News Summary
Fayette County Public Schools has released important dates for the upcoming academic year, highlighting the first day for Williams Wells Brown Elementary and key holiday breaks. The district is also facing budget scrutiny with a significant shortfall and a proposed tax increase, while introducing initiatives aimed at improving student engagement and learning. The new policies include a ban on cellphones in classrooms, aiming to enhance focus among students. Updates on budget matters and other important information will be communicated through official channels.
Lexington, Kentucky – Fayette County Public Schools has announced critical dates for the upcoming academic year, starting with Williams Wells Brown Elementary’s first day on July 30, 2025, followed by the official start for all other Fayette County students on August 13, 2025. Key holiday breaks throughout the year have also been scheduled.
Significant dates include:
- Labor Day: September 1
- Fall Break: September 29 – October 6
- Thanksgiving Break: November 26-28
- Winter Break: December 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: January 19
- President’s Day: February 16
- No school/possible weather make-up day: March 20
- Spring Break: April 6-13
- Election Day: May 19
- Memorial Day: May 25
- Last day of school for students: May 28
- Scheduled make-up days for students: May 29 – June 10
Any weather-related disruptions may lead to adjustments in the school calendar, and updates will be shared on the district’s website.
In addition to these important dates, Fayette County Public Schools is currently under special examination by the state auditor’s office due to a significant $16 million budget shortfall and the proposal for a tax increase. The audit is anticipated to conclude by the end of 2026. The state auditor highlighted the necessity for correct procedures in response to concerns regarding transparency related to the tax increase proposals.
Recent actions taken by the Fayette County School Board to increase the occupational license tax faced criticism for lack of public notice. Subsequently, the Attorney General announced that the proposed tax hike was unlawful due to procedural inadequacies. The current budget of the Fayette County school district exceeds $848 million, and the tax increase is projected to add an average of $13 monthly to residents’ bills. To address this financial crisis, the district is forming a budget workgroup.
As part of its new initiatives, Fayette County Schools has launched the Empowerment Initiative, aimed at enhancing student engagement and learning. This initiative includes the integration of artificial intelligence in classrooms to improve educational experiences.
In addition, the school district has implemented a new policy banning cellphones in classrooms, with exceptions allowed for specific classes and medical reasons. This decision aligns with their ongoing effort to improve student focus and overall success in educational settings.
Fayette County Schools reported a 5% to 6% increase in student achievement over the past academic year, indicating positive trends in educational outcomes despite the budgetary challenges. The district continues to prioritize effective communication and timing regarding tax and budgetary measures in order to build trust with the community.
The district reminds families that necessary updates regarding the budget and the school year will be communicated through its official channels, ensuring that all stakeholders are kept informed.
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum News: Fayette County Public Schools Calendar for 2025-2026
- Google Search: Fayette County Public Schools
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County School Budget Meeting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentucky Education
- WV Metro News: Fayette County Schools New Superintendent
- Google News: Fayette County Schools Budget
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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