MEMPHIS, Tenn. - The unified board of the Memphis and Shelby County schools has tapped interim superintendent Dorsey Hopson to stay in the position permanently.

The Commercial Appeal reports the Shelby County Board of Education voted Tuesday to end its partnership with a national search firm.

Board member David Pickler noted the Hopson's performance thus far with the newly unified school district and the continuing transitions when he suggested the moved.

Board Member David Reaves said Hopson doesn't fit the mold of educator-turned-administrator, but "knows the lay of the land" and understands the community.

Hopson is the former general counsel of the Memphis City Schools.