LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) – Fayette County Schools Superintendent Manny Caulk sent a letter to parents and guardians after the announcement that school would be canceled Friday.
Schools around the state are cancelling classes to allow teachers to rally in Frankfort to protest budget cuts to education. Caulk thanked parents for understanding and assured them that he will petition to keep May 31 as the last day of school.
Here is the letter in its entirety.
Dear Fayette County Public Schools Families:
I believe in public schools. I am a living testament to the difference a great teacher can make in the life of a child and I want that same positive experience for all of our FCPS students.
It’s discouraging that our current political climate has made supporting public education a divisive issue. Our nation is built on a commitment to educate every child and there is no better investment in the future of the Commonwealth.
Our teachers and support staff have answered the call to advocate for students by encouraging our lawmakers to fully fund education and invest in school safety and mental health services. I have heard from many of them who want to continue that effort by going to Frankfort on Friday.
In support of our teachers and support staff, we will close all Fayette County Public Schools on Friday. Students and families who rely on food backpack programs will receive these services on Thursday, April 12, 2018.
You will receive information from your school regarding afternoon and evening student activities like concerts, plays and dances. District honors band will continue as scheduled.
I will recommend that the school board forgive this day for students and keep May 31, 2018 as the last day of school. If approved, graduation would continue as scheduled on May 31 and June 1, 2018. Even without making up that day, our students will still receive more instructional hours and school days than the state requires. Employees will be responsible for making up the work time.
We are making this announcement today in an effort to give you adequate time to make arrangements for the calendar change. Thank you for your ongoing support of our students.
Your Partner,
Manny Caulk
Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent
