The Tri-State Defender will convene a panel of educators and policy leaders next week for a community discussion on one of the most consequential periods in Memphis public school history.
The TSD in the Community Education Forum is set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, at Alpha Memphis Education Foundation, 4122 Barton Drive. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required at www.tri-statedefender.com/community.
The forum comes as Memphis-Shelby County Schools stands at an unprecedented crossroads. Tennessee Republicans passed a measure in April giving a nine-person, politically appointed oversight board sweeping authority over the locally elected school board and the state’s largest school district, which serves more than 100,000 students. Gov. Bill Lee signed SB714 into law on May 22, 2026.
The state’s intervention did not come without a fight. The Shelby County Commission voted to set aside $200,000 for a lawsuit challenging the takeover, and the Memphis Shelby County Schools board voted to hire a lawyer for the same purpose. A lawsuit has been filed in federal court in an attempt to stop the new oversight board, arguing it strips power from elected representatives.
Local reactions have been mixed. Supporters argue the state-appointed board will bring additional expertise and accountability, while critics contend it weakens local control and the authority of elected officials.
Some elected board members have signaled a willingness to work with the new body. “We don’t have a choice,” said MSCS board member Towanna Murphy. “And, from the picks, they have been board members before, so they know the district. They know how the district needs to move. And I think that it will be helpful for us.”
Against this backdrop, the Tri-State Defender is hosting the forum to bring together community members, educators, and civic and educational nonprofit leaders to share opinions and insights.
“Education is one of the most important issues shaping the future of Memphis and Shelby County, impacting not only our students, but also our workforce, economy and quality of life,” said Stephanie R. Jones, editor of the Tri-State Defender. “Through this forum, we are providing a platform for parents, educators, policymakers and community members to engage in meaningful dialogue about the opportunities and challenges facing public education.”
Forum panelists have deep roots in Memphis
Tomeka Hart Wigginton, president and CEO of United Way of the Mid-South, built her career in education, public policy and philanthropy management, including service on the Memphis Shelby County Schools board.
Dr. Derek King, who has a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Mississippi, is the principal of Craigmont High School.
Cardell Orrin, executive director of Stand for Children Tennessee, grew up attending school board meetings with an activist mother. His father helped organize the student walkouts that led to the 1971 election of the first African American school board member in Memphis. He has led Stand for Children Tennessee since 2014.
Sable Otey, a former educator who holds a master’s degree in education, is a member of the Memphis Shelby County Schools board.
Lori Spicer Robertson, a Memphis civic leader and communications executive whose career spans nonprofit leadership, corporate diversity and community engagement, will serve as panel moderator.
The forum is sponsored by the Tri-State Defender, Google and the Alpha Memphis Education Foundation.
