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Lawrence parents weigh advantages, concerns of cell phone-free schools; school board to vote on policy
A new policy imposing a cell-phone free instructional day is on the table, and while some Lawrence parents believe it would better support teachers, others said they’re worried about the safety implications.
MORE USD 497 & K-12 EDUCATION NEWS
Altercation breaks out near Sunset Hill Elementary; Lawrence police investigating
Updated to add video: Lawrence police were investigating Thursday after a reported altercation involving signs near an elementary school, where an anti-mask protester and pro-mask counter-protesters have been stationed often since school began last month.
Lawrence library to host school board candidate town halls for kids and adults
Lawrence school board candidates will participate in town halls Wednesday afternoon hosted by the Lawrence Public Library — first with the Kids’ Action Club, and then a second for the older crowd.
Anti-mask protester draws attention, concern from school community, Lawrence drivers
A protester has added his anti-mask message to the morning routine at Sunset Hill Elementary School, leading some in the Lawrence community to express concerns for safety.
Lawrence school district declines to give details on students, staff in quarantines
As COVID-19 case counts rise just a week into the school year, students in Lawrence schools have been directed to isolate after potential exposure to the virus. That’s problematic for learning — and for students who need meals.
Longtime occupational therapist earns grant for learning path at Quail Run Elementary
As Lawrence school district staff prepped indoors for the new school year, Occupational Therapist Karen Lassman painted a vibrant outdoor classroom on Quail Run Elementary’s east playground.
COVID-19 cases in Lawrence Public Schools, wastewater detection added to stat dashboard
The Times has added a searchable database of cases reported in Lawrence Public Schools, and a chart of the amount of COVID genetic material detected in Lawrence wastewater, which can help public health leaders anticipate when cases will be on the rise.
Lawrence school board recognizes winners of Juneteenth essay contest and more
The Lawrence school board congratulated winners of the Juneteenth essay contest, approved a permaculture garden for Free State and more at its meeting Monday.
School bus driver shortage, traffic jams create transportation troubles across Lawrence
No matter how students trek to school this year, some are trudging a rough path amid a bus driver shortage, heavy traffic, and changes to crossing guard locations.
Free State High permaculture garden, 7th grade sports on school board agenda
The Lawrence school board will consider approving a permaculture garden for Free State High School, sports for 7th graders and more at its meeting Monday.
Massive mural spans renovated school, Lawrence High history
A massive new mural project reveals snapshots of Lawrence High School’s storied past, including images of social justice and the football bonfire, cultural representations of communities that comprise the school and the school’s mascot, Chesty Lion.
Lawrence families, schools prepare for in-person learning amid new wave of COVID-19 cases
The third school year of the COVID-19 pandemic kicks off this week in Lawrence Public Schools. As students join their teachers in classrooms across Lawrence, questions and uncertainties loom.
Lawrence school board approves tentative budget with tax rate decrease, sets public hearings
The Lawrence school board approved publication of a budget with a slight property tax decrease Monday night.
Lawrence school board to review proposed budget; details unavailable Sunday
The district is facing ongoing challenges from rising costs, inflation and reductions in school funding due to an enrollment loss of almost 700 students last school year.
Parents, coaches call for equitable sports choices for 7th grade girls in Lawrence
As Lawrence school district leaders struggle to deal with current budget problems, challenges related to a nearly two-decades-old shortfall persist. Citing inequities, parents and coaches are voicing frustrations about limited athletic options for 7th grade girls this fall.
Still unofficial but updated election results separate tied Lawrence school board candidates by 6 votes
After counting 69 ballots received in the mail Wednesday, a race between two candidates for Lawrence school board is still too close to call.