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Schools on alert for hazing incidents
Monday, March 3, 2003
Lawrence High School junior Alex Ayre says he might subject himself to hazing if participation in high school basketball hinged on it.
Budget committee considers list of cuts
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
It would have been cruel Tuesday to force the Lawrence school district's budget committee to make snap judgments about $5.8 million in proposed spending cuts.
FSHS students speak out in silence
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Signs of frustration flashed Monday on fingertips of protesting students at Free State High School.
6News video: School board member sends strong message
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
6News reports on Monday nights school board meeting.
Board member: Bond failure won't stop school closures
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Rejection of the Lawrence school board's $59 million bond issue in April won't block elementary school consolidation, the school board's vice president said Monday.
Lawrence school board
Sunday, February 23, 2003
Agenda highlights • 7 p.m. Monday • 110 McDonald Drive
6News video: School Board profile - Cindy Yulich
Saturday, February 22, 2003
This is one of 13 6News school board candidate profiles that will run in alphabetical order online each weekday, Monday through Friday, through Feb. 21.
Broken Arrow chalks up 35 years
Friday, February 21, 2003
There's something about Broken Arrow School. People come, and then find that they never want to leave. In 35 years, the school at 2704 La. has had just two principals.
6News video: School board profile - Ron Powell
Friday, February 21, 2003
Powell wants to bring a view of the "whole picture" to the school board.
Cuts on the table
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
No art, music and gym for kindergartners. No sixth-grade band and orchestra. No junior high wrestling and cheerleading nor high school golf and gymnastics. No pay for coaches and sponsors of just about every sport and extracurricular activity.
Candidates share cost-cutting ideas
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
Candidates for Lawrence school board stepped to the microphone Tuesday to explain how each would trim wasteful spending in the district.
6News video: Board hears suggestions on cuts
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
6News reports on Tuesday nights Budget Committee meeting.
Local Briefs
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
• KU greeks lend hand with Girl Scout cookies
• Elections: Meet the candidates series begins today
• Lawrence schools: Fifth-grader suspended after incident with knife
• Trafficway plans: Corps adds two weeks to SLT comment period
• World Online: Live Eagle Cam focuses on roosting tree
• Gasoline: Pump patrol tracks down lowest prices in Lawrence
School programs again face cuts
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Layoffs, bigger classes at secondary schools and elimination of elementary school band are among the budget-cutting ideas expected to be presented today as Lawrence schools look for ways to reduce spending.
Principal search narrows to six
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Four Lawrence school administrators are among six finalists for principal at West Junior High School, officials said Monday.
Bond opponents question district's Web site content
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
Opponents of the Lawrence school board's $59 million bond issue don't think the district is playing fair.
6News video: More cuts to hit Lawrence schools
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
6News reports on the newest round of discussion on cuts to be made in the Lawrence school district.
Cost of staffing elementary schools varies in district
Sunday, February 16, 2003
The Lawrence school district spends twice as much on teachers for Dale Roussel's school as it does at the school Jenna Giele attends.
Board candidate shares plans during online chat
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Here are excerpts from Tuesday night's online chat with Scott Morgan, who is running for re-election to the Lawrence School Board:
6News video: Morgan shares thoughts in online chat
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
6News reports on the online chat with School Board President Scott Morgan that was hosted by World Online.
New LHS principal ready for larger school's challenges
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
Steven Nilhas' commute to class at Kansas University will be quicker now that he has been named Lawrence High School's next principal.
Teachers receive first award of excellence
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
Two veteran Lawrence public school district teachers Monday were surprise recipients of the first Mayor's Excellence in Education awards.
6News video: Board meets new principal
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
6News reports on the new principal at Lawrence High School, Steve Nilhas.
Briefs
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
• School board increases LHS property insurance
• Closed school passed to Grant Township
District art teachers stretched thin
Monday, February 10, 2003
Woodlawn School sixth-grader Scotty Thellman says 30 minutes isn't enough time to sink his fingers into art class.
Lawrence school board
Monday, February 10, 2003
Agenda highlights • 7 p.m. today • 110 McDonald Drive • Sunflower Broadband Channel 26
Firms illustrate goals of bond
Sunday, February 9, 2003
Architect John Wilkins says his firm's design for a new South Junior High School eliminates a big mistake of the past.
School board candidates debate closings
Sunday, February 9, 2003
Lawrence school board candidates chiseled battle lines deeper into the political landscape Saturday at the first major forum of the primary campaign.
6News video: School board to get first look at renderings
Sunday, February 9, 2003
6News reports on the designs submitted by architects for some of Lawrences' schools.
'Serious discussion' urged as bond vote nears
Wednesday, February 5, 2003
Advance voting starts today, and campaigning for the Lawrence school board and a $59 million school bond issue is moving into high gear.
Student activity fee auction nets $60,000
Tuesday, February 4, 2003
The tally from a fund-raising event for Lawrence public school students is as sweet as notes pouring from a flute and as impressive as a spiral touchdown pass on the football field.
6News video: Students to get help with pay-to-play
Tuesday, February 4, 2003
6News reports on the fund drive held by Citizens for Students to help with the pay-to-play fees.
