Lawrence Public Schools

As we wrap up January, we appreciate the diligent efforts of our students and staff, parents, and community to continue to deepen our learning together, and build on the solid momentum of this school year. It’s an exciting time in Lawrence Public Schools!

Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence Youth of the Year

We are so very proud of our 2025 Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence award winners! Congratulations to Arabella Gipp, a Lawrence High senior named the Youth of the Year last night for the third consecutive year. Gipp will again represent Lawrence at the Kansas Youth of the Year competition. The club also recognized Aiden Kong, a Sunflower fifth grader, as the Junior Youth of the Year. Both of these students spoke eloquently about what their participation in the club has meant to them, including supporting them through personal challenges. I enjoyed meeting Arabella during the first week of school, as part of her work with LHS journalism.

Community Engagement Report

In case you missed it Monday night, I was honored to share with the school board and community a report about the thoughts, perceptions, and ideas heard and received during our expansive Fall 2024 community engagement endeavor. You may review the written report and watch the video presentation online.

Our deepest gratitude to everyone who joined us in conversation and participated in our community survey. During the coming weeks, we look forward to sharing steps we will take to act in response to what we learned from you. We also plan ongoing conversations across our community to check in and continue to hear input and feedback about our progress together.

Communication Tools

The latest episode of the Lawrence Public Schools Podcast is available now. It highlights our start to 2025, including an update about inclement weather and instructional time.

You also may access my most recent Superintendent Report to the school board and community online, both in written and video formats.

Robust, successful communities are known for their care for the children and young people served in their public schools. In Lawrence, we are most fortunate to live in such an engaged, vibrant community that cares for students as our shared direction and our hope.

Thank you for all you continue to do to support the high quality educational experiences of our more than 10,500 students and the remarkable teachers, staff, and leaders who serve them each day.

Sincerely,

Jeanice Kerr Swift

Interim Superintendent

Lawrence Public Schools

The annual Formal Wear Giveaway is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Lawrence High. LHS social worker Lynisha Thomas, Prom Dress Lawrence, committee members, and volunteers host this event to provide high school students free formal wear and accessories.

Our annual All-City Choir Concert at 7:00 p.m. February 4 at the Lied Center will bring all of our middle and high school vocal performance groups together as a collaborative ensemble directed by a highly respected guest clinician. This is, most assuredly, a don't-miss event!