Our Focus: Your Student's Success



Points of Pride for Lawrence Public Schools

National Blue Ribbon School: Broken Arrow Elementary

National Blue Ribbon-Nominated School & Challenge Award Winner: Woodlawn Elementary

Kansas Standard of Excellence Honors: All 22 Lawrence schools

11 National Merit Finalists & two National Achievement Program Scholars

National Debate Qualifiers: Lawrence High

Lawrence students' ACT average score (23.5) continues to exceed both state (21.9) and national (21.1) averages, indicating that local high school students receive a rigorous core curriculum and are well prepared for college-level coursework.

State Champions: Free State High Novice Debate & Gymnastics, Lawrence High Cross Country, Southwest Junior High Chess

Kansas Master Teacher: Kassie Shook, Sunflower Elementary, & Kansas Horizon Award Winner: Andy Bricker, Lawrence High

Kansas Music Educators Association Outstanding Secondary Kansas Art Educator of the Year: Laurie McLane–Higginson, Free State High

KMEA Overall Outstanding Kansas Art Educator of the Year: Carolyn Berry, Free State High.

Lawrence Public Schools' administrators, teachers, staff and retirees contributed more than $45,500 to the Douglas County United Way this year.

Fueled by increases at the elementary level, and at the Lawrence Virtual School, the district's enrollment is up this school year.

The Lawrence Board of Education approves District Goals, relating to the areas of teaching and learning, school configuration, community and parent relations, personnel and professional development, financial management and technology.

 What's New?

Discussions of 6–8 Middle Schools
The school board invites community input as it examines whether to move sixth grade to the middle–school level.

Schools in Session on Make-Up Days
Due to the use of snow days on January 7 and 8, Lawrence schools will be in session on the district's two designated inclement weather make-up days, April 16 and 30.

Your Input Improves Learning
The district invites public input about Career and Technical Education. Take this five-minute online survey to help us improve student learning opportunities.

School Board Approves Budget Reduction Plan
Due to losses in state aid, the Lawrence Board of Education has approved a plan to reduce the 2010–11 budget by $5 million. Read more.

Schools Host Kindergarten Roundups
Lawrence elementary schools will welcome new kindergartners and their families to school during Kindergarten Roundup in April. Contact your school for details.

Ready to Learn to Drive?
Students eligible for Summer Driver's Education may enroll from 8–11 a.m. on April 10 at Free State High School.

Legislative Session Under Way
The state budget, including funding for public education, will be a major area of focus during this year's legislative session. Here's how to contact your legislators to share your opinions.

Enroll Now for Summer Programs
Summer programs open for enrollment include novice band/orchestra, junior high jazz and 7th grade choir, band and orchestra. Also read about the Extended School Year program for qualified students.

Prevent the Spread of Germs
Wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when you are ill. It's simple steps like these that will help prevent the spread of germs, including H1N1 influenza. Read More.

Most Requested Resources
Planning Ahead?