Lawrence Public Schools

Lawrence Public Schools In Lawrence USD 497, our focus is your student's success! We're located on Interstate 70 about half-way between the capital city of Topeka and Kansas City.

The seventh-largest public school district in Kansas, USD 497 serves more than 10,000 students in Lawrence. With more than 1,500 employees, we're also one of the city's largest employers. Our 21 school campuses include a pre-kindergarten program, 11 elementary schools (grades K-5), four middle schools (grades 6-8), two comprehensive high schools (grades 9-12), a K-12 virtual school, and a college

and career center and academy. In addition, we offer early childhood services for families of children from birth to age four. Transition programs bridge the gap between high school graduation and college and careers. Adult education services provide adult basic education, English as a Second Language courses, G.E.D. study and testing, and the opportunity for adults to earn a high school diploma. USD 497 maintains this social media site as a limited public forum for moderated online discussion germane to the business of our school district. In order to protect this site's integrity and credibility, we use reasonable, viewpoint-neutral guidelines. Questions and feedback should be related to our posts and demonstrate the same civility and respect we teach and and model for our students. Keep in mind that Facebook allows students age 14 and older to have accounts; students may be using this site. In addition to adhering to Facebook's discrimination and harassment policies, the district uses Facebook's filter to automatically hide comments containing profanity and obscenities, and as a safety measure, to filter links due to the frequency of phishing scams and spam. This is not a forum for commercial marketing, sales, campaigning, or electioneering. The district reports all threats to law enforcement. Please contact our Communications Office at 785-832-5000 with questions about these guidelines.

Our district's Native American Student Services team celebrated new beginnings for 2026-2027 last week, hosting a corona...
06/04/2026

Our district's Native American Student Services team celebrated new beginnings for 2026-2027 last week, hosting a coronation ceremony to introduce Haven Rain Littlehead (Northern Cheyenne & Navajo) as the 2026-27 Jr. Miss Indian Youth of Lawrence.

Among those in attendance for the ceremony were Littlehead's family, NASS team members, Executive Director of Finance Cynde Frick, and Lawrence Board of Education Vice President Bob Byers. Haven, a Liberty Memorial Central Middle School student, was also honored by two fellow Lawrence Public Schools students in a special moment of passing the torch. Outgoing 2025-26 Miss Indian Youth of Lawrence NaFehna Farve and 2025-26 Jr. Miss Indian Youth of Lawrence Riley Alva joined in adorning Littlehead with her new crown and sash.

Congratulations, Haven Rain Littlehead! We are so excited to see what this year will have in store!

We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to our outgoing 2025-26 royalty, NaFehna Farve and Riley Alva. They have done an outstanding job representing NASS, Lawrence Public Schools, their peers, their communities, their families, and themselves throughout their reigns. Their dedication has made an impact on so many. We wish them both well on their future endeavors.

Lawrence Public Schools is proud to announce Ashley Vance, Office Manager for the Deputy Superintendent, as our spring s...
06/01/2026

Lawrence Public Schools is proud to announce Ashley Vance, Office Manager for the Deputy Superintendent, as our spring semester recipient for the 2025-26 Class Act Award.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Larry Englebrick shared the news in front of the Facilities & Operations team and spoke about Vance's unique journey and impact on the district. "Ashley is a Lawrence Public Schools success story," said Dr. Englebrick. Vance started at the district in a part-time role and grew into several full-time positions, serving across a variety of divisions and departments along the way. "All of those roles focused on service," noted Dr. Englebrick.

Superintendent Dr. Swift also lauded Vance and all of Facilities & Operations for their exceptional teamwork and continued support throughout the summer. "10,000 children are counting on us to have every classroom ready, and we're able to do that because you continue to show up every day," said Dr. Swift.

Much of Ashley's work happens behind the scenes โ€” coordinating with contractors, vendors, and organizations throughout Lawrence โ€” but its impact is felt each day across our schools and community. Whether navigating internal challenges or supporting needs of buildings at opposite ends of the district, Vance brings calm, grace, and a consistently positive attitude to everything she does. Her ability to improvise and adapt, according to Dr. Englebrick, "allows our organization to run smoothly and efficiently."

"She makes a lot of us look good," he added.

The Class Act Award honors one outstanding classified staff member each semester whose actions, character, and teamwork exemplify the best qualities of a teammate. LEAP partner Truity Credit Union also provides winners with a $500 prize.

