LEXINGTON, Ky. — Wednesday was the first day of class for around 40,000 students in Fayette County Public Schools.

What You Need To Know

  • FCPS had its first day of school for the 2023-24 school year and welcomed about 40,000 students

  • School staff members were excited to have students back, and are looking forward to the upcoming year

  • While there are still some staffing shortages, FCPS leaders do not foresee any issues with bus routes and are still attempting to fill open positions

  • Opportunity Middle College has about 130 high school students enrolled where they can earn college credit while completing high school, and they get to do that in a college setting

While there are still some staffing shortages, FCPS leaders do not foresee any issues with bus routes and are still attempting to fill open positions.

This year there’s been a 10% salary increase, with new teachers starting at $50,000. This is the highest starting teacher salary in the state.

“I think that makes a huge difference when folks realize they’re valued and they’re appreciated,” said FCPS Superintendent Demetrus Liggins. “Our board has really put the money where their mouth is and our teachers are excited to be here.”

Teachers and administrators have been looking forward to the new school year for several reasons.

“It’s absolutely my favorite day of the year because everyone is so excited to be at school,” said Karen Edwards, the program director for Opportunity Middle College, a school that gives students the chance to earn college credit while completing high school in a college setting. “It’s a new start, it’s a new beginning.”

There are about 130 high school students enrolled at Opportunity Middle College who have a busy year ahead of them between taking high school classes and college courses, but their teachers are ready to help them along the way.

People who work in the education field say that the role of school staff members goes beyond teaching. They create an environment that feels safe for students, and say they are excited to have them back.

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