Fayette County superintendent Liggins is a finalist for job in Missouri

Demetrus Liggins, superintendent for Fayette county Public Schools, is a finalist for superintendent of the Hazelwood School District in Florissant, Missouri, according to that school district’s website.

Hazelwood school district officials said in a Friday news release that Liggins is one of three candidates for the job, and he will participate in a public forum March 31 in Florissant.

Hazelwood’s news release says Liggins has led FCPS during a time of significant gains in academic success.

“Graduation rates have reached a historic high, and for the first time, none of the district’s 70 schools have been identified as needing improvement or for academic achievement gaps among Black or economically disadvantaged students,” Hazelwood’s news release says.

The other candidates are Bonita Jamison and Keith McGee, the website said. Liggins became superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools in 2021 after the death of Manny Caulk.

Liggins has recently been part of investigations into FCPS finances. Significant budget issues for the district last year caused him to order an investigation from an independent law firm, which revealed oversight issues from Liggins’ direct reports. In another investigation, conducted by a separate law firm, Liggins also was found to not have looked closely enough at FCPS’ budget issues and to not have effective enough management in place to avoid the problems.

Liggins has acknowledged issues but says he has taken measures to better manage the budget, and says FCPS’ financial situation has improved.

Liggins said Saturday he was honored to be considered for the role.

“I am honored to be named a finalist for this position, a recognition that reflects the meaningful progress our entire team has made together at Fayette County Public Schools,” Liggins said in a statement. “When a district is doing strong, impactful work, it is not uncommon for its leaders to be recruited by other communities, and I see this opportunity as a reflection of the collective success of our students, staff, and community.”

Fayette County Board of Education Chairman Tyler Murphy issued a statement Saturday saying the board would respect Liggins’ “privacy as he weighs what is best for his family and his career, while supporting the work happening here for students.”

“The Board remains appreciative of Dr. Liggins’ leadership of Fayette County Public Schools, which continues to be defined by success in the classroom and improved student achievement,” Murphy said in the statement.

Murphy also said the board remained focus on “our collective work of improving student outcomes by maintaining the upward trajectory of this district and ensuring that the progress we are making continues.”

The candidate who Hazelwood selects is expected to begin the role July 1, 2026, according to Hazelwood School District.

This story was originally published March 21, 2026 at 2:53 PM.