New group forms to fight bond
Monday, February 3, 2003
A new group wants to strike out the school district's proposed $59 million bond issue.
Bond issue called divisive
Sunday, February 2, 2003
Lawrence school board member Jack Davidson says the plan to consolidate elementary schools and pass a $59 million bond issue for school construction is provoking class conflict.
Sousa band honors best junior musicians
Saturday, February 1, 2003
Onstage, kids tapped their feet, pursed their lips and puffed out their cheeks. In the audience, parents and band directors puffed out their chests.
Even Barbie can pitch in for student fees at auction
Friday, January 31, 2003
Need a mint condition "schoolteacher" Barbie? How about a ticket to the Kansas-Missouri basketball grudge match?
Kansas Day passes uneventfully -- except in the classrooms
Thursday, January 30, 2003
Wednesday was Kansas Day, the 142nd anniversary of the state's admission into the Union. Not that you could tell in Lawrence.
Pro-bond group sees answer in details
Thursday, January 30, 2003
The uphill battle to convince Lawrence voters to approve a $59 million school bond could be won if people took time to scrutinize the details, leaders of a pro-bond group said Wednesday.
"This is not just a matter of bricks and mortar," said Chuck Warner, co-chairman with Judy Wright of Vote Yes for Lawrence Kids.
6News video: The bond issue brings out opposition
Thursday, January 30, 2003
Several different groups are speaking out about school consolidation and bond-issue.
Honor Roll
Thursday, January 30, 2003
Campaign urges residents to ‘Vote Yes for Kids'
Thursday, January 30, 2003
A group of Lawrence volunteers Wednesday said they would lead a Vote Yes for Lawrence Kids campaign in support of a $59 million public school bond issue.
Anti-bond alliance marshals troops
Thursday, January 30, 2003
Lawrence school board candidates Wednesday began formation of a coalition opposed to consolidation of elementary schools and the district's $59 million bond issue. "We will have to work together as a team -- get elected together as a block -- to be effective," said candidate Michael Pomes, an activist in the Park Hill Neighborhood Assn.
District gives fair prognosis for school health care system
Wednesday, January 29, 2003
Opinion still runs hot and cold about the Lawrence school board's decision to save $60,000 a year by replacing school nurses with health office attendants.
Schools may close pending remodel
Wednesday, January 29, 2003
Principal Sharen Steele vividly recalls a 1996 renovation project that turned New York School into a construction zone inhabited by children.
LHS principal finalists up for committee interviews
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
A half dozen finalists for Lawrence High School principal will interview this week with two committees of teachers, students and parents, officials said Monday.
Internet filter blocks discussion forum
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
The Lawrence public school district's Internet filter prevents students and teachers from having computer access to the Larryville.com community discussion forum.
6News video: Boundary change possible if bond passes
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
6News reports on Monday nights Lawrence school board meeting.
Board candidate served jail time
Friday, January 24, 2003
A Lawrence school board candidate served five days in jail for illegally detaining four juveniles involved in a 1996 school-yard fight with his children. Parents of two of the Deerfield School students he detained also filed a civil lawsuit against Brent Garner, who is among 13 candidates for school board. That was dropped when the parents accepted a $15,000 settlement.
Candidate changes mind about quitting race
Friday, January 24, 2003
Samuel Gould, who considered dropping out of the race for Lawrence school board, said Thursday that he now planned to take part in campaign activities.
Few file for area school board races
Thursday, January 23, 2003
Loren Lutes feels good about the necessity for a primary election in the race for Oskaloosa school board.
"I think it's healthy," the Oskaloosa superintendent said Wednesday. "We have nine candidates for four positions."
District's plan favors Lawrence architects
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Four Lawrence architecture firms have been selected to design major projects that are part of the school district's proposed $59 million bond issue, officials said Tuesday.
School board slate grows to 13
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Seven people jumped into the Lawrence school board race before Tuesday's deadline, forcing a primary election to trim the 13-candidate field.
6News video: Last minute candidates will send voters to primaries
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
6News reports on the candidates for the Lawrence School Board.
Bond would put schools for sale
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
The Lawrence school district may have to juggle disposition of five properties if elementary school consolidation plans fall into place.
Board grants easement for utility
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
The Lawrence school board is doing its part to help Westar Energy of Topeka shed its $3.6 billion debt.
6News video: Bond money would help South Junior High
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
6News reports on some of the problems plaguing staff members and students at South Junior High school.
Bond's success crucial to South
Monday, January 20, 2003
Principal Russell Blackbird says a tour of South Junior High School is usually enough to convince visitors the building isn't worth saving.
Schools register 123 fire code violations
Saturday, January 18, 2003
Fire code inspectors found more than 100 safety violations in their latest inspection of Lawrence public schools.
Sue Morgan to run again
Saturday, January 18, 2003
The field of candidates for Lawrence school board expanded Friday with the unexpected filing by incumbent Sue Morgan.
Fire inspection infractions listed by location
Saturday, January 18, 2003
Here are the number of fire code infractions found during inspections by Lawrence-Douglas County Fire & Medical at each school in the Lawrence school district.
