Memphis-Shelby County School Superintendent Engages Local Youth in Innovative Barbershop Sessions

MSCS Superintendent Initiates Insightful Barbershop Talk with Young Men

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Memphis-Shelby County School Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins took an extraordinary step in reaching out to young men in the community by hosting a ‘Barbershop Talk’ session. The innovative setting created a comfortable space for dialogue, enabling young leaders to voice their concerns, thoughts, and experiences. This unique initiative established a significant breakthrough in developing a crucial sense of community among young men.

Barber Welcomes the Initiative

One of the barbers, Warren Tripplett, appreciated Dr. Feagin’s initiative while handling his regular clientele at the shop. The barber expressed the need for such sessions, noting that engaging with authorities can help young men feel heard and understand that their community genuinely cares for them. Tripplett also underscored the importance of such initiatives, advocating for parents to maintain open minds and work collaboratively with school officials to ensure a fruitful educational year.

Dr. Feagin’s Commitment towards Community Involvement

As a new superintendent of the district, Dr. Feagins has been proactive in bridging the gap between the school system and the community. Her approach includes an open dialogue with community members about their needs and concerns. The barbershop talk was a deliberate step towards “leaning in and turning an ear” to the life experiences of young men. By putting their narratives at the forefront and acting upon their call, she aims to bring about an effective, long-term change in the school and community culture.

Revamp in District Operations

On top of her community-building efforts, Dr. Feagins has started restructuring how the district operates, understanding that change, while difficult, ultimately brings about progress. “Change is hard, change is uncomfortable, but most folks can embrace that changes are necessary,” Dr. Feagins remarked. By renaming the process as improvement and elevation, the sting of change is eased, turning it into a commitment to better practices and producing favorable outcomes.

Fostering Young Leadership

Emphasizing on more such sessions, Dr. Feagins expressed her intent to harness the potential of the young leaders by helping them articulate and channelize their aspirations. By setting a high-standard educational framework, she insists on empowering an entire generation who can significantly impact society and the world at large.

Dr. Feagins looks forward to welcoming more young men in her upcoming session of Barbershop Talks, scheduled for June 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Sheffield Career & Tech Center (CTC) on 4350 Chuck Avenue.