The Memphis-Shelby County Schools Board of Education is thrilled to share an update on the ongoing search for the district's next Superintendent. The search, led by Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates (HYA), has been making strides, with enthusiastic participation and a promising pool of candidates.

Currently, the dedicated team at HYA is conducting interviews with a strong cohort of 21 applicants. One noteworthy aspect of this search is the impressive geographical reach. Candidates hailing from seven states have thrown their hats into the ring, illustrating the widespread interest in becoming the next MSCS Superintendent.

"It's a nice national pool with strong local interest as well," said Max McGee, President of HYA. "We're really pleased with the enthusiastic response. Memphis is an attractive district to top leaders.”

According to McGee, 20 to 25 candidates is standard for their national searches. The number of applicants for the MSCS superintendent position is a testament to the attractiveness of the Memphis school system. 

McGee added, “I am especially impressed with the breadth and depth of the applicant pool for the MSCS Superintendent Search.”

The process has been marked by thoroughness, with each applicant scheduled to receive a video-conference interview with HYA. Furthermore, McGee himself has been actively involved in every interview.

“We have asked HYA to ensure that candidates are rigorously assessed to find the best fit for MSCS,” said Board Member and Search Co-Chair Stephanie Love.

The largest school district in Tennessee, MSCS services approximately 110,000 students and 14,000 employees. The district boasts robust programs in vocational and technical education, advanced courses, and hands-on learning, including a new $3 million investment in field trips for every student. Through innovation, data analysis, and social-emotional supports, MSCS educators are working to close the achievement gap. 

“Our next superintendent must not only navigate the present but also help our district and our students see the future,” said Board Member and Search Co-Chair Joyce Dorse-Coleman. “He or she will have to steer us through challenging waters and unchartered possibilities to reach a brighter tomorrow.” 

With the impressive pool of candidates, a comprehensive interview process, and the ongoing support of HYA, the

 selection of the next superintendent remains an exciting journey. In December, HYA will present 5 to 8 finalists to the Board. The date of the Finalists Announcement is contingent upon the completion of HYA interviews and reference checks. Then, the Board will work with the finalists to schedule interviews. The next Superintendent will start by July 1, 2024.

School Board Chair Althea Greene likened the search process to selecting a conductor or choir director.  

"Memphis is the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll, the Home of the Blues, and the Heart of Gospel,” said Greene, “and the Board is excited to find a soulful leader who will bring this city together in harmony.