Judge clears way for state takeover board to take control of Memphis schools

A federal judge, Waverly Crenshaw, has lifted the temporary hold he put on the state's takeover of Memphis-Shelby County Schools in late June. The order came on a Thursday, after more than three months of legal delays. It lets the appointed Education Oversight Board begin directing the district.

According to the article, the board can now override most major district decisions, including approving the yearly budget and closing schools. It also has authority to choose a new superintendent and to rework what and how students are taught. Board Chair Billy Orgel said the group is ready to start and called for teamwork from educators, parents, students and the community. At a meeting the previous week, the board fast-tracked key policies, though members argued over whether it was proper to adopt materials from consulting firm MGT prepared during the pause. Orgel said local philanthropists paid for that work, which he argued made it legal. Members did not agree on where or when to meet next.

The district's lawsuit against the takeover continues, and both sides must present evidence. Last Tuesday, district leaders filed an amended complaint alleging the state is singling out a mostly Black student body because of race and that the takeover diverts money to board salaries. A separate chancery court suit is also pending. District board chair Tamarques Porter said he disagrees with the ruling.