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Online petition calls for Fayette County Public school board to not renew superintendents’ contract

Fayette County Board of Education Chair Tyler Murphy says board members were surprised by a news release from the school district announcing an end to the nearly-50 year agreement with the county health department to provide school nurses.
Fayette County Public Schools
Fayette County Board of Education Chair Tyler Murphy says board members were surprised by a news release from the school district announcing an end to the nearly-50 year agreement with the county health department to provide school nurses.

A petition being spread by parents online is calling for the Fayette County Public Schools board to not renew the contract of superintendent Demetrus Liggins when it expires later this year.

It was uploaded by Rachel Buser, a parent with three children enrolled in the school system. The petition had more than 400 signatures as of Friday evening.

Buser voices concerns about overspending and the use of resources, and that the tax dollars of locals aren’t being used efficiently.

“There are many unresolved issues regarding budget allocation and resources deployment, exacerbating concerns among community members that our tax dollars are not being utilized efficiently or ethically. The very core of our concern is to ensure our children are equipped with the necessary resources to thrive and that the funds allocated to education are used as intended,” the petition’s body reads.

In a statement to WEKU, Liggins says the petition represents the opinion of a vocal minority, and that the school district has seen measurable success and growth under his leadership.

“As the Board evaluates my contract, the critical question is not about the opinions and fabrications of a vocal minority but about the measurable realities: Has the district improved under my leadership, and is there a clear plan to ensure continued growth? The facts and data provide an unequivocal answer—yes, on both counts,” the statement reads.

The school board will discuss Liggins’ contract renewal during their January 27 meeting.

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Shepherd joined WEKU in June 2023 as a staff reporter. He most recently worked for West Virginia Public Broadcasting as General Assignment Reporter. In that role, he collected interviews and captured photos in the northern region of West Virginia. Shepherd holds a master’s degree in Digital Marketing Communication and a bachelor’s in music from West Virginia University.
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