Class Acts don't just represent themselves; they represent the dedicated efforts of their entire team. Ashley strengthens and elevates everyone around her, much like Facilities & Operations does for our district, and we are grateful to call her our teammate. Thank you and congratulations, Ashley Vance!

05/30/2026

โ€ผ๏ธ๐‘ฐ๐‘ป'๐‘บ ๐‘ฎ๐‘จ๐‘ด๐‘ฌ๐‘ซ๐‘จ๐’€โ€ผ๏ธ
Washburn Rural HS v. Free State HS | High School Baseball
2026 Class 6A State Boys Baseball (Finals)
๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Saturday, May 30, 2026
โณ 25 min. after prev. game
๐Ÿ“ WSU-Eck Stadium
๐Ÿ“บ Watch Live Stream โšพ๐Ÿ‘‰: https://bit.ly/4sludKS
๐Ÿ’ฌ Pro Tip: Tag your friends to make predictions!

Lawrence Adult Education Center graduate Genevieve Sloan took to the podium to speak to her peers in the Adult Education...
05/29/2026

Lawrence Adult Education Center graduate Genevieve Sloan took to the podium to speak to her peers in the Adult Education Class of 2026, reflecting on the decision that changed her path: "If I had not taken a chance and enrolled in this program, I would not be standing before you today."

After thanking the educators, friends, and families who made the moment possible, Sloan left fellow graduates with a powerful truth from their time at the Adult Education Center: "Knowledge is the only thing someone cannot take away from you." Sloan urged everyone in the room to carry that lesson forward and embrace every opportunity to keep learning. "There is so much to learn and a lifetime to do it. That is why I consider myself a life learner, and the universe is my school."

With our final commencement ceremony of the 2025-26 school year, Lawrence Public Schools honored 54 members of the Adult Education Class of 2026. 25 Lawrence Diploma Completion Program graduates earned diplomas from Lawrence High School (12) and Lawrence Free State High School (13), and 29 Lawrence Adult Education Center graduates completed their GED.

Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Kerr Swift had a clear message for the graduates: they were ready. "Every experience that you've had up to this point has prepared you for just this very moment," she told the graduates, expressing deep admiration for the resolve and fortitude they demonstrated throughout their journeys. "In overcoming those challenges, you've already demonstrated exactly what you need as you move out into the world to face the next set of challenges."

Adult Education Services Coordinator Ashley Eicholtz framed the evening in terms that went beyond credentials. "Tonight is about more than GEDs and diplomas. Tonight is about courage โ€” the courage to start over, the courage to keep going when life gets hard, and the courage to believe your story is not finished yet." Eicholtz knows that courage firsthand. Herself an alumna of the Lawrence Adult Education Center, Eicholtz recounted walking through the same doors as this year's graduates to earn her GED as an 16-year-old mother. Now, Eicholtz holds an associate's degree in pre-law and leads that very same program she enrolled in back in 2004. "There is no expiration date on becoming who you are meant to be," she told the class.

Joined by board colleagues, district leaders, and Adult Education staff, Board of Education President GR Gordon-Ross closed with a charge to the graduates to own and celebrate what they had accomplished. "Regardless of the path you took to get here, you are here today because you have finished. Regardless of the trials, regardless of the roadblocks, regardless of what is put ahead of you โ€” you can overcome and you can get through it. Congratulations, we are proud of you, Class of 2026."

Congratulations, Adult Education Class of 2026!

While seniors across the district closed the chapter on high school last week, eighth graders in Lawrence were marking a...
05/28/2026

While seniors across the district closed the chapter on high school last week, eighth graders in Lawrence were marking a milestone of their own: celebrating the end of middle school and the start of their high school journeys.

A herd of Mustangs packed the auditorium at Liberty Memorial Central Middle School for a ceremony honoring the eighth grade class with awards and musical performances. Among the highlights was the LMCMS Excalibur Choir's performance of "All That They Had They Gave," a musical interpretation of the Rudyard Kipling stanzas inscribed above the school's stage โ€” words that have watched over generations of Mustangs since the opening of Liberty Memorial High School in 1923.

Principal Phillip Mitchell closed out the ceremony with a charge to the 103rd class of Central. "Support each other. Help each other through this next step, just as you have helped each other through these last three years," he said. Mitchell left them with one final reflection: "I want you to think about one time where you impressed yourself. I want you to picture that moment. Every time you walk by this building...that's the moment I want you to think about."

