Southwest is looking for new Nesters! Information about the 2025-26 preschool program at Southwest is below. Families that are residents of the Lawson School District and have a child(ren) who will be three before August 1, 2025 are eligible. Interested families should use the link or the QR code on the flyer to register for a screening.
https://bit.ly/3Zy0jG2?r=qr
(A limited number of spots are available - Screening does not guarantee acceptance - The District will use the student screening and other evaluation processes to determine acceptance.)
Please contact Southwest Elementary's office (816) 580-7272 if you have any questions.
Alternate Bus Routes will be in effect all week. Those impacted riders have been informed of alternative plans by their bus driver or the Durham-Lawson Transportation Director.
📢 Breaking News from Lawson School District: Day 4 of Snowy Shenanigans looks unavoidable! 🌨️ - No School Today, Friday (1-10-25)
Attention students, parents, and staff: Due to the continued efforts of Mother Nature to outdo herself, Lawson School District is calling its 4th consecutive snow day! At this point, we’re starting to wonder if the snow has hired its own personal bodyguard to keep us home.
🎿 Suggested Activities for Today:
Build an igloo and name it "Lawson Academy of Snow Studies."
Teach your pets to sled. Bonus points if they learn to mush.
Create a snowman that looks like your favorite teacher – but remember, flattery gets you extra credit!
Don’t forget to keep warm, stay safe, and maybe, just maybe, take a moment to think about that late homework you still haven't turned in for 1st semester. (It's good that your semester grades have not been finalized yet.)
Stay tuned for Monday's exciting update, which may or may not include us officially renaming January to "Snowvember."
See you… eventually!
-Lawson School District 🛷❄️
With continued safety concerns regarding our most rural bus routes, there will be NO SCHOOL on Thursday, 1-9-25.
Due to inclement weather, there is NO SCHOOL tomorrow, Wednesday (1-8-25).
Inclement Weather / School Cancelation - UPDATE 1-5-25
Dear Cardinals,
As anticipated, the winter storm has created significant challenges across our region. To ensure everyone’s safety and a smooth start to the second semester of the 2024–2025 school year, we have adjusted our schedule as follows:
Updated Schedule
• Monday, January 6, 2025: All campuses and facilities will remain closed.
• Tuesday, January 7, 2025: Staff in-service day (rescheduled from January 6).
• Wednesday, January 8, 2025: Students return to school (rescheduled from January 7).
These adjustments prioritize the well-being of our students and staff while allowing adequate time to prepare for a successful start to the semester.
We are optimistic that weather and road conditions will improve by midweek, but we will monitor the situation closely. Decisions regarding team practices on Monday and Tuesday will be made as more information becomes available.
Our goal is to ensure the safety of all students and staff while keeping families informed to help with planning. Please stay tuned to district communications for further updates.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through this together.
Dr. Stephenson
Lawson School Campuses and Facilities will be closed to all access beginning at 5pm 1/4/25. They will remain closed until the winter storm has passed, and we can clear parking lots and sidewalks for safe passage. We will share additional information about our return to school once we have more information on road conditions.
It‘s always a great day to be a Cardinal...but it’s better WHEN YOU’re HERE!!!
https://www.lawsoncardinals.org/page/employment-page
Holiday Message from Dr. Stephenson
Dear Lawson Community,
As we close in on the final bell to ring for the dismissal of our Cardinals in 2024 and head off our separate ways for the holiday break, I want to express heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributes to the success of our schools. To our parents, thank you for your continued support and partnership in your children's education. To our teachers and staff, your dedication to meeting the needs of students is deeply appreciated.
The holiday season is a special time to reflect on our community's strength, shared commitment, and accepted responsibility in nurturing and growing our students. May this break allow us to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones.
Thank you for all you do to make Lawson an exceptional place to learn and grow.
Dr. Stephenson
Superintendent
Lawson R-XIV School District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 20, 2024
Lawson Board of Education Announces Lisa Glenn as New Activities Director
LAWSON, MO—The Lawson Board of Education proudly announces that Lisa Glenn will become the new Activities Director for the Lawson R-XIV School District in August 2025.
