Memphis-Shelby County Schools Board of Education has released the updated job posting for the District's next superintendent. The Board revised the job description and scoring rubric following retreats facilitated by Tomeka Hart Wigginton and discussions with search firm Hazard, Young, Attea, and Associates (HYA).
The revised description better reflects the attributes the Board seeks in its future district leader. The Board aims to appoint a "dynamic, visionary, and adaptable leader" who will accelerate ongoing operational reforms and academic gains.
"Our motto for the 2023-24 school year is 'see the future,' and we are determined to find a visionary with the experience to help us innovate and elevate," said search Co-chair Joyce Dorse Coleman. "Our babies, our students, deserve a top-notch candidate who can take Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) to new heights."
MSCS is Tennessee's largest public school district and the 25th largest nationally. With 110,000 students and 14,000 employees, including 6,000 educators, it ranks as the second-largest employer in the metro area. Recently, the District received the Certificate of Excellence in financial reporting from the Association of School Business Officials International. Additionally, MSCS students have demonstrated consecutive improvements on the TCAP, the state's annual standardized test. Despite this progress, proficiency rates still lag behind the state average, and bridging the achievement gap will require larger leaps forward.
In July, the Board approved the 2023-24 budget, making academic investments to expand advanced course offerings and intervention support. In addition, strategic initiatives spearheaded by Interim Superintendent Toni Williams will enhance experiential learning opportunities this year, including more field trips, apprenticeships, and hands-on labs for students.
Williams is leading the District during this transition period but will not be a contender for the permanent role. Her reform-focused efforts will provide a solid foundation for the incoming superintendent.
HYA is accepting applications throughout the Fall, with candidate interviews scheduled for Winter. While the extended search will cost an additional $19,000, HYA President Max McGee noted that the revised timeline is expected to attract an impressive pool of candidates. Late Fall, after the flurry of back-to-school activities settles, is the peak application season.
Search Co-chair Stephanie Love said she hopes to see applicants who are community-centered.
"Schools are community hubs, and a strong school district needs a strong community advocate who can build partnerships. If you are a local, national, or even international leader passionate about driving results and engaging the community, apply today. Our 110,000 students are waiting to welcome you."
To see the full job description, click here.