Former board member Tom Jones cited “personal reasons” as the motivation behind his decision to exit the post.
The resignation comes a month after Jones apologized publicly for a statement he made during a budget meeting – in which he said he didn’t want district officials “monkeying around” with the budget. A member of the district’s equity council committee expressed concern, calling it a “racial microaggression.”
In response, Jones said at a board meeting: "Four months ago, during the preliminary budget discussions, I used a word or phrase that, while otherwise harmless in the context of a public board meeting, was very inappropriate and may have been hurtful to some members of our community. I take responsibility for and very much regret having misspoken in this way. Never has it been my intention to demean or degrade any persons, and while I take responsibility for my misstatement, it was in no way a racially-inspired act."
Superintendent Demetrus Liggins, who is Black, praised Jones’ commitment to the board’s work following a vote to accept his resignation Monday.
"I know his service has really showcased his enduring commitment to education and his belief that every single student in Fayette County can and deserves the best education possible," he said.
Jones did not offer further comment on his choice to step down.
The board now has 60 days to select Jones’ replacement.
