Shelby County Commission

The Memphis-Shelby County school board approved a $1.7 billion budget ahead of an impending state takeover. The state oversight board, appointed by top Republican leaders, will control final budget decisions for four years, but its ability to alter the proposed budget remains unclear. The budget includes teacher bonuses, school repairs, and cuts to pandemic-era support positions.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed legislation granting political appointees control over Memphis-Shelby County Schools through a nine-person oversight board. The board, appointed by top state Republicans, will oversee academic challenges, budgets, and district operations, reducing local control. Critics argue the move undermines Memphis' Democratic-leaning community and ignores socioeconomic factors affecting school performance.

Memphis-Shelby County Schools propose a $1.7 billion 2026-27 budget, a reduction from $1.9 billion, as a state-appointed board prepares to assume financial control. The budget faces approval by the Shelby County Commission, but a state takeover awaiting Gov. Lee’s signature could delay implementation. Enrollment declines and funding tied to attendance rates are key concerns, alongside proposed teacher bonuses and school closures to address financial pressures.