Fayette County Public Schools’ District 5 Board Election Intensifies Between Incumbent and Former Principal

Lexington – The race for the Fayette County Public Schools’ District 5 board seat is heating up as incumbent Amy Green faces off against former principal Betsy Rutherford. The election will determine the direction of educational policies in District 5, which encompasses the area between Tates Creek and Harrodsburg roads, from south Lexington near Veterans Park to Baptist Health on Nicholasville Road.

As of October 22, Kentucky Registry of Election Finance records show that Rutherford’s campaign has raised $10,975.48, with total expenditures of $10,716.31. In contrast, Green’s campaign has garnered $7,562 in funding and spent $5,336.

Amy Green, 42, who has been on the board since November 2020, emphasized her commitment to student success and community engagement. “I would be honored to be able to serve again as a board member for the Fayette County Public schools,” she stated. Green, a parent of two current school students, is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in leadership with a focus on mathematics. Her priorities include enhancing instructional resources, expanding educational opportunities, and ensuring fiscal responsibility within the district.

Green’s extensive background includes teaching math at both K-12 and university levels and serving as vice chair of the school board. “True leadership is about more than just policy — it’s about empathy and connection,” she noted, highlighting her goal to foster an inclusive educational environment where families feel valued.

On the other hand, Betsy Rutherford, 61, brings 32 years of educational experience to the table. Starting her career as a special education teacher, she progressively took on roles, including ten years as principal at Russell Cave Elementary. Rutherford asserts that her comprehensive experience within the district makes her an ideal candidate. “I care about all kids — not a cliche with me,” she remarked. She is focused on improving student achievement and is committed to transparent communication with the community.

Rutherford’s ambitions include addressing achievement gaps in schools performing below proficient levels and ensuring that budgetary allocations genuinely support student needs. She is known for her problem-solving skills and is vested in listening to the concerns of both staff and families in the educational community.

As both candidates prepare for the upcoming election, they aim to persuade voters with their visions for the future of education in Fayette County. This election will not only reflect the community’s preferences in educational governance but also indicate the priorities for the school district moving forward.