Mike Gillman has been named interim principal of Lawrence High School, and a former Lawrence Public Schools teacher will return to serve as lead principal of early childhood programs.
Gillman earned his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Haskell Indian Nations University and his Masters of Education and of School Leadership from Baker University, according to a news release from the school district.
Gillman has served his career in the district, including at Lawrence High since 2021. He is currently associate principal, and he previously served as an athletic director/assistant principal.
He has also served as assistant principal/athletic director at Liberty Memorial Central Middle School and taught at Prairie Park Elementary, West Middle School and Free State High School, according to the release.
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Gillman said in the release that he is excited and honored to step into the role.
“The unwavering support from our community is what makes Lawrence High School truly exceptional, and I feel it every day since I’ve been part of this school,” Gillman said in the release. “I am dedicated to leading our Chesty Lion family toward even greater achievements, ensuring that staff, students, and our entire community can celebrate what we accomplish together. It’s a great day to be a Lion!”
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Superintendent Jeanice Swift said in the release that “Mr. Gillman will partner with the exemplary LHS team in continuing the excellent work in service to students first, to ensure a Chesty Lion culture of belonging, strengthen community connections in support of students, and extend the long tradition of excellence that is Lawrence High School.”
Former LHS Principal Quentin Rials died in May at age 49.
The district will start a full selection process and engage LHS students and families starting in late fall to seek out the next principal.
The district has named Loralea Hubert lead principal of Kennedy Early Childhood Center and Early Childhood Programs in the district.
Hubert earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Kansas State University and a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Kansas, according to the news release and Kansas State Department of Education data.
Hubert served as an early childhood special education teacher in Lawrence Public Schools from 2009 through 2014, according to the release.
She has served as the director of early childhood for the Auburn-Washburn School District since July 2023, and prior to that, she worked with the East Central Kansas Cooperative in Education, De Soto school district; overseas in the American International School of Muscat in Oman; and in Manhattan-Ogden Public Schools, according to the release.
Hubert said in the release that she’s excited to become part of a community that values and recognizes the impact of early childhood education.
“I look forward to listening, learning, and building relationships with staff, families, and community partners as we work together to create meaningful opportunities for our youngest learners,” Hubert said in the release. “Early childhood provides the foundation for lifelong success, and I am excited to support a shared vision that helps every child learn, grow, and thrive within our schools and throughout our community.”
Swift said with Hubert’s selection, the district adds expertise and a demonstrated commitment to the youngest children.
“We know the transformative impact of quality early learning in a child’s educational experience and life, and look forward to taking the next exciting steps with Ms. Hubert in supporting our impressive preschool team and in moving forward,” Swift said in the release.
Lawrence school board members approved both positions during their Monday meeting. They will be effective July 1.
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More USD 497 personnel changes:
School district names interim principal of Lawrence High School, early childhood principal
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