Fayette County Schools Begins Superintendent Search
The district is vetting candidates to fill the permanent leadership role by next summer.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Administration
Live Poll
Do you trust your local school board to select a superintendent who prioritizes student success?
The Fayette County Board of Education has officially launched its search for a new superintendent. This recruitment effort follows the retirement of former leader Demetrus Liggins in August 2026.
Why it matters
The board is looking to stabilize district leadership as interim superintendent Bill Bradford prepares to compete for the permanent position. This transition aims to address the vacancy created after Liggins departed amid an investigation into allegations regarding fake emails.
The district aims to appoint a new superintendent by the July 1, 2027, deadline. The selection process involves a search committee and public forums to replace the position held by Liggins since 2021.
The players
Demetrus Liggins
He is the former superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools who served from 2021 until his retirement in August 2026.
Bill Bradford
He currently serves as the interim superintendent of the district and intends to apply for the permanent role.
Adrielle Camuel
She is a state Representative who was the subject of an investigation regarding fake emails found at her office.
Kentucky School Boards Association
This organization provides training, advocacy, and resources to school board members across the state.
The details
The search committee is currently building a superintendent profile by soliciting feedback from the local community, students, and staff. The selection process will include vetting applications, conducting interviews, and hosting public forums with finalists to ensure a transparent transition for the Lexington area.
Timeline
Demetrus Liggins began his term as superintendent in 2021.
Demetrus Liggins retired from the district in August 2026.
The search committee held training at the Central Office on October 20, 2026.
The board aims to finalize the new superintendent selection by July 1, 2027.
Culture Shift
The district's transition process follows established Kentucky open meetings and public records transparency requirements. This approach marks a shift toward restoring community trust through formalized, public-facing search procedures.
Residents and parents can participate in the superintendent search by providing input during upcoming community forums. This feedback will help shape the professional profile used by the board to evaluate candidates for the district's top administrative position.
The takeaway
The search process represents a critical opportunity for the community to define the future of the local school system. Families should watch for upcoming public forum schedules to ensure their feedback reaches the search committee.
Further reading
For more information on school district oversight, visit the Lexington Administration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Lexington Herald Leader.
Live Poll
Do you trust your local school board to select a superintendent who prioritizes student success?
