LEXINGTON, Ky. — Fayette County Public Schools announced the election of six committee members tasked with screening candidates for the district's next superintendent, completing a state-mandated requirement following the August retirement of Dr. Demetrus Liggins.

The Superintendent Screening Committee includes Sarah Fightmaster Bayerle, a kindergarten teacher at Maxwell Spanish Immersion Elementary; Whitney Walker, a social studies teacher at Lafayette High School; Adrielle Camuel, an administrative assistant in the Department of Student Belonging and Success; Matthew Vied, a parent with children at Cassidy Elementary and Morton Middle School; Julie Strange, principal of Wellington Elementary; and Penny Christian, a District 3 member of the Fayette County Board of Education.

Kentucky state law requires the establishment of the six-member committee within 30 days of a superintendent vacancy. The committee represents diverse stakeholder groups within the district, including certified and classified staff, school leadership, parents, and board representation.

"The Fayette County Board of Education is committed to an open search process that strengthens student, employee, family, and community engagement," Board Chair Tyler Murphy said in a statement. "Working collaboratively, we will continue to support success for each and every child in Fayette County Public Schools."

The district is planning additional community engagement beyond the screening committee's work. All information about the superintendent search is available at FCPS.net/search. The school board plans to conduct community-wide surveys and listening sessions to develop a leadership profile for the next superintendent and gather input on desired qualifications and characteristics.

Dr. Bill Bradford currently serves as interim superintendent following Liggins' retirement in mid-August after a controversial tenure marked by budget concerns and personnel disputes.