Beech Tree News Network

During the last day of the 2024 Regular Session, the Senate voted 36-1 to confirm Dr. Robbie Fletcher as Kentucky’s next education commissioner. 

Selected by the Kentucky Board of Education, Fletcher was introduced to members of the Senate Education Committee during a hearing on his appointment last week. The Senate confirmation process is mandated under Senate Bill 107, which lawmakers passed last year.  

Fletcher, superintendent of Lawrence County Schools, has also been a classroom teacher, assistant principal and principal. He was introduced on the Senate floor Monday by Sen. Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville. 

“I first met Dr. Fletcher approximately five years ago when I was elected to this position and have had multiple dealings with him since that time,” he said. “What I have been impressed with all during that while is his continued commitment towards the children of Kentucky schools.”

Wheeler said Fletcher has performed his duties with steadfast diligence and with the guidance of his Christian faith. He said Fletcher is not someone who will “fall back” from a challenge. 

“I am proud that he is both a Kentuckian as well as an Eastern Kentuckian,” Wheeler said. 

Sen. Stephen West, R-Paris, also spoke in favor of the confirmation. He said Fletcher did a great job during the education committee meeting.

“We had a full Senate hearing and numerous questions. I believe he may be the Mark Pope of Kentucky education. He knows the program, and he will be returning to the program. And he’s been a lifelong Kentuckian and I’m glad to see a Kentuckian as commissioner,” West said. 

Senate Majority Whip Mike Wilson, R-Bowling Green, who sponsored SB 107, said he was pleased with how the confirmation process advanced.

“I’m very pleased that the board members came over and met with us and talked to us and got our thoughts and ideas and continually reached out to us to work with us. I see a new day in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and this process has been great,” he said.