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FCPS Interim Superintendent garners support from board, parents

Karyn Czar/WUKY

On Wednesday night, the Fayette County School Board placed Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins on paid administrative leave. Following the decision, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Bill Bradford was immediately named acting superintendent.

Bradford, who has worked in education for 23-years, told us he was humbled by the interim position and laid out his next steps.

"I certainly plan to take the time to consult with each individual Board of Education member to isolate their interest and their goals to determine how I can activate plans to accomplish those," Bradford said. "I will spend a considerable amount of time with district leadership and school principals to verify that we have no interruption in services and that the continuation of services and support of our student needs are fully met."

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Bradford was named assistant superintendent in July 2024 and currently supervises the Office of School Leadership & Learning Support, overseeing the departments of Athletics, Grant Partnerships, School-Based Decision-Making Councils, and Magnet School Assistance Programs.

Those who attended Wednesday's meeting, like Laura Hartke, applauded the choice.

"I'm sad that it came to this, but I'm relieved for the community whose been crying out for change and knowing that something was wrong," said Harke. "I think Bill Bradford can lead the district. I think he's prepared. I think we're glad to see some accountability."

Bradford is bilingual, having graduated with a bachelor's degree in Spanish Language and Literature from Transylvania University.

Bradford's experience in education:

Assistant Superintendent | Fayette County Public Schools | 2024–Present

  • Oversees district leadership initiatives and supports system-wide operations.
  • Provides guidance to school leaders and district administrators.
  • Helps implement strategic priorities to improve student outcomes and organizational effectiveness.

Chief School Leadership Officer | Fayette County Public Schools | 2022–2024

  • Coordinated the district's strategic planning process.
  • Led the rezoning of middle school attendance areas.
  • Oversaw efforts related to the naming of Mary E. Britton Middle School.
  • Directed evaluations of faculty and staff engagement to inform district decision-making.
  • Supported principals and school leaders in advancing district goals.

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning | Fort Thomas Independent Schools | Dates Not Specified

  • Guided curriculum and instructional initiatives across the district.
  • Supported professional development and instructional improvement efforts.
  • Worked with school leaders to enhance teaching and learning practices.

Principal | River Ridge Elementary School | 2015–Date Not Specified

  • Managed day-to-day school operations and instructional leadership.
  • Fostered a positive learning environment for students and staff.
  • Collaborated with teachers and families to promote student success.

Assistant Superintendent | Covington Independent Schools | Date Not Specified–2015

  • Assisted in overseeing district operations and educational programming.
  • Supported strategic initiatives and administrative functions.
  • Worked closely with school leaders to improve educational outcomes.

Principal | Sixth District Elementary School, Covington | 2010–Date Not Specified

  • Led school operations, staff development and student achievement initiatives.
  • Built relationships with students, families and the community.
  • Implemented programs designed to support academic success.

K-12 Instructional Support Specialist | Fayette County Public Schools | Date Not Specified–2010

  • Provided instructional support and guidance to educators across grade levels.
  • Assisted with curriculum implementation and teacher development.
  • Helped strengthen instructional practices throughout the district.

Spanish Teacher | Lafayette High School | Early Career

  • Taught Spanish language courses to high school students.
  • Developed engaging lesson plans and assessments.
Karyn Czar has been a journalist with WUKY since 2013 and is currently the Assistant News Director. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky and brings more than 30 years of broadcast experience to NPR. Karyn's work has been recognized with numerous Associated Press, Kentucky Broadcaster Association, Public Media Journalist, and Edward R. Murrow awards throughout her career.