MSCS interim supt. explains plan behind restructure

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Interim Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond joined Action News 5’s A Better Memphis to discuss the restructuring taking place this year.

MSCS announced last week that it is introducing regional superintendents.

The district will be divided into five regions: Northwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast and a region made up of the priority schools.

On “A Better Memphis” earlier Wednesday, Richmond said each regional superintendent will report to him.

The goal is to improve management and connect communities more closely with school leaders.

Richmond added that the restructuring is also intended to stop a state takeover of MSCS.

“I hope legislators, as well as Representative [Mark] White and the broader community, know that with Dr. Richmond at the helm and the team he has in place, the district is in good hands,” Richmond said.

Critics of the regional superintendent plan worry it makes the district top-heavy at a time when more teachers are desperately needed in the classroom.

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