Cougar Country showed up in full force for the Billy Mills Middle School eighth grade recognition ceremony, with staff, students, and families lining the hallways and gym to cheer on the class of 2030 as they processed through the building for the final time as middle schoolers. Surrounded by classmates and loved ones, eighth graders heard speeches from peers and educators reflecting on their years at BMMS and offering words of encouragement to the soon-to-be freshmen. Student speaker Abhirup drew on the words of the school's namesake himself, leaving his fellow eighth graders with this reminder from Billy Mills:

"Every morning you are handed twenty-four golden hours. They are one of the few things in this world that you get free of charge. If you had all the money in the world, you couldn't buy an extra hour. What will you do with your priceless treasure? Remember, you must use it, as it is given only once. Once wasted, you cannot get it back."

The Lawrence Board of Education will meet at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday.The board's consent agenda includes several curriculum an...
05/26/2026

The Lawrence Board of Education will meet at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday.

The board's consent agenda includes several curriculum and equipment purchases: AssessPrep, a four-year assessment management platform to help teachers track student progress, at $61,754.40 per year; the HighScope PreK Curriculum, a research-based early childhood program, for a one-time cost of $40,424.99; acoustical shells for Free State High School choir performances at $27,494.44; 35 Dell laptops for classroom labs at a cost not to exceed $100,000; and band and orchestra instruments totaling $65,634.73. The board will also consider approving elementary classroom supplies for the coming school year, four meal-service vending machines for the Choice Campus and College & Career Center at a total cost of $73,100, the district's 2026-2027 fee schedule, renewal of the annual financial audit contract, monthly vouchers, the personnel report, and minutes from the May 11 meeting.

Under new business, the board will consider ratifying negotiated agreements with the Lawrence Education Association for both certified staff and education support professionals for 2026-2027. The certified staff agreement includes an 8.32% increase to the salary pool, raising the base salary to $51,000. The ESP agreement includes an 11.87% increase, raising the starting wage to $20.00 per hour. The board will also consider a 3% increase to the administrative salary pool.

Review the board's agenda at www.usd497.org/school-board. Attend the meeting at 110 McDonald Drive or watch it live at youtube.com/ or Midco Ch. 26.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. It's no wonder, then, that students and colleagues at Lawrence High School...
05/22/2026

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. It's no wonder, then, that students and colleagues at Lawrence High School and beyond have a countless number of wonderful words to say about Angelia Perkins, our 2026 Lawrence Master Teacher.

On the final day of her legendary, 32-year career of teaching art and photography at Lawrence High, it was Angelia Perkins who found herself on the other side of the viewfinder as fellow LHS teachers, district staff, friends, and students past and present surprised her with the award. Assistant Superintendent of HR Kristen Ryan spoke to the crowd about Perkins, who has spent more than 30 years inspiring students at LHS through creativity, artistic expression, and meaningful learning experiences. Perkins's nomination materials highlighted her ability to encourage students of all backgrounds and abilities to create artwork rooted in their own experiences, perspectives, and identities.

"Ms. Perkins is an incredible art educator," one nomination statement shared. "She encourages students to make personal connections through art based on their own interests and perspectives. Ms. Perkins celebrates diversity and highly values the unique perspectives that her students bring with them."

Throughout her career, Perkins has helped students earn national awards, scholarships, and recognition while also developing confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Former students frequently return to reconnect with her and share the impact her classroom had on their lives. In fact, Perkins got to see her impact up close while admiring a portrait of herself created by a current LHS student artist, Lotus.

Thank you, Angelia Perkins! You are, and will always be, a picture-perfect Chesty Lion!

"Students in her classroom love learning, and it's not because of big activities or over-the-top projects โ€” it's because...
05/22/2026

"Students in her classroom love learning, and it's not because of big activities or over-the-top projects โ€” it's because of the magic of Ms. Yanek."

If you need proof that magic is real, you can find it at Quail Run Elementary with kindergarten teacher Jacey Yanek. After hearing about her amazing academic feats, we decided to perform a magic trick of our own by naming Yanek our 2026 Elementary Teacher of the Year in front of the whole school.

Though the teacher was stunned by the announcement, those familiar with Yanek know that her teaching excellence wasn't conjured out of thin air. Our visit included several surprise appearances โ€” including family members, a $1000 prize from LEAP partner Truity Credit Union, and our lovely Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cole Amaya, who had and a few quotes up his sleeves from Quail Run parents and colleagues sharing what makes Yanek a truly marvelous teacher.

