FCPS Superintendent Liggins thanks the community for winter storm efforts | Opinion

Words cannot express how grateful I am to the countless individuals across Fayette County Public Schools and the city of Lexington who have gone above and beyond to support our schools during this recent weather event.

I hope you will join me in thanking the many who came together to ensure our students have what they need:

To our dedicated staff, thank you for the countless hours spent last week, over the weekend, and throughout this week securing our buildings, addressing mechanical issues, and clearing snow and ice to create safe pathways for our students and staff. Your hard work and commitment did not go unnoticed.

To our transportation team, your efforts to clear snow, check road conditions at all hours, and deliver Chromebooks to students were invaluable. You are a vital part of keeping our schools running smoothly, and I deeply appreciate your dedication.

To our school counselors, Family Resource Youth Service Center coordinators, and student support staff, your role in supporting families during this storm has been nothing short of extraordinary. From ensuring meals reached those in need to connecting families with vital resources such as a warm place to stay, your efforts have provided comfort and care to those who needed it most. You truly exemplify what it means to go above and beyond for our students and their families.

To the city of Lexington and Mayor Linda Gorton, your partnership in clearing roadways, bus routes, and stops ensured the safety of our community. The Department of Emergency Management has been a steadfast partner, keeping us informed throughout Winter Storm Blair. We are incredibly thankful for your collaboration.

To our incredible teachers and educators, I cannot thank you enough for the many ways you impact our students every day. Stories of your dedication, like the teachers who called home to sing “Happy Birthday” to students who couldn’t celebrate with their class, or those who personally delivered technology devices to ensure their students could learn, are a testament to the heart and soul of FCPS. We are the city we are because of the educators in FCPS!

To our staff volunteers, delivering Chromebooks, fielding calls at the Help Desk, and providing support across the city exemplify teamwork in action. Your willingness to step in wherever needed is truly inspiring.

To our amazing school principals, your leadership made this week possible. The dedication and passion you bring to your schools are unmatched, and the positive impact you have on our students and staff cannot be overstated. Thank you for all you do.

To our families, your continued partnership, support, and trust in us to educate and care for your children mean the world. Thank you for standing with us and for working together as we navigate challenges like Winter Storm Blair.

This storm will be remembered for years to come — not only for the challenges it brought but for the resilience, kindness, and teamwork it revealed in our community. Above all, our priority remains the safety and well-being of our students, and I am deeply proud of how our staff, families, and community members came together to ensure our students were cared for and supported.

Please join me in extending gratitude to everyone who played a role in helping us navigate Winter Storm Blair and keeping our students safe. Together, we continue to demonstrate what makes Fayette County Public Schools truly exceptional.

With gratitude,

Demetrus Liggins, Ph.D.Superintendent

This story was originally published January 17, 2025 at 3:28 PM.