With over 25 years of dedicated service to the district as an educator, coach, and mentor, Glenn brings unparalleled experience and a passion for student development to this vital leadership role.
"Lisa Glenn "embodies the values of excellence, integrity, and commitment that define Lawson R-XIV," said Superintendent Stephenson. "Her decades of "service to our students, coaches, and community make her uniquely qualified to lead and enhance our athletics and activities programs."
Coach Glenn's tenure includes:
• Teaching: Over 20 years as a middle school computer teacher and three years as a high school business teacher.
• Coaching: 25 years as the Varsity Girls' Basketball Coach, including numerous conference and district championships, and three years coaching Varsity Volleyball.
• Leadership Roles: FBLA Adviser, Career Day Organizer, and Hoops for Hope charity event creator.
In addition to her extensive teaching and coaching background, Coach Glenn is a certified volleyball official who regularly officiates district and sectional competitions. She also serves in leadership roles with the Greater Kansas City Basketball Coaches Association and the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association.
Coach Glenn is a lifelong Lawson Cardinal and alumna of Lawson High School. "I am deeply honored to be given the opportunity to serve as our district's Activities Director," said Glenn. As someone who "has called Lawson home my entire life, I am passionate about supporting our student-athletes, mentoring our coaches, and continuing the proud tradition of excellence in Lawson athletics and activities."
Coach Glenn's vision for the future of Lawson activities includes fostering a culture of teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth for all students. Her collaborative leadership style will prioritize building strong relationships with staff, students, and families.
Please join us in welcoming her to this exciting new role. #WeAreLawson
Lawson Board of Education shines a December Spotlight on the Tremendous Work of Special Education Teachers, Paraprofessionals, and Student Services Director
The Lawson Board of Education is proud to shine a "Board Spotlight" on the incredible dedication and tireless efforts of our special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and Student Services Director. These individuals play a vital role in shaping our students' educational journeys, ensuring that every learner is supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Our December Spotlight included special education teachers who bring unmatched expertise, creativity, and compassion to their classrooms daily. Our paraprofessionals, for their invaluable partnership in the educational process, providing hands-on support, encouragement, and personalized attention, giving students the tools to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
The Board also recognized the leadership of our Student Services Director, Mr. Tyson Miller. Mr. Miller has helped our team excel in providing services for the diverse needs of our student population. In addition, the Board celebrated the recent 100% score received on our special education tiered monitoring review. This intense review process examines all aspects of our Special Education programs and services to ensure we, as a school system, provide the needed and required services to our student population.
"The work of our special education professionals cannot be overstated," said Lawson Superintendent Dr. Stephenon. "Their compassion and dedication are a testament to the power of education to transform lives. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our students and their families."
As we spotlight our fantastic team in the Lawson School District, we reaffirm our commitment to providing the resources, training, and support these professionals need to continue their impactful work. #WeAreLawson
Reminder that we will be observing winter break beginning Monday, December 23rd. Wishing our Cardinal families a happy holidays and wonderful new year!
Progress is happening in our High School Robotics Lab. The district recently installed new flooring to allow for the operation of the LHS FRC Robotics Team "The Law" competitive robot for practice purposes in preparation for their upcoming Spring 2025 Competitions. #WeAreLawson
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has released the statewide Annual Performance Reports (APRs) for the 2023-24 school year. These reports showcase the progress our school district and individual buildings are making in alignment with the rigorous standards and indicators outlined in the sixth version of the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP 6).
We are thrilled to announce outstanding results in the district's 2023-24 APR! Our district achieved an impressive 8.2% growth in its APR score, earning an overall score of 83.9%. This milestone reflects the collective dedication of our students, educators, and leadership in advancing educational excellence.
Highlights include outperforming state averages in 14 of 17 assessed academic areas and achieving an extraordinary 28.45% growth in student performance. Additionally, our students excelled on the ACT, surpassing the state average for the third consecutive year. With 67.7% of graduating seniors taking the ACT, this achievement underscores our district’s ongoing commitment to academic rigor.