More teacher layoffs likely for Lawrence district
Friday, January 17, 2003
It's likely the Lawrence school district will lay off teachers a second consecutive year, the district's human resources director said Wednesday.
Sue Morgan files for re-election to school board
Friday, January 17, 2003
(Updated Friday at 10:29 a.m.) Sue Morgan on Friday became the third incumbent Lawrence school board member to file for re-election.
Governing bodies plan for shared vision, goals
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Lawrence builds a new sewage-treatment plant. That, in turn, allows Douglas County to welcome another 19,000 residents to the 20 square miles immediately south of the Wakarusa River.
Snow brings slick roadways and school cancellations
Thursday, January 16, 2003
(Updated Thursday at 4:02 p.m.) A winter storm dropped between 4 and 5 inches of snow in the Lawrence area overnight, leading officials at most area public schools to cancel classes Thursday. The storm, which brought icy conditions to area highways, also lead to many minor accidents on the Kansas Turnpike, according to law enforcement officials.
School district dodges bullet; city gets no reprieve
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Lawrence school Supt. Randy Weseman said he was relieved by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius' decision not to recommend another cut in base state aid to public school districts.
Absences skyrocket as virus hits schools
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
A flu-like virus is sweeping through Douglas County area schools, causing absentee rates to soar and forcing one private school in Lawrence to temporarily close.
School board candidate quits after crime record surfaces
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
A candidate for Lawrence school board Tuesday quit the race after being questioned about a probation sentence he is serving in connection with a domestic disturbance.
6News video: Students honor civil rights leader with dinner
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
6News reports on Tuesday nights' 16th annual Martin Luther King Jr. dinner at New York Elementary.
Board candidate opposes proposed bond issue
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
The single parent of two special-needs Lawrence public school students filed Tuesday for a school board seat.
Board approves closing Riverside
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
The 30-day clock is ticking on families worried that closing Riverside School might cause problems at Deerfield and Pinckney schools.
Lawrence district expands role in handling retirement plans
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
About 450 Lawrence school district employees now have a new way to manage parts of their retirement plan.
Fourth candidate enters board race
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
A former theology student now married to a public school teacher filed for Lawrence school board Monday.
6News video: School board makes decision on Riverside
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
6News reports on Monday night's school board meeting.
Lean times fatten free lunch numbers
Sunday, January 12, 2003
As the Kansas economy founders, more of the state's children are turning to public school district cafeterias to find a warm meal. Enrollment in the federal free-and-reduced-price meal program in Kansas has increased by 12,000 children in the past three years, bringing statewide enrollment to 36 percent among 484,000 students in the public schools. The increase occurred during a period in which public school enrollment fell by 16,000 students.
Board set to approve LHS contract with Coca-Cola
Sunday, January 12, 2003
Where soft drinks are concerned, nothing but the taste of Coke products will be on the lips of students at Lawrence High School the rest of this academic year. "It will be all Coke products," said Kathy Johnson, the district's budget director. "There won't be any Pepsi sold in machines."
Lawrence school board
Sunday, January 12, 2003
Agenda highlights • 7:15 p.m. Monday • 110 McDonald Drive
Davidson opts out of board race
Saturday, January 11, 2003
Jack Davidson, a voice of dissent on the proposed $59 million bond issue for Lawrence schools, said Friday he wouldn't seek re-election to the school board.
Henry satisfied with one city term
Saturday, January 11, 2003
After four years on the Lawrence City Commission, Jim Henry wants to give someone else a chance.
Students' TLC helps bring exotic pets back to health
Saturday, January 11, 2003
Two leopard geckos rescued nearly two months ago from "deplorable conditions" in a Lawrence exotic pet shop are off the critical list and entertaining students at Prairie Park School.
‘Beloved' LHS teacher remembered
Friday, January 10, 2003
Linda Clark was always the first to send flowers.
Now her saddened students want to return the gesture.
Some question district's rationale for bond election
Thursday, January 9, 2003
Ed Tato doesn't understand Lawrence Schools Supt. Randy Weseman's math. Tato, president of East Lawrence Neighborhood Assn., said Wednesday that he couldn't follow a formula that showed closing three elementary schools and spending $59 million to upgrade remaining school buildings equaled financial efficiency.
LHS teacher found dead in her home
Thursday, January 9, 2003
(Web Posted Thursday at 3:11 p.m.) A veteran teacher at Lawrence High School was found dead Thursday at her home. Linda Clark, who apparently died of natural causes, taught Spanish at LHS for a quarter century and was involved in numerous extra-curricular activities.
District honors sophomore teacher
Thursday, January 9, 2003
Prairie Park School sixth-grade teacher Bria Klotz said Wednesday that she worried about losing her job -- again -- when called to the principal's office to meet with Supt. Randy Weseman. After all, Klotz was among Lawrence teachers caught in last year's layoffs.
District will review ‘sacred cows' next
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Reaching the Lawrence school board's budget-cutting target of $4.5 million will be as challenging as hitting a dartboard blindfolded.
