Superintendent William Sexton Receives Exemplary Evaluation from Clay County Board of Education

(MANCHESTER, Ky.) – Clay County Schools Superintendent William Sexton has received an overall “Exemplary” rating on his annual performance evaluation from the Clay County Board of Education, earning the highest marks possible across all seven state-mandated leadership standards.

Board Chairman Mark Hoskins praised Sexton’s continued leadership and commitment to the students and staff of Clay County, stating, “Mr. Sexton leads with a steady hand, a servant’s heart, and a strategic mind. His vision has brought financial stability, academic improvement, and a culture of unity to our schools. Clay County is fortunate to have him.”

The standards evaluated included Strategic Leadership, Instructional Leadership, Cultural Leadership, Human Resource Leadership, Managerial Leadership, Collaborative Leadership, and Influential Leadership. Sexton earned “Exemplary” in all areas.

Vice-Chairman Roy Allen echoed those sentiments, emphasizing Sexton’s fiscal and operational achievements. “We were in a tough spot financially when Mr. Sexton took over. Now, thanks to his leadership, we’ve made nearly $50 million in facility improvements and kept our budget balanced. That speaks volumes about his ability to lead and manage wisely,” Allen said.

Sexton has also championed efforts in staff compensation, securing a cumulative 23% pay increase during his tenure—a historic gain for the district.

Board member Anthony Lovett commended Sexton’s hands-on, people-first approach. “He’s not just a superintendent behind a desk,” Lovett said. “He’s out there painting walls, mowing school lawns, and even driving buses if needed. That’s the kind of leader who earns the respect of a community.”

According to the evaluation, Sexton’s leadership during times of crisis has stood out as well. He has been instrumental in the district’s emergency response efforts and in launching key partnerships—such as the one with Christian Appalachian Project (CAP)—to support students and families in need.

Board member Leewood Cornett highlighted Sexton’s dedication to students and safety. “He started our own school police department to better protect our students and staff. That’s forward-thinking leadership, and it makes a difference.”

Robin Combs, also a member of the board, pointed to the culture of pride and professionalism developing under Sexton’s guidance. “You can feel the morale shift across the district. From students to staff, there’s pride in being part of Clay County Schools, and Mr. Sexton has played a big part in building that,” Combs said.

As the district looks ahead, the board noted its commitment to working alongside Superintendent Sexton to develop the next phase of strategic priorities, citing his leadership as instrumental in shaping the future of education in Clay County.

“This rating reflects not just what Mr. Sexton has done, but who he is,” said Hoskins. “We are proud to stand behind him as he continues to lead our district forward.”