"Jacey Yanek inspires all the students in her class each day. As a kindergarten teacher, she begins the year with 24 students, all with completely different backgrounds and experiences. Yet, she molds them into a family where every member feels confident, valued, and loved."

"Ms. Yanek brings joy, humor, and curiosity to her classroom each day and the students mirror her passion in the classroom."

One of the Quails had this to say about Yanek's wizardry: "When I started kindergarten I wasn't smart yet, but look at me now, I am so smart!"

Thank you, Jacey Yanek! We look forward to nominating you in the fall to KSDE's Kansas Teacher of the Year recognition program.

In front of an electric Bulldog crowd, Dr. Larry Englebrick shared a list of quotes from the Southwest Middle School com...
05/22/2026

In front of an electric Bulldog crowd, Dr. Larry Englebrick shared a list of quotes from the Southwest Middle School community on what makes Deborah Woodall Routledge an applause-worthy teacher.

"She builds a classroom where students feel supported, respected, and motivated the very best they can. Kids talk about how she makes a difference in the learning environment in her classroom."

"She holds every student to high standards and high expectations, while being incredibly approachable and supportive. What really stands out is that she is invested in the musical community and the overall community here in Lawrence."

"She is truly engaged in creating a better education for all students."

With help from the Bulldogs to pull off the surprise, we recognized Deborah Woodall Routledge as our 2026 Secondary Teacher of the Year. LEAP partner Truity Credit Union was also there to award her $1,000. As the Lawrence Secondary Teacher of the Year, Routledge will be our districtโ€™s nominee for Kansas Teacher of the Year in the fall.

With 35 years of teaching band under her belt, Routledge is no stranger to standing ovations or amazing performances. Routledge serves as Southwest's band director and has been at Southwest Middle School since the school opened its doors in 1995. She has earned several honors during her time in Lawrence Public Schools, including the Lawrence School Foundation's 2024 Dedication to Education Award, Golden Apple Award, and the Lied Center's 2017-18 IMPACT Award.

Thank you and congratulations, Deborah Routledge! Queue the fanfare!

Lawrence High School's Class of 2026 gathered together to celebrate the educational milestone of earning their high scho...
05/21/2026

Lawrence High School's Class of 2026 gathered together to celebrate the educational milestone of earning their high school diploma. The ceremony opened with a tribute, and moment of silence, on behalf of Principal Dr. Quentin Rials (LHS Class of 1995), whose recent passing has been deeply felt by families, students, and staff. It was stated that he chose a career in education because he believed every student deserved to be seen, and that his impact reaches far beyond the walls of Lawrence High School and will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Kerr Swift addressed the 318 members of the Class of 2026 with a message of strength and purpose: "Every experience you have had on your journey has prepared you for this very moment, and tonight, you have absolutely everything it takes to move forward in confidence and impact our world in profound and positive ways." Dr. Swift closed her remarks with a heartfelt send-off that felt especially meaningful on this evening: "Go, be the light. Go, shine bright."

Among the Chesty Lion seniors, 36 Valedictorians were honored for earning perfect 4.0 GPAs and two were recognized as KSHSAA Citizenship Award recipients, Ian Freel and Goldy Stephens. Teacher Marci Leuschen was honored as LHS Teacher of the Year, a distinction chosen by the entire senior class.

Student speaker Eli Cokelet reflected on what Lawrence High has given its graduates to carry forward: "What we must take away from our years at Lawrence High is the power of a community that thrives through diversity and through compassion." Fellow student speaker Evan McDonald looked out at his classmates and saw the full measure of what this class represents: "Sitting before me are some of the world's smartest minds, strongest athletes, most creative artists, the kindest, the funniest, and above all else the hardest working people I've had the pleasure of knowing." McDonald also spoke to the lasting impact of the relationships built within LHS halls: "The astonishing thing is my future is shaped by the people that inspired me to become ambitious โ€” and I think that's the most powerful part about Lawrence High School."

Board of Education President GR Gordon-Ross, who had a special personal stake in the evening as his daughter Anna was among the graduates, offered the Class of 2026 a promise to hold onto: "Your people are out there. They are waiting for you to find them. All you have to do is keep looking. Look for the things that matter to you, do the things that bring you joy, and you will find your people."

Congratulations, LHS Class of 2026!

Address

110 McDonald Drive
Lawrence, KS
66044

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Tuesday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 7:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 7:30am - 4:30pm

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+17858325000

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