Dr. Demetrus Liggins, superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools, has been named the 2026 Superintendent of the Year by the Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA). He received this prestigious award during KASA’s annual leadership institute in Louisville on July 25, 2025.
For more than 30 years, KASA has partnered with the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) to select Kentucky’s Superintendent of the Year. The individual chosen from Kentucky then goes on to compete for the National Superintendent of the Year award.
The Superintendent of the Year Award celebrates the outstanding contributions of Kentucky’s superintendents, recognizing their advocacy for public education, dedication to students, and long-term commitment to the future. Nominees are evaluated on four key criteria: leadership for learning, communication, professionalism, and community involvement.
In Kentucky, a blue-ribbon panel conducts a rigorous multi-phase selection process to determine the recipient of this distinguished honor.
Dr. Liggins has served as superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools since July 2021, leading Kentucky’s second-largest district with a student-first mindset and a clear commitment to equity, innovation, and opportunity. A native of Longview, Texas, and a first-generation college student, he brings nearly three decades of education experience—including roles as teacher, principal, area superintendent, and district leader.
Prior to his move to Lexington, he led Greenville Independent School District in Texas, where he oversaw dramatic improvements in both academic outcomes and fiscal performance. During his tenure there, he launched a citywide bilingual literacy campaign, opened a STEM academy and Early College High School, and built a partnership providing free college tuition for students from low-income families.
Known for his dynamic communication, student-focused leadership, and strategic partnerships, Dr. Liggins has been recognized nationally as a “Superintendent to Watch” and a mentor to rising education leaders across the country.
“Dr. Liggins exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, resilience, and vision,” said KASA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Rhonda Caldwell. “His life’s work reflects the heart of this year’s institute theme: Live Well, Lead Well, and Serve Well. Congratulations to Dr. Demetrus Liggins—our 2026 Superintendent of the Year!”
KASA’s Leadership Awards Program is offered in partnership with American Fidelity Assurance Company
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