Loveland to run for fifth term on Lawrence's school board
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
(Updated Wednesday at 4:29 p.m.) Mary Loveland, who has been on Lawrence's school board for nearly 16 years, said Wednesday she plans to run for another four-year term.
Schools chief bemoans funding, mandates
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Supt. Randy Weseman made it clear Tuesday that Lawrence has a great public school district. He's proud of the district's teachers and students.
6News video: School board warns of more budget cuts
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
6News reports on Tuesday night's Lawrence school board meeting.
Monarch Watch pilgrimage at risk
Tuesday, January 7, 2003
Money troubles may keep Monarch Watch from delivering 5 tons of school supplies to Mexican children this year.
School board president will run again
Tuesday, January 7, 2003
The president of the Lawrence school board filed for a second term Monday, declaring his candidacy a referendum on a proposed $59 million bond issue for school construction and renovation.
Principals want to revamp junior high conferences
Tuesday, December 31, 2002
Lawrence junior high school principals want to close the book on rush-hour style parent-teacher conferences. "We've always been frustrated because we haven't been able to conference in a way meaningful to parents," said Ted Juneau, principal at Central Junior High School.
District not likely to adopt proposal for four-day week
Monday, December 30, 2002
It's an increasingly popular money-saving idea in school districts across the country, but the four-day week doesn't appear likely to become a staple in Lawrence public schools. "It's been floated," said Scott Morgan, school board president. "The board has not expressed much interest in that."
Group still hopes to raise $100K
Saturday, December 28, 2002
Trying to raise $100,000 to counter increases in student fees at Lawrence public schools is as challenging as hitting three-point baskets and all the right notes in the musical "South Pacific." "Harder than ever imagined, but worth it," said Jackie Ferguson, who, along with friend Rosy Elmore, formed Citizens for Students. "It's like a full-time job."
6News video: Lawrence women asking for donations to help with pay-to-play
Saturday, December 28, 2002
6News reports on two Lawrence women who are seeking donations to help underprivelaged students pay for after school sports in the pay-to-play program.
Free State students seek new species
Saturday, December 28, 2002
A team of researchers from Free State High School may have discovered a new species of microscopic invertebrate in Costa Rica.
Santa's message ho-ho-holy
Wednesday, December 25, 2002
It seems innocent: A Christian minister dresses up as Santa Claus and visits elementary schools before the holiday break. But some parents of students in the district said Tuesday they were offended because the Santa impersonator invited to all three elementary schools in the Baldwin public school district by Supt. Jim White ignored constitutional principles separating church and state.
Board president calls for ‘breather' on bond issue
Tuesday, December 24, 2002
School board President Scott Morgan has a holiday suggestion: Those questioning the Lawrence board's proposed $59 million bond issue should set aside their concerns about the plan until the new year.
Board sets maximum class sizes
Sunday, December 22, 2002
Hundreds of Lawrence elementary students applying for school transfers finally know what they're up against.
The school board has approved maximum class-enrollment limits for purposes of considering student transfer requests.
District's review of hourly salaries continues
Thursday, December 19, 2002
A $37,000 study of Lawrence school district jobs held by classified employees will be finished in February, but the prospect of using it to boost salaries appears dim.
New requirements may force elimination of elective courses
Thursday, December 19, 2002
Kellyn Young says she needs more -- not fewer -- opportunities to take elective courses at Lawrence High School. The LHS senior is no fan of the Kansas State Board of Education's decision last week to require that students complete an extra year of math and science as well as a year of fine arts to graduate from a Kansas high school.
Second-graders serve up a side dish of lyrical verse
Wednesday, December 18, 2002
The blue-plate special Tuesday at Poetry Cafe was a heaping serving of words. Second-graders at Langston Hughes School offered service with a smile as they treated their parents, siblings and other relatives during a 33-poem buffet of verse centering on things culinary. Most of the poems were silly; others were just sweet.
Teachers miss 10,000 days of class a year
Tuesday, December 17, 2002
Lawrence district teachers are taking full advantage of sick and personal time - they collectively were absent from classrooms more than 10,000 days each of the past two years.
Do-not-resuscitate policy gets school board's approval
Tuesday, December 17, 2002
Josh Graves put in life-and-death terms the Lawrence school board's decision to comply with do-not-resuscitate orders for terminally ill students. "I'm here because of my brother," Graves told the school board Monday. "He died yesterday."
6News video: Family members of 11-year-old support district's DNR policy
Tuesday, December 17, 2002
6News reports on Monday night's school board meetin where the district's DNR policy was discussed.
Schools face life or death controversy
Sunday, December 15, 2002
It's the sort of problem usually left to doctors and nurses. But Lawrence school district workers soon may be grappling with it, too, despite some education experts saying it is out of their league.
Lawrence school board
Sunday, December 15, 2002
Agenda highlights • 7 p.m. Monday • 110 McDonald Drive
School district layoffs likely
Saturday, December 14, 2002
Supt. Randy Weseman said Friday the Lawrence school district would begin work on the 2003-2004 budget under the assumption expenses will have to be cut another $1.5 million.
