Each year, the KASB Board of Directors holds one of its quarterly meetings in the home district of the board’s president to learn about the success and challenges of that district.
On Friday, the board visited Lawrence USD 497, the home district of KASB President Shannon Kimball, who serves on the local school board.
The KASB board started at the Lawrence College and Career Center, enjoying a fantastic meal
prepared by the Advanced Culinary Class in which students can earn college credit.
Lawrence Superintendent Anthony Lewis gave board members an overview of the district and the district’s five-year strategic plan.
With 12,000 students, Lawrence is the seventh largest in Kansas. The district’s goal is that each student, regardless or race or background, will demonstrate proficiency in reading by third-grade, in math by eighth-grade and graduate on time and be prepared for success in college and career. Lewis said district operations are formed around a cohesive curriculum, student centered learning, safe and supportive schools, effective employees and data-informed decisions.
Board members and KASB staff then took a tour of Lawrence High School, which is undergoing a $50 million renovation and expansion that is due to be completed in August 2021.
Cynthia Johnson, interim principal of the 1,576-student LHS, said the school is focused on connecting with each student and tries to empower students to achieve their best and become responsible citizens.
“If we don’t spend time on our relationships, we have wasted our time,” Johnson said.
Board members were treated to a performance by the LHS orchestra, an award-winning, student-produced video that deals with discrimination against children with special needs, a presentation on educational equity and a student panel discussion.
The students urged board members to make sure their schools were welcoming and vigilant against bullying and discrimination. “Everyone deserves to feel safe, no matter who you are,” one student said.
To see photos from today’s visit, go to KASB’s Facebook page.
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