photo by: Meeting screenshot/Lawrence school board
Lawrence school board President Kelly Jones, left, reads a portion of the purpose for the board's new equity policy during a meeting on Monday, May 10, 2021. The board approved the policy with a 6-0 vote.
The Lawrence school board now has an equity policy that aims to address educational disparities in the school district.
During a meeting on Monday, the board approved an amended policy with a 6-0 vote. Board member Paula Smith was absent from the meeting.
Board President Kelly Jones said the amendments included using more direct language by changing some wording from “should” to “will,” which was suggested by a student leader. It also includes changes to the Continuous Improvement section of the policy, amending language to allow outside programs — such as Parents of Color Advisory Committee, Equity Advisory Council, and Native American Student Services — to participate in the district’s work.