LEXINGTON, Ky. — Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins has escalated a dispute with the school board by filing an appeal with Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, alleging the Fayette County Board of Education violated the state's Open Meetings Act during a June 10 closed session, according to WUKY 91.3 FM.

Liggins was suspended with pay following the June 10 meeting. The superintendent's appeal suggests he believes the board improperly closed the session, potentially violating Kentucky's transparency requirements for public entities.

Under Kentucky's Open Meetings Act, public bodies may hold closed sessions only under specific circumstances, such as personnel matters, real estate transactions, or legal strategy. Even when permitted, closed sessions must follow procedural requirements and the board must typically disclose certain information about actions taken.

The appeal to Coleman's office represents Liggins' attempt to use the state's legal system to challenge the board's actions. The Attorney General's office reviews such complaints and can determine whether violations occurred and recommend remedies.

Liggins' decision to appeal signals disagreement with how the board conducted the June 10 session and the decision to suspend him. The suspension with pay — which allows him to continue receiving his salary — leaves the superintendent in a precarious position regarding his employment status pending the outcome of the legal challenge and any further board action.

The dispute between the superintendent and the board reflects broader tensions, though the specific catalyst for the June 10 meeting and suspension has not been publicly detailed.