News Summary
In Memphis, a new coalition called Save Our Students (SOS) has emerged in response to a proposed state takeover of local schools. Comprising elected officials, non-profit leaders, and community advocates, SOS aims to establish a community advisory board to maintain local control over education. As discussions around the takeover intensify, the coalition emphasizes the importance of engaging local voices to ensure education decisions reflect the community’s needs, moving the focus from politics to student achievements.
Memphis Community Band Together to Save Their Schools
A New Coalition Emerges
In Memphis, a spirited coalition named Save Our Students (SOS) has sprung into action, fueled by concerns over a proposed state takeover of the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS). This newly formed group is a diverse mix of elected officials, non-profit leaders, business minds, and faith leaders who are dedicated to keeping education decisions in the hands of the local community.
The Proposal for Local Control
At a recent press conference held outside the vibrant National Civil Rights Museum, one proactive member of SOS unveiled an exciting proposal for a community advisory board. This initiative seeks to counterbalance the legislation introduced by state Rep. Mark White, who has put forth plans for a state-run advisory board that could potentially strip power away from the current school board.
The advisory board proposed by SOS would not wield complete control but rather serve as a guiding hand. The goal is to ensure that local voices are heard loud and clear in the decision-making process, reinforcing the importance of keeping the community’s elected representatives in charge. Local control is viewed as an essential factor, as representatives truly understand the needs and dynamics of their unique communities.
Engaging the Community in Meaningful Dialogue
A notable part of the SOS coalition is the inclusion of Shelby County Commissioners, like Shante K Avant and Miska Clay Bibbs, both of whom have valuable experience as former MSCS school board members. They bring an essential perspective to the coalition, focusing on the crucial matters at hand: the children’s needs and their academic achievements.
The coalition members promote a conversation steered away from adult issues and redirect it towards what truly matters—improving education for the children of Memphis. It’s a sentiment that resonates with many in the community who believe that focusing on students rather than politics leads to better outcomes.
The Pushback Against the State Takeover
The discussion around the state takeover proposal has gained momentum, particularly following the contentious removal of ex-Superintendent Marie Feagins. There is a history of turbulence regarding hiring practices in the school board, which has led to calls for potential state intervention. However, many within the SOS coalition are skeptical about the effectiveness of such moves and cite the failures of the Achievement School District as evidence against state involvement in local education matters.
The proposed state takeover’s legislation, still in the works, is crafted similarly to laws that facilitated the state takeover of Houston Independent Schools in Texas. However, critics have expressed concerns that such a strategy may not yield the desired improvements Memphis students need.
Taking Action to Keep the Community Informed
As the coalition gears up for a robust opposition against the state takeover plans, they remain committed to amplifying community voices. This initiative is about ensuring the community’s perspective shapes the future of their schools.
To foster engagement and keep the public in the loop, the Shelby County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a committee meeting on March 5. This meeting will be accessible to the public either in person or online, encouraging all community members to express their thoughts and concerns regarding local education.
In essence, SOS is rallying the community around a shared vision: to keep education local and tailored specifically to the Memphis area. By coming together as a coalition, they aim to strengthen the education system in Shelby County and provide the best possible future for their students. It’s a clear message that the community cares deeply about the direction of their schools and stands united in their mission to save their students.
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Additional Resources
- Local Memphis News
- The Commercial Appeal
- Local Memphis – Video
- Daily Memphian
- Action News 5
- Wikipedia: Memphis-Shelby County Schools
- Google Search: Memphis educational news
- Google Scholar: Memphis school takeover
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis education
- Google News: Memphis schools