We are also proud of our progress in fostering a culture of regular attendance. The district’s improved proportional attendance rate demonstrates our focus on engaging students and reinforcing the importance of consistent school participation.
While these results are a source of pride, they also serve as motivation to continue advancing. Our commitment to preparing students for an ever-changing world remains steadfast as we build on these accomplishments and strive for even greater success in the years ahead.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lawson Board of Education Announces Resignations and Retirements
Lawson, MO—The Lawson R-XIV Board of Education has announced the upcoming resignations and retirements of four valued staff members, effective at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. These transitions mark significant changes for the district and reflect the dedication and service of these educators to the Lawson School Community.
Resignations:
Mrs. Ida Kemper, Assistant Principal at SW Elementary since August 2023, has announced her decision to leave education. Mrs. Kemper plans to focus on her family’s growing real estate and farming ventures and to dedicate more time to her children’s busy schedules.
Mr. Kevin Keeton, Assistant Principal at Lawson Middle School and District Activities Director since August 2023, is transitioning back to teaching and coaching. He plans to relocate closer to his home in Platte City to be more available for his family.
"We are grateful for Mrs. Kemper and Mr. Keeton's contributions during their time with us," said Superintendent Dr. Michael Stephenson. "While their departures are a loss, we fully support their decisions and wish them the very best in their future endeavors."
Retirements:
Mrs. Gwen Gilmore, High School English Teacher, is retiring after 24 years in the Lawson School District and 29 years in education. In her retirement letter, Mrs. Gilmore expressed her gratitude for the opportunities and support she received throughout her career, both as an educator and parent in the district.
Mrs. Kristi Dreesen, Middle School English Teacher, will retire after 23 years in the district and 30 years in education. Mrs. Dreesen shared her appreciation for the cherished memories and relationships built during her tenure, calling her time in Lawson a "truly rewarding experience."
"Mrs. Gilmore and Mrs. Dreesen have each had remarkable careers, impacting countless students and colleagues along the way," said Board President Rob Kellam. "Their passion, dedication, and leadership will leave a lasting legacy in the Lawson School Community."
The district acknowledges the significant contributions of these individuals and wishes them success in their next chapters. As a community, Lawson remains committed to continuing its tradition of excellence in education by recruiting dedicated and talented professionals to fill these roles. You can learn more about the employment opportunities in the Lawson School District by viewing our employment page: https://www.lawsoncardinals.org/page/employment-page
The Importance of School Attendance Before Winter Break
Dear Cardinal Families,
As we approach the festive holiday season, we want to emphasize how vital it is for students to be present and engaged in the three weeks leading up to winter break. These weeks are filled with important learning activities, projects, and opportunities for your child to build their knowledge and skills.
Every school day counts. Regular attendance not only helps students stay on track academically but also ensures they don’t miss out on collaborative classroom experiences and social connections that contribute to their growth. Missing even a few days can make it harder for your child to keep up and fully participate in lessons designed to prepare them for the upcoming semester.
We understand that this time of year can be busy with family commitments and travel plans. If you anticipate any absences, please inform your child’s teacher or the school office as soon as possible so we can work with you to support your student’s learning.
Thank you for your partnership in making every day count for our students. Together, we can ensure they end the year strong and ready for what’s ahead.
Warm regards,
Dr. Stephenson
Dear Lawson School Community,
As Thanksgiving approaches, it is my privilege to express appreciation for the unwavering dedication of our school administrators, teachers, staff, and families. We are grateful for the remarkable spirit and commitment that define our Lawson Schools. This season invites us to pause and reflect on the many reasons we are thankful, and our community stands out as a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration, care, and commitment.
The energy and enthusiasm that fill our classrooms, the unwavering dedication of those who teach and support, and the trust and encouragement from families make Lawson an extraordinary place. Together, we have created a strong foundation rooted in Proud Traditions and driven by the Endless Possibilities that lie ahead.
This Thanksgiving, let us celebrate how far we’ve come, appreciate the connections that unite us, and embrace the bright future we continue to build together. Thank you for being an integral part of our community and for all you do to support our Lawson community
We are wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and meaningful Thanksgiving.
With gratitude,
Dr. Stephenson
