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Superintendent Swift previews Lawrence schools' back-to-school plans, reaffirms enrollment and student‑safety priorities
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Swift told the USD 497 Board on Aug. 11 that schools are ready for the Aug. 13 opening, highlighted staffing coverage, the district’s new ParentSquare communication tool, a cell‑phone-free instructional policy and efforts to support immigrant and refugee students.
Superintendent Dr. Swift told the USD 497 Board of Education on Aug. 11 that Lawrence Public Schools are prepared to open for students on Aug. 13, with staff induction events completed and buildings staffed.
"We are sliding into home base, fully covered," Dr. Swift said, praising the human resources team and others for filling vacancies quickly. She said certified-staff induction was Aug. 5 and that staff welcomed students in transitions (kindergarten, sixth grade and ninth grade) before the full opening.
Swift described a districtwide theme for the year centered on "dignity," and highlighted several operational items the district has implemented or emphasized for the new school year:
- ParentSquare: The district launched the ParentSquare communications platform and has trained staff. "Between Aug. 7 and Aug. 8, more than 900 communications were sent regarding the…
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