Fayette County Begins Superintendent Search
The district aims to hire a new permanent leader by July 2027 with feedback from local families and staff.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Administration
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The Fayette County Board of Education has launched its search for a new superintendent following the August 2026 retirement of Demetrus Liggins. The district is currently led by interim superintendent Bill Bradford, who has stated his intent to apply for the permanent role.
Why it matters
Selecting a permanent leader is a critical step in stabilizing district leadership and shaping long-term policies for Lexington students and staff. This search follows the departure of Liggins, who retired after an investigation into allegations regarding fake emails sent to a state legislator.
The district aims to appoint a new permanent superintendent by the July 1, 2027, deadline. This process follows the 2021 hiring of former superintendent Demetrus Liggins.
The players
Fayette County Board of Education
The local governing body responsible for setting policy and overseeing the selection of district leadership.
Demetrus Liggins
The former superintendent who led the district from 2021 until his retirement in August 2026.
Bill Bradford
The current interim superintendent overseeing district operations while the search for a permanent successor is underway.
Kentucky School Boards Association
A state organization that provides training and resources for local boards of education.
Adrielle Camuel
A state representative who was involved in an investigation concerning fake emails.
The details
The search committee is currently building a leadership profile by gathering feedback from local families, staff, and students. Once the profile is complete, the committee will vet applicants, conduct formal interviews, and host public forums with the final candidates to ensure community input before a final decision is reached.
Timeline
2021: Demetrus Liggins was hired as superintendent.
August 2026: Demetrus Liggins retired from the district.
October 20, 2026: Search committee training session held at the Central Office.
July 1, 2027: Target deadline for selecting the new permanent superintendent.
The Home Front
The search process aligns with formal protocols established by the Kentucky School Boards Association to guide district leadership transitions. This move aims to restore stability to the Fayette County district following a high-profile administrative vacancy.
Families can participate in the transition by sharing feedback for the superintendent profile to ensure district priorities align with their needs. Monitor district communications for dates on upcoming public forums featuring the superintendent finalists.
The takeaway
The district is working toward a July 1, 2027, deadline to confirm a permanent superintendent. Residents should watch for upcoming public engagement opportunities to voice their preferences for the next school leader.
Further reading
You can find more background on local school governance in the Lexington Administration section.
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