State board adds to school requirements
Thursday, December 12, 2002
State education officials approved changes Wednesday in graduation and school accreditation requirements designed to ensure no child is left behind.
But questions remain about whether Kansas has the money to bring its children along.
Panel weighs 'unthinkable' school cuts
Thursday, December 12, 2002
Some schools could close. Some popular after-school programs could be eliminated. Courses could be tossed. Those are options being weighed by a panel of 20 school district volunteers whose job it is to find millions of dollars in possible budget cuts to balance the 2003-2004 budget.
Knife, fight, drug incidents result in school suspensions
Thursday, December 12, 2002
Two high school and two junior high students were each suspended Wednesday for at least five days for their parts in separate incidents.
Retiring principal, board member clash on bond issue
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
If Jack Davidson runs for re-election to the Lawrence school board, there’s one vote he shouldn’t count on.
First candidate files for board
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
The first official candidate of the 2003 Lawrence school board race supports a planned $59 million bond issue for school construction and closure of three elementary schools.
Deadline approaching for principal position
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
School administrators yearning to earn $90,000 a year have less than two weeks to apply for the principal’s job at Lawrence High School.
6News video: Lawrence woman files for school board election
Wednesday, December 11, 2002
6News reports on Lawrence resident Cindy Yulich, who filed for the April school board election.
6News video: District searching for new principals
Tuesday, December 10, 2002
6News reports on the openings for principal attwo Lawrence schools.
School board election issues revived
Tuesday, December 10, 2002
Lawrence school board history may repeat itself April 1. A flashback to 1997 would reveal a school-closing and school-election scenario in some ways identical to that created by the current board.
Consultant could collect $3.9 million
Tuesday, December 10, 2002
The Lawrence school district’s facility consultant could earn as much as $3.9 million if voters approve a $59 million bond issue for school construction.
School Equity Council revived
Saturday, December 7, 2002
The Lawrence school district’s Equity Council is searching for ways to level the educational playing field for students.
Traditional chalkboards being erased from classrooms across city, nation
Saturday, December 7, 2002
Erase those memories of dusty black chalkboards that have been the mainstay of school classrooms for more than a century.
Students from area to compete in High Q
Friday, December 6, 2002
Students from area high schools will answer questions on subjects such as art, literature, history, math and science Saturday at the High Q academic competition at Washburn University.
Board supports joining school finance lawsuit
Thursday, December 5, 2002
If budget relief for public schools doesn’t arrive in the 2003 Legislature, the Lawrence school board supports filing a lawsuit to force better state financing of schools.
Facilitators to assist with salary talks
Thursday, December 5, 2002
The Lawrence school district and its teachers union consented to bringing in two facilitators to help negotiators reach agreement on a new contract.
6News video: Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence looks forward to St. Patrick's Day
Thursday, December 5, 2002
The annual parade's proceeds will go to the afterschool programs.
Sixth-grader sweeps chess championship
Wednesday, December 4, 2002
Ten-year-old Anjali Datta didn’t set out to become a champion on the international chess circuit. She just wanted to beat her older brother, Deepyaman Datta.
District expects improved test scores
Wednesday, December 4, 2002
The Lawrence school district's scores on the national Stanford 9 exam are expected to rebound from last year's across-the-board tumble.
Riverside students divided as board plans for closing
Tuesday, December 3, 2002
Riverside School will become a house divided. The Lawrence school board voted 6-1 on Monday to give preliminary approval to the split of Riverside’s students between Deerfield and Pinckney schools.
Board revamps soda contract plans
Tuesday, December 3, 2002
Lawrence High School's big-dollar contract with Coca-Cola didn't pass the Lawrence school board's taste test. On Monday, the board voted 6-1 to seek reformulation of the LHS deal, to adopt one-year contracts with Coke and Pepsi for the five other secondary schools and direct Supt. Randy Weseman to study the possibility of a districtwide contract with a soda vendor.
6News video: School board closer to deciding fate of Riverside students
Tuesday, December 3, 2002
6News reports on Monday night's school board meeting.
District wants to keep tabs on soda contracts
Monday, December 2, 2002
The Lawrence school board is uncapping the bottle on soft-drink contracts controlled by the district’s secondary principals.
Students’ published works make KU professor proud
Sunday, December 1, 2002
During his 35-year career as a historian, Bill Tuttle has written six books covering race relations, family relationships and other foundations of the changing American experience.
Bond foes put up fight
Sunday, December 1, 2002
Arly Allen is mapping a strategy to defeat the Lawrence school district's proposed $59 million bond issue.
Board to decide destination of Riverside School students
Sunday, December 1, 2002
The Lawrence school board probably will look to Interstate 70 as a boundary line for determining where to send current Riverside School students after the school is closed in May.
Lawrence school board
Sunday, December 1, 2002
Agenda highlights • 7 p.m. Monday • 110 McDonald Drive
School districts plan lawsuit on sales tax
Friday, November 29, 2002
Three school districts in Wyandotte County plan to file a lawsuit challenging the legality of Johnson County voters’ passing a quarter-cent sales tax to raise money for their public schools.
