First principal of new Fayette elementary school believes in ‘cultivating the village.’

Lamar Allen has been named the first principal of Lexington’s soon-to-open Helen Caise Wade Elementary School.

Allen, who is currently principal of George Washington Carver STEM Academy for Boys, will start his new role July 1 for the school that’s set to open in August 2027.

“He brings a track record of academic excellence and community-centered leadership to this historic opening,” Fayette County Public Schools officials said in a news release.

“Allen embodies the passion for education that we strive for in our leadership,” said Chief School Leadership Officer Lisa Smith. “His unwavering commitment to creating a warm, inclusive school environment ensures that every student, staff member, and family member feels like a valued stakeholder from the moment they walk through the doors. We are confident his vision will make Helen Caise Wade Elementary a true cornerstone of the community.”

At George Washington Carver STEM Academy for Boys, Allen has served as the primary educational leader, supervisor, and appraiser.

Allen’s has a 30-60-90-Day Plan for the new elementary campus on Greendale Road which will ensure the school provides a world-class, equitable education from day one, the news release said.

Allen’s diverse experience includes serving as a STEAM/STEM educator, Student Technology Leadership Program coordinator, and chair of a School-Based Decision Making Council. Beyond academic rigor, Allen is deeply committed to “cultivating the village,” district officials said.

His plan for the new school includes home visits and community pop-up events to meet families before the first day of school in August 2027.

This story was originally published April 2, 2026 at 12:43 PM.