MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Shelby County Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins publicly talked about transitioning into her new rule on Tuesday, April 9.
This comes just one week before MSCS students are set to take the highly anticipated TCAP.
“Right now, we are hopeful, we are excited about what she represents,” education advocate Rachael Spriggs said.
Communications and improvement are the expectations parents and education advocates have for the newly appointed superintendent as she heads into her second week with the district.
Feagins mentioned frustrations families have brought up as a reason she wants students as part of her transition team.
“Anytime a student or parents shares that they haven’t been served well or there’s a general breakdown in communication or relationships, those are the things that are disheartening for me because those are the things that we can get right,” Feagins said.
TCAP is right around the corner; however, Spriggs said she doesn’t believe the weight of this one falls on Feagins.
“What happens on TCAP this year is not really a direct reflection of her work,” Spriggs said. “I think that after we get through building relationships, after we get through high-fiving students, high-fiving teachers, we have to have an academic plan that will specifically address the lack of academic achievement in this district.”
Feagins said students will play a role not only in how academic plans are structured, but also on policies.
“We have a lot of opportunities to dig into some policy reviews, and so I want to know how that’s impacting our kids. And what better people to give that perspective than the students themselves?” Feagins said.
Superintendent Feagins said she’s working to be as transparent with families and the public as possible. She plans to hold regular meetings providing updates on academic, policy and hiring improvements.