Honor Roll: McLouth Middle School
Friday, November 29, 2002
McLouth Middle School recently announced its first-quarter honor roll:
Speaker urges students to thank teachers
Wednesday, November 27, 2002
Michael Roberts is proof that it’s never too late to say thank-you to a teacher who changes your life. More than 40 years after the fact, Roberts, now headmaster at Topeka Collegiate School, made that telephone call.
Schools face librarian shortage
Tuesday, November 26, 2002
Susan Peterson will be part of a wave of school librarians calling it quits over the next dozen years. “I’d like to retire in the next five to 10 years,” said Peterson, Hillcrest School’s library media specialist and a 30-year veteran of elementary libraries in the Lawrence district.
Musicians put a spring in students’ steps, hearts
Monday, November 25, 2002
Stuart Levine and his musical collaborators from the Lawrence Woodwind Quintet toot on a shower hose, shell, ram’s horn and five conventional instruments to excite the imaginations of elementary students.
Sixth-graders struggling in math to take supplemental class in junior high
Monday, November 25, 2002
Lawrence sixth-graders struggling in math will be told to take a new supplemental course on the subject when they enter junior high, district officials say.
Teacher says students learn about rights
Sunday, November 24, 2002
An individual’s constitutional rights during police searches and interrogation are taught to high school students - and not just by teachers, said Paul Stuewe, Lawrence High School political science and history teacher.
Bookworms put written word on parade
Friday, November 22, 2002
Lupita Elias, looking more like a plant than a second-grader in her sunflower costume, led Thursday's annual Books on Parade extravaganza at Sunflower School. The grand marshal gave out high-fives to hundreds of fellow students lining the parade route. And she let it be known her favorite book was "Arthur Meets the President."
6News video: Lawrence students put books on parade
Friday, November 22, 2002
The elementary students show their joy for reading with floats and posters.
6News video: One school's closing is certain
Friday, November 22, 2002
Riverside's fate is sealed, even if an upcoming school bond issue passes.
Board proceeds on Riverside closing
Friday, November 22, 2002
The Lawrence school board probably will vote Dec. 2 to close Riverside School at the end of the school year.
Inquisitive third-graders grill Lawrence mayor, policeman
Thursday, November 21, 2002
East Heights School students asked questions Wednesday of Mayor Sue Hack and police officer Matt Sarna that ran from lighthearted to heartbreaking.
Your dream vacation? What should be done to people who try to sell drugs to children? Favorite sport? How can students make Lawrence a better city? Your age? What should kids do if threatened with a weapon?
6News video: Lawrence mayor hears students' concerns
Thursday, November 21, 2002
Mayor Sue Hack met with third graders at East Heights Elementary.
Board forwards bond proposal
Tuesday, November 19, 2002
A nearly unanimous Lawrence school board agreed Monday to seek voter approval in April of a record $59 million bond issue for school construction and renovation.
Honor roll - Bishop Seabury Academy
Tuesday, November 19, 2002
Bishop Seabury Academy announces its first-quarter honor roll students. Honor roll students must have a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher.
Law forces schools to assist military
Sunday, November 17, 2002
His letter probably surprised - and alarmed - many of the parents who received it. But Tonganoxie High School Principal Mike Bogart thought they should know.
Time ripe to borrow for schools, experts say
Sunday, November 17, 2002
This may be the best time since John F. Kennedy occupied the White House to borrow millions of dollars to upgrade Lawrence school buildings.
Bond issue spending likely cut, Weseman says
Sunday, November 17, 2002
Supt. Randy Weseman said the Lawrence school board would probably trim bond-issue spending proposals to less than $63.3 million.
Lawrence School Board
Sunday, November 17, 2002
Agenda highlights • 7 p.m. Monday • 110 McDonald Drive
6News video: More people support consolidation of schools
Friday, November 15, 2002
After weeks of public meetings, several long-time opponents of consolidation are starting to change their minds.
Consolidation critic changes perspective
Friday, November 15, 2002
One of Lawrence’s most relentless critics of elementary school consolidation Thursday reversed course by endorsing closure of East Heights School. Vicki Scott, an East Heights parent and a special-education paraprofessional at the school, used the last of six public forums on the district’s facilities planning study to disclose her change of heart.
Schools can't look to city for salvation
Thursday, November 14, 2002
The Lawrence City Commission won't play the role of white knight to save three elementary schools slated for closure.
Educator named master teacher
Thursday, November 14, 2002
Teacher Pam Williams marched sixth-graders Wednesday to the Broken Arrow School gym for what promised to be a routine assembly.
Teachers union lodges grievance
Thursday, November 14, 2002
The Lawrence teachers' union is accusing the school board of unfair labor practices for forcing high school English faculty to teach a full class schedule.
Teacher condemns portables
Wednesday, November 13, 2002
Teacher Diane McGee said Tuesday that reliance on portable classrooms at Southwest Junior High School placed students in jeopardy.
Lawrence students attend news conference
Wednesday, November 13, 2002
Alexandra Ewy, a first-grader at Sunflower School, held up a sign that simply stated: 'Read to Me.'
