Kentucky K-12 Public Education Program Gains Attention

Lexington, Kentucky — The Commonwealth of Kentucky marked the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic school year in August, welcoming thousands of students across its 171 school districts. This educational landscape encompasses 120 public school districts and 51 independent districts, collectively serving approximately 634,424 students from preschool through 12th grade.

During a recent episode of the program “In Focus Kentucky,” Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent Demetrus Liggins highlighted significant achievements within his district. Liggins noted that students in Fayette County are outperforming the national average in both reading and math, an encouraging trend for educators and parents alike.

One of the pressing concerns addressed by Liggins is student nutrition. He emphasized that many schools in Fayette County provide 100% free breakfast and lunch to all students, a provision made possible by qualifying under federal regulations. The objective is to combat issues of hunger, which can significantly hinder a child’s learning capabilities.

Currently, 52 schools in the Fayette County Public Schools system participate in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. This initiative ensures that all students receive free meals regardless of their family’s income status. Liggins expressed a commitment to increasing the number of schools eligible for this program, recognizing its importance in fostering an equitable learning environment.

The conversation surrounding K-12 public education in Kentucky reflects broader themes of academic performance and essential resources for students. Stakeholders are urged to focus on these significant areas as the school year progresses, aiming to enhance educational outcomes for students across the state.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into these developments, the complete segment of “In Focus Kentucky” is available for viewing.