Lawrence County Superintendent Robbie Fletcher selected as Kentucky’s next education commissioner

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Lawrence County schools Superintendent Robbie Fletcher was selected as Kentucky’s next education commissioner by the state board of education on Thursday.

As the chief state school officer, the commissioner recommends and implements state board of education policies. The role includes directing the state education department in managing public school districts, the Kentucky School for the Deaf, Kentucky School for the Blind and state-operated area technology centers.

Kentucky Board of Education Chair Sharon Porter Robinson said in a news release that Fletcher demonstrates the leadership qualities sought by the board.

“After thoughtful consideration of the feedback collected from numerous Kentucky stakeholders and the priorities of the KBE, we sought a leader who embodies the qualities of an ambassador and statesperson, an expert instructional leader, a strong organizational leader and a visionary innovator,” Robinson said. “We are confident that Dr. Fletcher meets these requirements and are excited about the future of education in the commonwealth under his leadership.”

Fletcher has been superintendent of Lawrence County in eastern Kentucky since 2014. Prior to that, he worked in Martin County as principal of Sheldon Clark High School and principal of Warfield Middle School. Fletcher started his career in 1996 as a math and science teacher before becoming assistant principal at Inez Middle School in Martin County, the news release said.

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His selection will go to the Kentucky Senate for confirmation.

“If confirmed, I will be honored to serve all of Kentucky’s kids and all those involved in our kids’ educational experiences alongside each board member,” Fletcher said.

Republican state Sen. Mike Wilson said in a separate statement that he was encouraged by the state board of education’s choice.

“Robbie Fletcher is from right here in Kentucky and is very familiar with the needs of students across the commonwealth,” Wilson said.

Lawmakers hope to meet with Fletcher soon, the senator said.

Fletcher will begin his new role on July 1 if confirmed by the Senate, state education officials said.

The role is currently being filled on an interim basis by Robin Fields Kinney, who stepped in after Jason Glass left the position last September.