Lexington, Kentucky, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Fayette County Schools Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins faces scrutiny over nearly $152,000 in expenses since early 2023, raising concerns about district financial management. An additional $30,000 was charged during Liggins’ transition before officially starting his role. Investigations reveal excessive spending on meals, hotels, and airfare, prompting calls for enhanced financial accountability within the district as oversight policies are set to change.
Lexington, Kentucky – Fayette County Schools Superintendent’s Spending Scrutinized
Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins has been charged with nearly $152,000 in expenses incurred between January 2023 and May 2025, prompting concerns over the district’s financial management. An additional $30,000 was spent on Liggins’ transition into the role before he officially began in July 2021, leading to taxpayer spending exceeding $4,000 weekly during this period.
The spending details were revealed following an analysis of nearly 950 public records by local media. Liggins utilized a procurement card—designed for convenient spending on work-related expenses—to charge items that included approximately $25,969 for meals, over $44,150 for hotel accommodations, and $8,084 for airfare. The range of expenses included travel for conferences, attendance at student activities, and sending teachers on professional development trips.
The Fayette County school district is currently under investigation by an independent auditor due to increased public scrutiny regarding its financial practices since May 2025. The State Auditor Allison Ball is also performing a special examination of the district’s expenditures, amid rising concerns about the necessity and documentation of some high-priced meals associated with Liggins’ meetings with district officials, including significant dinners at establishments such as Morton’s Steakhouse.
Details of Expenditures
During his tenure, Liggins went on 29 board-approved trips across multiple cities including San Francisco, New York City, and Dallas, with a total of more than $3.6 million being spent on over 200 trips by administrators and teachers during the 2023-2024 school year. This spending reportedly outstripped that of other large school districts in Kentucky.
Notably, Liggins charged $6,869 for attending an international conference in Australia. Most of the approved travel included significant registration fees and professional memberships. The board, while approving travel expenses, stated that they only review broader travel policies and budgets instead of scrutinizing each individual receipt, leaving potential gaps in oversight.
Calls for Accountability
School board chairman Tyler Murphy noted that the board’s role involves approving travel policies instead of examining all specific expenses individually. In contrast, board member Amanda Ferguson commented on the increased frequency of travel, suggesting a shift compared to previous superintendents. In light of the scrutiny, the school district is planning to implement changes to its travel policies to enhance accountability in spending practices.
Moreover, it has been highlighted that some receipts associated with Liggins’ expenses lacked adequate documentation as required by IRS standards, raising further financial accountability concerns.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigations and transparency issues have intensified discussions concerning the leadership and fiscal practices within the Fayette County school district, sparking calls for Liggins’ resignation in light of the financial discrepancies revealed. Further reviews by auditors are anticipated to provide clarity on the district’s spending moving forward.
FAQ
What is the amount charged by Dr. Demetrus Liggins in expenses?
Dr. Demetrus Liggins charged nearly $152,000 in expenses from January 2023 to May 2025.
How much did the district spend on Liggins during his transition period?
During Liggins’ transition period before his official start date, the district spent an additional $30,000.
What investigative actions are being taken regarding the district’s finances?
The Fayette County school district is hiring an independent auditor to investigate spending patterns, while State Auditor Allison Ball is conducting a special examination of the district’s finances.
Summary of Expenditures by Category
| Expense Category | Amount Spent |
|---|---|
| Meals | $25,969 |
| Hotels | $44,150 |
| Airfare | $8,084 |
| International Conference (Australia) | $6,869 |
| Total Expenses (Transition Period) | $30,000 |
| Total Superintendent Expenses | $152,000 |
| Administrator and Teacher Trips (2023-2024) | $3.6 million |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Fayette County School Board Reviews Superintendent’s Spending Amid Budget Crisis
Fayette County Schools Superintendent Faces Scrutiny Over $152,000 Expenses
Fayette County School Board Approves $827.2 Million Budget
Fayette County Public Schools Faces Severe Budget Crisis
Calls for Leadership Changes at Fayette County Public Schools
Fayette County Public Schools Awarded $14 Million Grant
Suspension of Fayette County Schools Budget Director Raises Concerns
Suspension of Fayette County Schools Budget Director Raises Concerns
Kentucky Bill to Ban Taxpayer Funding for Lobbying Services in Schools
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County Schools Superintendent’s Spending Scrutinized
- WKYT: Fayette County Superintendent Charged with Expenses
- Fox56News: Fayette County School District Salary Database
- LEX18: Fayette County Schools Budget Shortfall
- Spectrum News: Fayette County Schools Emigrant Domain Lawsuit
- Google Search: Fayette County Schools Budget Transparency
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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