S5 E1 Creating Opportunity for Every Child: Dr. Liggins on Equity and Innovative School Programs

PODCAST Season 5 EPISODE 1Dr. Demetrus LigginsFayette County Public SchoolsSuperintendentQuote of the Podcast: "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit" -AristotleIntroduction of Guest BIO – Today’s guest is Dr. Demetrus Liggins, superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools since 2021. A former English and ESL teacher, Dr. Liggins has served in nearly every role in education—from classroom teacher to high school principal to area superintendent—across California and Texas. Before coming to Lexington, he led Greenville ISD near Dallas, where he transformed a struggling district into one with significantly improved academic and financial ratings, earning state recognition.Bilingual and deeply committed to equity, Dr. Liggins launched innovative programs like a citywide literacy initiative, a dual-language track, a STEM academy, and an Early College High School. His leadership has earned him national accolades, including being named a Superintendent to Watch and Kentucky’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year. With advanced degrees in education and policy and a passion for student success, Dr. Liggins is widely respected for his results-driven leadership and deep investment in mentoring the next generation of educators.InterviewAgents of Change: Leaders/Innovators. 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?What drew you to education?What do you love about what you do?Portrait of a Graduate and Deeper LearningLocal AccountabilityWhat are the biggest challenges to you?What would you like decision makers to know?” Podcast/ website/ book shoutoutshttps://www.fcps.net/about/superintendent-s-office/strategic-plan/portrait-of-a-graduateSupport the showEducation Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inboxIntro and Outro by Dynamix Productions