6News video: Concerns increase as possible bond vote nears
Wednesday, November 13, 2002
6News reports on Tuesday night's school board meeting.
April election will decide bond, board
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
The Lawrence school board Monday pressed ahead with plans to seek voter approval in April for a bond issue of about $60 million for school construction and closure of three elementary schools.
Board members ponder re-election
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
The next Lawrence school board election will be the public’s first chance at the ballot box to give thumbs up or down to the current board’s endorsement of closing some neighborhood schools while floating a $60 million bond issue.
Commission eyes Grant School for storage space
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
Douglas County officials are looking to give Grant School new life, both as a township meeting hall and storage depot for old documents.
6News video: Commissioners discussing plans for Grant school
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
6News reports on some of the options being considered by county commissioners for Grant school.
6News video: Study session aimed at preparing for possible bond vote
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
6News reports on Monday night's school board study session.
Questions abound about district plans
Sunday, November 10, 2002
Stephen Roberts makes use of every opportunity to quiz the Lawrence school board on its plans for upgrading school buildings and consolidating elementary schools.
At-risk students get new classroom
Saturday, November 9, 2002
Dedication of the Lawrence school district’s sixth preschool classroom Friday brought smiles to the face of students and educators.
5% raises in district unlikely in '03 - '04
Friday, November 8, 2002
Lawrence school district employees shouldn’t expect another 5 percent increase in salary and benefits in 2003-2004, the school board president says. But the leader of the Lawrence teachers union said Thursday that he wasn’t ready to give up on another good pay raise.
6News video: School bond issue may become a public vote
Friday, November 8, 2002
Some members of the community have spoken out in support for school closings.
Forum draws consolidation foes
Friday, November 8, 2002
East Heights School teacher Adela Solis said Thursday that her students’ anxiety about possible closure of their school was escalating to unhealthy levels.
West principal announces his retirement
Friday, November 8, 2002
West Junior High School’s principal of 18 years Thursday revealed plans to retire from the Lawrence district at the end of the school year.
Lawrence district raises possibility of staff furloughs
Thursday, November 7, 2002
Lawrence school officials were expecting a rainy day, not a deluge, when they prepared a $500,000 reserve to cope with a possible 1 percent state budget cut. But with the state budget gap for the current spending year now pegged around $275 million and the governor-elect just starting to figure out the gravity of the state's fiscal problems, district officials are talking about layoffs and furloughs when the rainy-day reserve is exhausted.
Kids agree, elect Sebelius
Wednesday, November 6, 2002
It was Kathleen Sebelius for governor in a landslide Tuesday, with U.S. House members Jim Ryun and Dennis Moore winning re-election in the mock election held by Kids Voting of Douglas County.
School closure advocate speaks
Wednesday, November 6, 2002
Noelle Fox came to South Junior High School to speak on behalf of a "silent majority" in Lawrence who support closing elementary schools.
6News video: Turnout at facilities meeting not affected by election day
Wednesday, November 6, 2002
6News reports on Tuesday night's public facilities meeting held at South Junior High.
Parents argue to save schools
Tuesday, November 5, 2002
Cordley and Centennial school parents took advantage of a light school board agenda Monday evening to argue for the preservation of their respective schools.
Honor Roll
Monday, November 4, 2002
Baldwin High School announces its honor roll for the first quarter of the 2002-2003 school year.
Increasing costs strain budget
Sunday, November 3, 2002
The Lawrence school district is being hit with steep increases in fixed costs even as the state is cutting financial support of public schools.
Lawrence school board
Sunday, November 3, 2002
Agenda highlights 7 p.m. Monday 110 McDonald Drive
Kids Voting takes students to polls
Saturday, November 2, 2002
Ninth-grader Callee Souders says neither major-party candidate for Kansas governor deserves to be elected.
6News video: Local students talk about school closings
Friday, November 1, 2002
Students at Centennial and Riverside elementary schools are concerned about the prospect of their schools closing.
District shuns call for Halloween policy
Thursday, October 31, 2002
Be careful today at Pinckney School: Akina Kashiwaya will be lurking in the shadows.
Facilities planning called 'flawed'
Wednesday, October 30, 2002
A former Lawrence school board president said the district's process of planning school closures and a bond issue for school construction was flawed.
Kids Voting program aims to add fun at polls
Tuesday, October 29, 2002
Most people eligible to vote in the United States don't bother anymore. That has democracy experts fretting about the health of self-government here. Some have looked to Costa Rica for an example of how to conduct an election that attracts heavy participation.
District creates vision for LAHS
Sunday, October 27, 2002
Mike Holladay says his two years at Lawrence Alternative High School have kept him from being a troubling statistic. "I was so far behind at Free State High School that I was going to drop out," he said.
Principals urge support for changes
Sunday, October 27, 2002
All 18 Lawrence elementary school principals even three at schools earmarked for closure signed a letter asking parents to support changes in district facilities.
Public weighs in on school plans
Thursday, October 24, 2002
Lawrence High School graduate Joe Patterson has supported public school bond issues in Lawrence for nearly half a century. But his string may end soon.
6News video: School closings draw public comment
Thursday, October 24, 2002
Several residents fear that no one on the school board is listening to them.
