FCPS Superintendent Finalist for Missouri Job

Parents react to Dr. Demetrus Liggins' potential departure from Fayette County Public Schools

Mar. 22, 2026 at 2:48am

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Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins has been named a finalist for a superintendent position in Missouri's Hazelwood School District. Liggins' tenure has been marked by strong test scores but also controversy, drawing scrutiny from lawmakers and frustrated parents. Some parents see his potential departure as an opportunity for the district to reset, while others wish him well in the interview process.

Why it matters

Liggins' potential departure comes at a sensitive time, as the state auditor's report on the district's finances nears completion and other district leaders have decided to step down. This has raised questions about accountability and the need for new leadership to rebuild trust between the school board, parents, and the community.

The details

Hazelwood School District in St. Louis County named Liggins as one of three finalists for their open superintendent position. The district said all three candidates will participate in a public forum on Tuesday night. Liggins' tenure at Fayette County has been marked by strong test scores, but also controversy, drawing scrutiny from lawmakers, a special examination into the district's finances by the state auditor, and frustrated parents.

  • On March 22, 2026, Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins was named a finalist for a superintendent position in Missouri's Hazelwood School District.
  • The Hazelwood School District public forum with the three finalists, including Liggins, is scheduled for Tuesday night.

The players

Dr. Demetrus Liggins

The current superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools in Kentucky, who has been named a finalist for a superintendent position in Missouri's Hazelwood School District.

Amanda Preston

A parent of three FCPS students who is not surprised Liggins is looking for other positions, but is surprised he is a finalist, and hopes the district uses his potential departure as an opportunity to reset.

Norma Justice

An FCPS parent who believes Liggins' departure could benefit both him and the district, allowing him a fresh start and the district an opportunity to rebuild trust.

Hazelwood School District

The school district in St. Louis County, Missouri, that has named Liggins as one of three finalists for their open superintendent position.

Fayette County Public Schools

The school district in Lexington, Kentucky, where Liggins currently serves as superintendent.

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What they’re saying

“Definitely not surprised that he is looking, but I am surprised that he is a finalist.”

— Amanda Preston, FCPS parent

“Liggins could have a fresh start in a new area without the baggage here in Fayette County, and Fayette County could have an opportunity with to build momentum to rebuild trust between the school board, parents, and the city.”

— Norma Justice, FCPS parent

“I think the community would really welcome some who is fresh, new and who could actually do the job.”

— Amanda Preston, FCPS parent

“I wish him well as he moves through the interview process.”

— Anonymous FCPS parent

What’s next

The Hazelwood School District public forum with the three superintendent finalists, including Liggins, is scheduled for Tuesday night.

The takeaway

Liggins' potential departure from Fayette County Public Schools comes at a critical time, raising questions about accountability and the need for new leadership to rebuild trust between the school district, parents, and the community. While some parents see this as an opportunity for a reset, others wish Liggins well in his potential new role, recognizing the complex challenges he has faced during his tenure.