As Memphis district considers future of virtual learning, superintendent says, ‘No one will force me to open schools’
Shelby County Schools Superintendent Joris Ray tours Winridge Elementary with Principal Todd Shaffer on August 31, 2020. Ray has kept buildings closed to students since March. (Ziggy Mack/Special To The Daily Memphian file)
Laura Faith Kebede
Laura Faith Kebede covers Memphis schools for Chalkbeat Tennessee. She is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism and most recently covered county government, schools and religion at the Richmond Times-Dispatch in Virginia.
The tension between the Memphis leader and state officials illustrates the differences in how Tennesseans are responding to school safety concerns related to the virus.
Related stories
Tennessee moves up teachers on priority list for COVID-19 vaccine
They’ll be able to get their shots during the same phase as Tennesseans ages 75 and above — and before those in the 65-74 age bracket.
Tennessee unveils $100M plan to improve reading of youngest students
Calling it an “exciting moment,” Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn on Monday unveiled Reading 360, an array of programs to train teachers on reading instruction and provide resources to school districts.
Suburban leaders advocate for ways to vaccinate teachers, residents
Suburban leaders want to make sure the vaccine is accessible to residents when it’s their turn.
Reading comments and joining the conversation are some of the many benefits of subscribing. Join the conversation by clicking the View Comments button below. Not a subscriber? Click here.
Our commenting policy can be viewed here.