Lawrence Township is the fifth-largest school district in Indiana, educating just under 17,000 students across all school levels. The district has celebrated an impressive 95% graduation rate and has not only maintained its enrollment but has also grown it with no racial disparity in its graduation data.
“We take great pride in the accomplishments of our students,” says Dr. Dana Altemeyer, the director of communications for the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township (MSDLT). “It is our responsibility to educate and provide a graduation pathway to every student, regardless of circumstances. We take that charge seriously and recognize that a high-quality public education will benefit students throughout their lives.”
The district is committed to providing a first-class education to all students, in first-class facilities. Over the past decade, well over $400 million have been invested in capital projects across the district. However, with the extensive needs of two large high schools, in 2019 the MSDLT took a significant step by pursuing its first-ever capital referendum aimed at upgrading key educational facilities. The vast majority of the funds were used to update Lawrence Central and Lawrence North high schools.
On November 5, 2019, voters showed their strong support for referendum, totaling $230 million, with 67% voting yes. The funds from the referendum have enabled extensive renovations at both high schools. Prior to these updates, the last major renovations occurred 31 years ago at Lawrence Central and 48 years ago at Lawrence North.
Altemeyer highlighted the importance of these updates, noting “Lawrence North hadn’t been renovated since 1976, and the science lab reflected as much. When we talked to the community about the need for this project, we showed them pictures of the biology room designed and built in the 1970s. Students deserve facilities that reflect the world in which we live today, not relics of the past.”
Altemeyer explained that students, teachers, staff and administration were all actively involved in the design process. “During the design phase, a feasibility study was done that included input from students and staff at both high schools,” she says. “Those students have since graduated, but the district wanted their perspectives on what they wanted to see in a high school.”
With the community’s support behind them, the MSDLT embarked on a significant renovation project aimed at creating the best-possible learning environment. These multifaceted renovations targeted internal issues like the replacement of HVAC systems, mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems, as well as external improvements such as new roofs, kitchen facilities, a new 50-meter pool for each high school, resurfaced parking lots and more. The addition of state-of-the-art security features is also an area of focus, providing additional security features to the entire campus of both schools.
For the students, these updates mean learning in updated and flexible classrooms, and in modernized labs and multipurpose spaces. The changes have resulted in bright, more open spaces, invitational to all who enter, fostering a better educational experience.
“With the overwhelming support of the community, we have completely transformed our high schools to reflect 21st century teaching and learning, and to serve as a beacon in our community,” says Dr. Shawn A. Smith, superintendent of schools. “This community’s investment in public education is an investment in the future, and I am excited to see the impact these facilities will continue to have for years to come.”
[Text Wrapping Break]”Undergoing these renovations at Lawrence North has been a transformative process for our entire school community,” says Brett Crousore, principal at Lawrence North. “It’s not just about updating the facilities, but creating an environment where our students feel inspired and supported. By providing students and staff with enhanced spaces, we have expanded educational opportunities. Our students take pride in their school, and this project strengthens our tradition of excellence, ensuring continued success for years to come.”
“The design of the new spaces prioritizes open classrooms and natural light, noting we did this because of the correlation between students’ well-being and mental health with natural light,” says Altemeyer.
Student satisfaction and well-being was a driving force behind these renovation projects, and it appears the objective was met. “The students love it,” Altemeyer says. “They love the new buildings. They’re proud of their schools. When you walk into a fresh, clean, invitational space, you feel different about where you are. It does impact your attitude and your outlook. I think they take more pride in their schools now – admiring and respecting their school space, and engaging in school pride. It’s truly a night-and-day experience of being at school.”
These sentiments are shared by the principal at Lawrence Central, Franklyn Bush, who echoes the students’ satisfaction. “Undergoing this renovation has truly transformed our high school into the pride of 56th Street,” Bush says. “Not only have we updated outdated facilities, but we’ve also created modern spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and a sense of pride among students and staff. These improvements directly enhance student engagement, boost morale and prepare our students for the demands of the future. The renovation has been an investment in both our students’ success and the community as a whole.”
With the multiyear project coming to a close, the schools will have a community open house on October 6 at Lawrence Central High School. The event will include a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony with school leaders and community figures. Tours of the renovated spaces will also be given, allowing the community to see the results of their support. “We are thrilled to share these completed, beautiful learning spaces with our community,” says Board President Wendy Muston. “These renovations were a labor of love and reflect our commitment to providing the best possible learning and teaching spaces for both students and staff.”
Overall, this five-year undertaking has been a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and community support. These improvements will help foster generations of skilled and curious learners and workers, and the greater Lawrence Township community will benefit for decades to come.
