Superintendent

 

Dr. John Derek Faulconer, Superintendent
395 West Main Street
Carlisle, KY 40311
johnderek.faulconer@nicholas.kyschools.us
859-289-3770

 

Letter from Superintendent - 7/1/2026: 

Welcome to Nicholas County Schools, where every decision is guided by what is best for our students. Our dedicated staff lives our district motto, Every Student, Every Day, through a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, meaningful relationships, and opportunities that prepare students for lifelong success.
At Nicholas County Schools, we provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where students are encouraged to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. We believe education extends beyond the classroom and thrives through strong partnerships among schools, families, businesses, and the broader community. We invite you to visit our schools and experience Nicholas County firsthand.

As Superintendent, I am deeply committed to ensuring every student has access to exceptional learning experiences and a pathway to a successful future. My passion for education is rooted in a belief that great schools are built by great educators. I am dedicated to supporting and empowering teachers, staff, and school leaders as they work to inspire and challenge students each day.

A strong advocate for community engagement, I believe schools serve as the heart of a community. I value the rich traditions, strong work ethic, and close-knit relationships that make Nicholas County special. My commitment to the students and families of this area is reflected in the desire to build partnerships that strengthen both the school district and the community it serves.

Born and raised in Cynthiana, I am a proud product of the farming communities of Harrison County. The values I learned growing up in a rural agricultural community—hard work, perseverance, integrity, and service to others—continue to shape my leadership philosophy and commitment to public education. I understand the important role schools play in strengthening communities and creating opportunities for future generations.

My experiences have reinforced my commitment to helping students discover and pursue meaningful opportunities after high school. I am especially passionate about expanding access to dual-credit courses, career and technical education, industry certifications, work-based learning experiences, military pathways, and college and career readiness programs. My vision is that every Nicholas County graduate leaves our schools prepared to pursue higher education, enter the workforce, serve in the military, or follow a career pathway that aligns with their goals and aspirations.

Family is important and serves as a constant reminder of the transformative power of education. I am a proud father of one son, who is preparing to graduate from Tennessee Technological University. This personal connection to higher education further reinforces my commitment to helping every student identify and pursue a successful path beyond high school. I am committed to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement and look forward to working alongside students, staff, families, and community partners to build on the strong foundation of Nicholas County Schools and create even greater opportunities for future generations.

Together, we will continue to ensure that every student receives the support, encouragement, and opportunities needed to succeed—Every Student, Every Day.

 

Bio:

Dr. Faulconer, a native of Cynthiana, Kentucky, and a 1996 graduate of Harrison County High School, has dedicated more than 22 years to public education, including over 15 years in educational leadership. He joined Knox County Schools in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2013 as the founding principal of Career Magnet Academy and, in 2025, became the district’s first Director of Military Enlistment. Prior to his tenure in Knox County, he served as a teacher and administrator with Anderson County Schools in Clinton, Tennessee, and Corbin Independent Schools in Corbin, Kentucky.

Dr. Faulconer earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Kentucky, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Tennessee Technological University, and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy analysis from East Tennessee State University.
In addition to his career in education, Dr. Faulconer serves as a Captain in the United States Army Reserve with the 489th Civil Affairs Battalion. He is a Civil Affairs-qualified officer and Civil Affairs education specialist. He completed the Medical Center of Excellence Basic Officer Leadership Course at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, in 2025 and graduated from the Civil Affairs Captain’s Career Course at the United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in 2026.

 

Board Chair Quote: 

Mrs. Cheryl Rawlings, Board Chair said, "Dr. Faulconer stood out as a leader who is passionate about education, committed to students, and ready to build strong relationships across our community. We are excited about the future under his leadership."