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Fayette school board renews Superintendent Liggins' contract

Josh James
/
WUKY

The Fayette County School Board renewed Superintendent Demetrus Liggins' contract during their Monday meeting. The 3-2 decision came amid a push to oust the school leader.

Following the vote, a large, upbeat crowd spilled into the hallway from the boardroom and overflow area — a testament to interest in the discussion surrounding Liggins' leadership as competing petitions circulated in the community.

During public comment, about a dozen speakers — representing principals, volunteers, members, and former members of the district's Equity Council, and others — gave Liggins high marks for improving student scores, narrowing achievement gaps, and fostering inclusion. Four people rose to speak against renewing the contract, arguing dollars are being misspent and students are being shortchanged.

"Cassidy (Elementary School) currently doesn't have an arts program at all, and it could easily be funded by diverting any of these funds. If you wanna renew his contract, slash his pay and redivert the money to the students," one speaker argued.

None of the speakers brought up the lengthy string of snow and NTI days following the recent winter storms.

"He has worked to close opportunity gaps, especially in our building, ensure resources are allocated where they are most needed, and elevated the quality of education across all schools," another said, tearing up.

The praise continued, with another supporter saying Liggins' "integrity, dedication, and passion for education shine through in every decision he makes, always putting the needs of our students and schools at the forefront."

The conversation on the board was relatively brief with one new member, the First District's Monica Mundy recommending the panel press pause on the decision and allow for more discussion and public input.

Ultimately, the board did not agree, opting to renew Liggins' contract at the same base salary of over $323,000 a year for another 4 years. Board Chair Tyler Murphy capped off the discussion with a passionate defense of the sitting superintendent, adding the turnout among school system employees "speaks volumes."

"If you know anything about education, all you need to know about tonight is that the men and women who he is responsible for leading on a daily basis showed up here and stood in solidarity with their leader," he said, to applause.

The new contract runs through June 30, 2029.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.