Selective Outrage: SOS was notably silent during Dr. Feagins' controversial termination, which was a pivotal moment of instability for MSCS.
• Lack of Concrete Solutions: While opposing state intervention, SOS has failed to propose viable alternatives to address MSCS's systemic issues.
• Limited Community Support: Despite their claims of representing community interests, SOS's social media presence suggests minimal grassroots backing.

Boyd Ardnas astutely notes, "One of the most difficult task is getting our folks, to READ, STUDY, RESEARCH AND CONNECT, before making major decisions."

April Waltrip Jeffries asserts, "LOCAL is corrupt. Sorry, but it’s the truth. Local has proven time and time again they aren’t in it for anyone but themselves."

The Complexity of Local Control

While local control is often touted as ideal, the MSCS case demonstrates its potential pitfalls. As Boyd Ardnas notes, "One of the most difficult task is getting our folks, to READ, STUDY, RESEARCH AND CONNECT, before making major decisions". This lack of informed engagement has allowed for decisions that may not serve students' best interests. Boyd Ardnas stated, "Those of us who have been doing this work for decades know things that the broader community does not know and, in some instances, does not understand. Does his statement imply that all of the community, including educators who are left out of the equation and remain voiceless, are numskulled to absorbing what has been produced, by this district's lack of constant transparency?"

The State Intervention Proposal: Beyond the "Takeover" Narrative

Danielle Inez provides crucial insight into the proposed legislation, emphasizing that the word "takeover" never appears in the bill. Instead, the focus is on accountability, assessment, and potentially appointing a board of managers. This nuance is often lost in the heated rhetoric surrounding the issue. Danielle Inez reports learning "that many leaders being asked to publicly resist the proposed state law haven’t actually been encouraged to read it. Instead, a few have received images of the text and high-level summaries... usually reduced to 30-second talking points and historical comparisons to political actions taken in other cities, under different circumstances, and/or by different leaders."

Key aspects of the proposed legislation include:

• Allowing state intervention based on specific performance criteria
• Appointing a board of managers for a limited period (4-6 years)
• Providing mechanisms for direct charter school approvals and conversions

The Need for Accountability and Solutions

DrMel Harper argues, "A state takeover does not exclude parents or the community—it can actually increase accountability for everyone involved, including parents. Right now, there is little to no accountability in place. A state-led model, like what we’re seeing in Houston, TX, can provide the structure and oversight necessary to turn things around.

This isn’t about removing parents or community voices—it’s about ensuring that everyone is held accountable and that students receive the education they deserve.”

"People feel they are sacrificing their children to a chronically broken system. Those who can afford it, will send their children to other schools. Those who cannot afford it, should have another choice. This is why vouchers look so enticing. At least they can take the money that is designated for their child and go to a school of their choice. Something better. Those who oppose takeover and school vouchers, aren’t giving us any alternatives. We haven’t heard what you offer instead. Parents deserve better than what is currently being offered!"

Amber Huett-Garcia states: "My position on an MSCS takeover, on the record in January, has not changed. I didn’t agree with my 6 colleagues on their personnel decision. I understand the community’s rage. I truly do. But, I do not support the takeover of MSCS, including the charter approval authority or conversion of public schools to charters component….and no recourse for accountability? It’s a no for me."

Tikeila J. Rucker advocates that "BIG Memphis! There are alternatives to maintain local control and address elected officials. There is a recall and election cycle bill that has been introduced. And there is an audit being conducted."

Moving Forward: A Balanced Approach

To truly serve the students of Memphis and Shelby County, we must:

1. Prioritize Transparency: Encourage all stakeholders to read and understand the proposed legislation, rather than relying on talking points.
2. Demand Concrete Solutions: Push organizations like SOS to offer specific, actionable plans for improving MSCS, not just opposition to change.
3. Consider Alternative Accountability Measures: Explore options like the recall and election cycle bill introduced by Representative G.A. Hardaway, which could provide local accountability without state intervention.
4. Focus on Student Outcomes: As Tamarques Porter reminds us, "Education STARTS AT HOME FIRST". Any solution must involve increased parental and community engagement.

My closing thoughts are that the MSCS controversy is not a simple battle between local control and state intervention. It's a complex issue that requires nuanced understanding, transparent communication, and a genuine commitment to improving educational outcomes for Memphis and Shelby County students. As this debate continues, it's crucial to look beyond slogans and self-interest, focusing instead on concrete solutions that will truly save our students.