District comes up short for autistic student
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
You could see the sadness in Ali Gotte's eyes, which were often downcast when she arrived at South Junior High School in the mornings. You could hear the pain in her screams that leaked from the closet-size room at South where she was regularly confined during the day.
Sister wishes others could see Ali as she does
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
I have an autistic sister, and her name is Ali. You may ask, "What is autism?" It is very hard to explain. Think of it this way. Autism is when you have a "point A" and "point C" in the brain, but no "point B" to connect things.
Exchange leaves youths less than impressed with candidates
Wednesday, October 23, 2002
Kansas' two leading gubernatorial candidates still have quite a sales job ahead of them if they want to win next month's election, students in a Lawrence High School political science class said.
Laidlaw branch in Lawrence honored as company's safest
Friday, October 18, 2002
Lawrence public school children are in good hands when they step on a school bus. The Laidlaw Transit branch serving the Lawrence district has been named the safest in the nation among more than 400 Laidlaw stations that collectively carry 2.4 million children daily.
LHS readies for principal search
Sunday, October 13, 2002
Dick Patterson is ready to give up the reins at Lawrence High School. The outgoing LHS principal already completed his final horseback ride at the front of the high school's Homecoming parade.
Riverside council feels ignored
Saturday, October 12, 2002
Members of the site council at Riverside School, an elementary school earmarked for closure by the Lawrence school board, are feeling slighted.
Bond issue plans move forward
Thursday, October 10, 2002
The Lawrence school board today moves ahead with planning what could become a $50 million bond issue for school building improvements. "I feel very comfortable going to the community with something like that," Scott Morgan, board president, said in an interview Wednesday.
Centennial supporters object to closing
Tuesday, October 8, 2002
Supporters of Centennial School appealed Monday to the men and women who soon may close the school. "It is clear that when it comes to measurable education results, the community school of Centennial works well," Brent Lamb told the Lawrence school board.
Multimillion-dollar fixes posed for high schools
Wednesday, October 2, 2002
As much as $32 million could be spent to rebuild classrooms and sports facilities for high school students in the Lawrence district, according to proposals to be considered today by school board members.
6News video report: Board shifts focus to high schools
Wednesday, October 2, 2002
6News reports on the Lawrence School Board meeting that will be held to discuss the options available to update the two Lawrence high schools.
Teacher tickled ivories, touched hearts
Tuesday, October 1, 2002
Juanita Strait's ear for music was well-known in Lawrence for nearly 60 years. She was a gifted pianist, piano teacher and choir director.
Schools strictly enforcing lunch card rules
Monday, September 30, 2002
Susie Santee says toughened enforcement of student ID requirements in all Lawrence secondary school cafeterias is a bunch of bologna. She said she concluded that after her son, Alex, was apparently denied a meal at West Junior High School because he left his plastic debit card for school meals at home.
NAACP honors former Lawrence teacher
Sunday, September 29, 2002
The NAACP branch of Kansas City, Kan., honored a former Lawrence resident Friday at its annual Freedom Fund Banquet at the Reardon Center. Jesse Milan, Kansas City, Kan., won the Robert E. Powell Civil Rights Award.
City asked to weigh in on schools
Wednesday, September 25, 2002
Neighborhood advocates on Tuesday asked the Lawrence City Commission to become involved in the school district facilities study that may lead to the closing of several schools.
Program wants all ages to vote
Wednesday, September 25, 2002
Katie Woung is part of a trickle-up movement to improve electoral politics. "It's important young people discover the power that comes with voting," said Woung, a Lawrence High School junior. "Our hope is parents will pick up on what their kids are involved in."
Board sets transfer deadlines
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
A new student-transfer policy that emerged at Mondays Lawrence school board meeting allows for movement of children among schools but sets deadlines that should make management of the system easier for district staff.
School Briefs
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
Errors, omissions insurance policy chosen
Baum firm hired to prepare for bond issue
LHS inducts 4 into Hall of Honor
Monday, September 23, 2002
When the 1,300 students at Lawrence High School head to class this morning, four new faces will look down upon them from the row of portraits wrapping around the school's commons area.
Lawrence enrollment drops again
Saturday, September 21, 2002
The official enrollment report Friday confirmed the worst for Lawrence public schools. Headcount in the district's elementary and secondary schools is down 177 students from last year, meaning the district must swallow every penny of a projected $664,000 reduction this year in state aid.
Grant to help children's programs
Thursday, September 19, 2002
A three-year federal grant of about $8.5 million will boost Lawrence programs designed to help children avoid drugs and violence, officials said Wednesday.
Thanks to the grant, Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center and the Lawrence public school district will lead a new effort promoting healthy child development, violence prevention and drug-free living among students in preschool through high school.
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Congressional Briefing: Moore won't explain Armenian genocide 'flip-flop'
And more from Washington D.C.
How high do you predict gas prices will get this summer?
"I’ll guess $3.40 around here. Things seem tenuous with the oil supply, so I can see it getting that high. I hope not, but I can see it happening."
— Steve Bradt, brewer, Lawrence
