The Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) confirmed that its Deputy Superintendent for Strategic Operations and Finance, Dr. John Barker, was placed on paid administrative leave due to an “employee complaint.”
The school corporation broke the news hours after FOX13 Memphis online reported that Dr. Barker was escorted off campus on Thursday.
Memphis-Shelby County Schools said in a statement to employees, “This evening, you may hear reports regarding Dr. John Barker, Deputy Superintendent of Strategic Operations for Memphis-Shelby County Schools. In MSCS, we have processes in place to ensure the integrity of all district functions. Dr. Barker has been placed on paid administrative leave due to an employee complaint and pending review.”
MSCS continued, saying, “The District investigates all complaints lodged against employees and cannot comment further about an ongoing investigation. Until the investigation is resolved, MSCS Chief of Staff, Patrice Williams Thomas, will provide continued leadership of the operational functions. We certainly regret any disruption this news may cause. While the review is underway, I hope that you will join me in remaining focused on our main goal which is expanding opportunities and academic gains for students.”
Dr. Barker was tapped to lead the school district after its former superintendent, Dr. Joris Ray, was investigated for allegations involving extramarital affairs with employees of the school district.
Dr. Joris Ray, after holding the position of superintendent for 25 years, resigned in August, as previously reported by The Tennessee Star. Part of the agreement related to Ray’s resignation was the termination of the school district’s investigation into his conduct.
Dr. Ray said in a statement, in part, “It is with a heavy heart that I submit a formal resignation from my position as superintendent after coming to a mutual agreement with the School Board. Please accept my sincerest gratitude for your abiding support.”
I can’t begin to quantify the many, many small but powerful acts of devotion and commitment shown by my cabinet, administrators, instructional leaders, principals, teachers, and support staff.
THANK YOU for believing in my leadership. THANK YOU for believing in our students. pic.twitter.com/i1o6RN0C8D
— Dr. Joris M. Ray (@SCSSuptRay) August 24, 2022
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network.
Photo “John Barker” by John Richard Barker.
