The Kentucky Department of Education is a service agency of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and part of the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. The department provides resources and guidance to Kentucky's public schools and districts as they implement the state's P-12 education requirements. The department also serves as the state liaison for federal education requirements and funding opportunities.
The department is led by an appointed Commissioner of Education, who is hired by and answers to the 11-member Kentucky Board of Education. Offices are administered by associate commissioners, and divisions within those offices are administered by division directors.
See a copy of our KDE Organizational Chart
The Kentucky Department of Education
Vision
Each and every student empowered and equipped to pursue a successful future.
Mission
To partner with districts, schools, families, students, business and industry, and communities to provide leadership and support to ensure success for each and every student.
Core Values
- Equity
- Achievement
- Collaboration
- Integrity
The department employs approximately 502 Frankfort-based workers; 200 employees in support of the Kentucky School for the Blind and Kentucky School for the Deaf; and about 540 employees at the 53 Area Technology Centers.
See the
Online Directory for information on specific programs, initiatives and resources, including staff who work with specific programs.
The department's major activities include:
- administering the statewide assessment and accountability system;
- providing technical assistance to schools and districts in the areas of finance, management and curriculum;
- providing support and information to the Kentucky Board of Education as it promulgates state education regulations;
- overseeing the state's education technology system; and
- monitoring school and district compliance with state and federal laws.
The Kentucky Department of Education and the Kentucky Board of Education do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender identity, veteran's status, genetic information or disability in employment or the provision of services.
Rafael Hieatt
Executive Administrative Secretary
Office of the Commissioner of Education
300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 564-3141 Ext. 4814
Fax (502) 564-3049
rafael.hieatt@education.ky.gov