Embattled Memphis Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins is standing her ground.
In a written response to the Memphis-Shelby County School Board released Monday night, Feagins emphatically declared, “I will not resign,” as she pushed back against allegations of financial mismanagement, unapproved transactions, and fostering a toxic work environment.
The email, addressed to Board Chair Joyce Dorse Coleman and dated January 6, 2025, comes weeks after the board narrowly voted to refer the matter to committee. Feagins, who faces a potential termination hearing later this month, called the accusations “meritless” and “politically motivated.”
During the December 17 meeting, tensions ran high as board members debated Feagins’ future amid vocal support from community members who credited her with bringing bold, much-needed leadership to the district. However, critics, including several board members, pointed to claims of mismanagement and detrimental workplace culture.
Winter break for students didn’t slow the controversy down as Shelby County Commissioner Amber Mills indicated she would call for a vote of “no confidence” in the School Board, and hinted at pulling funding for a new school in Frayser.
A final vote on Feagins’ future is set for Jan. 14.
In her letter, Feagins accused certain board members of engaging in “unwarranted attacks on my integrity” and failing to provide specific evidence to support the claims. “I have not, under any circumstances, misled the Board or mismanaged district funds,” she wrote. “The two transactions at issue adhered to all applicable laws and policies.”
Feagins also took aim at what she described as a “national embarrassment” caused by the public airing of unsubstantiated allegations. Nevertheless, she maintained her focus on her mission.
“I remain committed to finishing the job I was hired to do,” Feagins wrote.
A response from the School Board is expected on Tuesday.
Below is the full text of Dr. Feagins’ response, as submitted to the Board of Education.
