After my graduation from Lee County High School, Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Navy, and graduation from the University of Kentucky Physician Assistant Program, my wife Barbara and I made our home in Lee County. My wife retired from the Lee County Middle School, so I was associated with educators and the school system for many years. Sometime after my retirement from the U.S. Department of Justice, a vacant school board position in my district existed, so I filed for it, and was elected. I very much enjoy being on our school board and helping to ensure, our students receive the proper education they deserve.
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Mr. Lamont Coldiron, Board Chair
Mr. Donald Napier, Board Vice Chair
I am a 1995 graduate of Lee County High School. I will always have the best interest of the students, staff and community in the decisions that I make as a Board Member.
Mr. William Owens, Board Member
I am in my 30th year on the Lee County Board of Education. I grew up one of 14 children in Clay County. I worked as a teen for many years as a youth worker at Youth Haven Bible Camp. During summers I met a lot of people that were concerned about the young kids in South Eastern Kentucky. Being from a poor family most of my brothers and sisters had to leave school after eighth grade and get jobs to work, but the Lord brought people in my life to help me finish high school and bible school. My wife and I have been with the mission for over forty years. I have two children that attended Lee County Schools. I believe that the Lord brought people in my life to help me, and I believe and have tried to give back to other kids that needed help and encouragement.
Dr. Avis Thompson, Board Member
My primary reason for seeking office as a Lee Co. School Board Member was to bring a unique perspective to the table. As a Retired HS English Teacher, I have been in the trenches and understand the importance of communicating with teachers, parents, students, school administrators, and the community. I believe our sole purpose is to assure that we offer the best educational experience for all of our students to become successful and productive citizens.
Dr. Thompson retired from the Lee County School District in 2006 where she was an English teacher, varsity coach for cross country, track, and volleyball, and sponsored the Beta Club and National Honor Society. She founded the Thompson Chapel in Beattyville, Kentucky in 2016 where she is the pastor.
Mr. Stephen D. Lanham, Board Member
Mr. Stephen Lanham is a 1976 graduate of Lee County High School. He furthered his education at the University of Kentucky where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He is licensed as a Professional Engineer by the State of Kentucky.
Mr. Lanham is married to Sherry Lanham, who retired from a long-term position as Director of the Lee County Schools Family Resource Center.
In his role as a member of the Lee County Board of Education, Mr. Lanham hopes to bring a fresh perspective to school board business.
2023 School Board Meeting Dates
January 10, 2023
February 14, 2023
March 14, 2023
April 11, 2023
April 18, 2023 (Rescheduled)
May 9, 2023
June 13, 2023
July 11, 2023
August 8, 2023
September 12, 2023
October 10, 2023
November 14, 2023
December 12, 2023
All meetings will take place at 6:00 p.m. in the Lee County Central Office board room located at 242 Lee Avenue unless otherwise noted.
Lee County Board of Education Policies and Procedures
Board Contact: Ms. Shana Minter, Secretary to the Superintendent
Phone: 606-464-5000
E-Mail: shana.minter@lee.kyschools.us