The Shelby County Schools Superintendent lawsuit centers on the legal battle involving former Memphis-Shelby County Schools Superintendent Marie Feagins. Feagins was terminated by the Shelby County School Board in January 2025 after less than a year on the job, prompting her to file a lawsuit alleging the board violated Tennessee’s Open Meetings Act and engaged in defamation and wrongful termination.
Background of the Lawsuit
Marie Feagins was dismissed in a 6-3 vote by the Shelby County School Board amid allegations of professional misconduct and poor leadership. However, Feagins denied the accusations and argued that the board conducted secret meetings in the fall of 2024 to orchestrate her ouster without public transparency, violating state law.
Following her termination, Feagins filed a lawsuit against the school board in February 2025 seeking reinstatement, back pay totaling nearly $500,000, and additional benefits. She contends that her firing was unlawful and that the board members circumvented legal requirements for public decision-making.
Allegations and Legal Claims
- Violation of Tennessee Open Meetings Act: Feagins alleges that board members held private meetings and discussions about her termination, which should have been conducted publicly according to the Open Meetings Act. She claims these behind-the-scenes actions deprived the public of lawful oversight.
- Defamation: An amended complaint includes allegations that board member Towanna Murphy spread “reckless and wild” rumors accusing Feagins of wrongdoing such as stealing a car and forgery, damaging her reputation and future employment prospects.
- Wrongful Termination: Feagins asserts that the termination lacked just cause and procedural fairness, as she never received a formal performance evaluation before her firing.
Proceedings and Court Decisions
In August 2025, a Shelby County judge denied Feagins’ immediate reinstatement request, citing potential disruption to the school system amid ongoing litigation. Nonetheless, the lawsuit remains active, with hearings and motions ongoing.
During court testimonies, the judge excluded some of Feagins’ hearsay evidence describing private conversations about her termination. The school board’s legal counsel argued that private discussions about the superintendent’s performance do not necessarily violate open meetings laws if no official decision is made, contesting Feagins’ claims.
Community and Political Reactions
The lawsuit has drawn significant community attention, with many teachers, parents, and local officials expressing support for Feagins and advocating for transparent governance. Advocates emphasize the importance of open government and accountability in educational leadership.
The case highlights broader concerns about governance practices in public school districts and the legal protections for public officials facing political conflicts.
Current Status and Outlook
Additional hearings have not been scheduled as of late August 2025, with the court continuing to review evidence and legal arguments. Feagins pursues claims for defamation alongside wrongful termination and seeks remedy for lost wages and damage to professional reputation.
The case is considered pivotal for establishing boundaries between board member privacy, open meetings laws, and accountability in public education management.
Conclusion
The Shelby County Schools Superintendent lawsuit exemplifies the complex interplay between educational governance, legal rights, and public transparency. It raises crucial questions about lawful conduct of school boards and protections for superintendents.
Residents and public officials watch closely as the case unfolds, understanding its potential impact on future school district operations and leadership practices.
