Dear Lawrence Public Schools community,
We are pleased to reach out to you today with an important update on our district governance work.
As Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Commissioner Pedro Martinez shared with all of you this winter, the LPS governance model has shifted from a state-appointed receivership board to an individual receiver. The Superintendent continues to fulfill the traditional responsibilities of that role and report to the Receiver, who is overseeing implementation of the turnaround plan and guiding the process of preparing the new School Committee to eventually lead the district.
We began that process last month with two full days of training attended by LPS leadership and School Committee members. Last evening, the School Committee held its first meeting since inauguration, during which members discussed and provided input on the Receiver’s multiphase Capacity Building Plan for a return to local control. You can find that plan at the LPS website here, and it will be updated as any refinements are made based on our work together.
We recognize there is still much to do, but are excited to be off to a positive, collaborative start. We look forward to continued partnership in the interests of all LPS students, families and staff, and providing additional updates throughout.
Thank you,
Lauren Woo, Ed.D.
Receiver, Lawrence Public Schools
Deputy Commissioner, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Ralph Carrero
Superintendent, Lawrence Public Schools
