The first meeting of the Memphis-Shelby County Schools oversight board was held by Governor Bill Lee and took place in Nashville on Thursday.
He stressed their dedication to overcoming political barriers to guarantee Memphis children receive a high-quality education, claiming that the current system and bureaucracy have failed Memphis children.
“Memphis is a globally important city that matters significantly, in one of the most important ways, for Tennessee,” Lee said. “We all are committed to these children. This is a moment in time. It is not the answer. It is a step forward.”
The new state board includes a number of people with backgrounds in the Memphis and Shelby County school districts, including former superintendent Dorsey Hopson, former school board member Billy Orgel, and local teacher Karen Vogelsang.
In addition to having extensive control over contracting and budgeting, the new nine-member board may be able to fire district leaders for any reason.
The Educational Oversight Board for MSCS holding its first meeting. They appear to have elected Billy Orgel as chair and are currently discussing their committee structure. pic.twitter.com/YEb8sHiySo
— Mick Wright (@mickwright) June 18, 2026
