Over the next four years, school districts must remain focused on rebuilding stability and trust, beginning with the individuals who make schools run: educators. The most pressing priority right now is recruiting and retaining qualified teachers, staff, and administrators. Achieving competitive—especially with surrounding districts—salaries and benefits persist as a pressing issue for USD 497. Similarly, we must continue to improve the work-life balance for our educators and staff through initiatives such as increasing plan time, accounting for necessary classroom supplies and equipment, maintaining reasonable class sizes, and exploring how technology may support the day-to-day tasks of educators.

The expansion of early childhood education classrooms in USD 497 at New York Elementary Montessori, Sunflower Elementary, Kennedy Early Childhood Center, and Woodlawn is a significant step toward providing quality early learning for all Lawrence children. These programs offer diverse educational opportunities, promoting educational equality. However, there is still high demand for such programming. Expanding early childhood further would help reduce educational disparities, giving every child the foundation they need for long-term success. Investing in this expansion is an investment in a stronger, more equitable LPS communities.

The 2024-2025 Facilities Master Planning Study highlights the need to improve USD 497’s athletics and arts facilities, based on direct feedback from educators and an evaluation of indoor and outdoor spaces. Upgrading these facilities is essential for providing all students with access to high-quality athletic and arts programs, which studies show keep students more engaged in their overall education, positively impact attendance, and improve health outcomes. Investing in these facility improvements not only supports student growth but also ensures equity in opportunities, creating a more vibrant and inclusive educational environment for everyone—and potentially attracting more families to Lawrence Public Schools.

Developing thoughtful generative AI policies is essential to ensuring educational equity, academic success, and student safety across USD 497. Recognizing this, while board president Kelly convened the 2025 Ad Hoc Generative AI and Evolving Technologies Committee to lead this work. With AI’s growing influence on teaching and learning, now is the time to reset this priority following district leadership transitions and strong community input. The committee should recommend balanced, inclusive policies that protect data, address bias, and promote ethics in generative AI educational applications for students and teachers. Educators deserve clear, practical guidance on utilizing AI in classrooms, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly complex technological landscape.