Building Pathways for Every Student to Succeed
Dr. Demetrus Liggins, the 2026 Kentucky Superintendent of the Year, is an accomplished educational leader with 25 years of experience in teaching and school leadership. From his humble beginnings in Longview, Texas, Dr. Liggins has been driven by a singular vision to create opportunities for all students to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Currently serving as Superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools in Lexington, Kentucky—the second-largest district in the state with nearly 45,000 students—Dr. Liggins has spearheaded transformative improvements in student outcomes. Under his leadership, the district has seen significant increases in graduation rates, a narrowing of achievement gaps between student groups, and the implementation of innovative programs that have redefined success. His leadership philosophy is rooted in visibility, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to educational excellence.
Before joining Fayette County, Dr. Liggins served as Superintendent of Greenville Independent School District in Texas, where his tenure was marked by remarkable gains in academic performance and fiscal stability. His career also includes experience as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and principal across various levels of education. He has led as an elementary school principal in Corsicana Independent School District, a middle school principal in Lancaster and Mansfield Independent School Districts, and a high school principal in Grand Prairie Independent School District, where he later served as an area superintendent.
Dr. Liggins holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Texas at Arlington. A bilingual educator, he continues to champion inclusive initiatives that empower and uplift diverse student populations.
Implementing Programs That Empower Students and Communities
Dual-Language Programs
Early College High School
Early College High School
Preparing students to thrive in a global economy by learning academic content in both English and Spanish.
Early College High School
Early College High School
Early College High School
Enabling students to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree.
STEM Pathways
Early College High School
Social-Emotional Learning
Bringing cutting-edge opportunities to students, including augmented and virtual reality learning experiences.
Social-Emotional Learning
Early College High School
Social-Emotional Learning
Supporting the well-being of students and staff with mental health initiatives and mindfulness practices.
LISTEN NOW
Dr. Liggins on the Education Perspectives Podcast
In Season 5, Episode 1—“Creating Opportunity for Every Child: Dr. Liggins on Equity and Innovative School Programs”—Dr. Liggins joined the podcast to share how equity, innovation, and community partnerships are driving student success in Fayette County Public Schools.