Shelby County board refers proposed termination of superintendent to committee after public outcry

The Shelby County Board of Education voted 5–4 on Dec. 17, 2024 to refer to a board committee for further review a resolution that would have terminated Memphis-Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Marie Fagan’s employment, postponing a final decision until the board’s January meeting.

Board Chair Joyce D. Coleman introduced a resolution alleging professional misconduct and breaches of the superintendent’s contract and asked the board to consider immediate termination. Coleman said the district had "missed deadlines and incomplete paperwork" tied to federal grant funds and alleged an unapproved $45,000 donation and an unverifiable overtime claim. "I understand the gravity of what I am about to recommend," Coleman said while laying out the resolution.

Why it matters: The proposed termination prompted nearly an hour-and-a-half of public comment and intense debate among board members. About 57 people signed up to speak; dozens urged the board not to remove Dr. Fagan, saying she had brought visible changes in less than a year and that stability was critical for students and staff. Several speakers and board members also warned that a termination could cost the district hundreds of thousands of dollars in severance and lead to state intervention.

Board action and votes

- A motion to refer the resolution to a committee of the full board and return findings at the January business meeting passed 5–4. Commissioners voting yes:…