2026–27 Back-to-School Report | Board Meeting Clip | July 27, 2026

The Lawrence Public Schools board meeting on July 27, 2026, focused primarily on preparations for the upcoming 2026-27 school year. Key procurement-related updates included progress on transportation services with Durham School Services, highlighting over 50% student registration and the introduction of a $1,000 signing bonus for bus attendants to ensure full staffing by day one. Facilities improvements were also discussed, including playground renovations, athletic facility upgrades at Free State and Lawrence High Schools, and new lighting installations. Additionally, the district is enhancing payment options for parents by accepting more credit card payments online to streamline fee collection. The meeting also covered the rollout of new curricula and digital platforms, staff hiring and training, and upcoming budget presentations and hearings scheduled for late August and September.