April 2025 Board Spotlight - Celebrating Sophia Cook – 2nd Place Winner in the Missouri Peace Officers Association Essay Contest
As part of our April Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized Sophia Cook, an exceptional middle school student who earned 2nd place in the Missouri Peace Officers Association Essay Contest—a prestigious statewide competition.
Sophia's essay, which addressed three societal issues she believes are facing the youth of Missouri, was selected 2nd out of 152 essays submitted by students representing 32 school districts across the state. Her writing demonstrated not only impressive skill and clarity but also a deep awareness of the challenges impacting her generation and a passion for positive change.
Sophia’s voice stood out as thoughtful, courageous, and solutions-driven—qualities that reflect the heart of both strong writing and strong leadership. We are incredibly proud of her for this achievement and the meaningful perspective she brought to this statewide platform.
👏 Please join us in congratulating Sophia Cook on this outstanding accomplishment!
🌟 April 2025 Board of Education Spotlight 🌟
Celebrating Our FCCLA State Qualifiers
As part of our April Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized the outstanding accomplishments of students from both our Middle School and High School FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) chapters. These remarkable students earned the opportunity to compete at the FCCLA State Leadership Conference in March 2025, showcasing leadership, creativity, and a deep commitment to their futures, families, and communities.
🎓 Middle School State Qualifiers
These students represented our district with pride and excellence at the state level, participating in competitive events that developed their communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
River Coffman,
Chasyn Campbell
Braxton Vosika
Janie Braune
Joanna Wood
Taylen Vaughn
Kylie Barker
Avery McPherson
Haley McCrary
🎓 High School State Qualifiers
Our high school FCCLA students also demonstrated exceptional drive and professionalism as they competed in advanced leadership and career-focused events.
Kadance James - National Qualifier
Allison Hochwender - National Qualifer
Bailey Payne
Allison Koeberl
Becca Lafferty
Benjamin Mayne
Adi Enyeart
Emily Whitworth
Teddy Thomas
Caitlyn Cline
Ella Ripley
We commend each of these students for their achievements and thank our dedicated FCCLA advisors for the time, energy, and heart they invest in guiding these future leaders. Their success reflects the strength of our district’s commitment to personal growth, leadership, and real-world learning.
👏 Congratulations to all of our FCCLA students—you make our district proud! 🌟
Lawson R-XIV School District Announces New Board Member and Reorganized Board Leadership
Lawson, MO – April 16, 2025 – The Lawson R-XIV School District is pleased to announce the swearing-in of a new member to the Board of Education, as well as the reorganization of board leadership for the 2025–2026 term.
At the reorganizational meeting held on Wednesday, April 16, Mrs. Amber Brice was officially sworn in as the newest member of the Lawson R-XIV Board of Education. Also sworn in was returning board member Mr. Rob Kellam.
As part of the annual reorganization process, the Board of Education elected the following members to serve in leadership roles for the upcoming term:
*President: Mr. Rob Kellam
*Vice President: Mrs. Ashley Sullard
*Secretary: Mrs. Kayla Anderson
*Treasurer: Mrs. Sharon Joy
Dr. Stephenson, Superintendent of Schools, expressed appreciation for both the outgoing board member, Mr. Dwayne Peoples, and the incoming members, stating:
“We are grateful for the service of all who dedicate their time to the governance of our district. As we welcome new leadership, we remain focused on our mission of preparing students for lifelong learning, achievement, and citizenship by providing outstanding educational opportunities for every student in the Lawson R-XIV School District.”
The district looks forward to a productive and successful year under the guidance of the newly organized board. The Lawson Board of Education meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Lawson High Library Media Center.
Lawson R-XIV School District Recognizes Dwayne Peoples for His Dedicated Service
Lawson, MO – April 16, 2025 – The Lawson R-XIV School District proudly recognizes and expresses its sincere appreciation to Mr. Dwayne Peoples for his years of service as a valued member of the Lawson R-XIV School Board.
Mr. Peoples has been an integral part of the board, contributing his time, leadership, and steadfast commitment to the students, staff, and families of the Lawson community. His service reflects a deep passion for public education and a tireless dedication to the success and well-being of every student in the district.
Throughout his tenure, Mr. Peoples played a key role in numerous district initiatives and decisions, including the approval of expanding the district's career and technical programming to include Agricultural Education and FFA, as well as the creation and expansion of the early childhood preschool program. These are just two examples of how Mr. Peoples has positively impacted the educational experience in Lawson. His thoughtful approach, collaborative spirit, and unwavering focus on student achievement have left a lasting impression on the district.
Dr. Stephenson, Superintendent of Schools, shared, "Dwayne has been a strong advocate for students and staff alike. His leadership and service have helped shape the direction of our district, and his legacy will continue to influence our schools for years to come."
The Lawson R-XIV School District is grateful for Mr. Peoples' years of commitment and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.
Generation: Vampire
Generation: Vampire
April 24, 25, 26 - Doors open at 7, show starts at 7:30
Students $3, Public $5
High school is a pain in the neck. It can really make you feel like a zombie. Even more than usual, when a new girl and her friends move to town and start causing trouble. When a tight group of friends has one of them sucked into this bad crew they think it’s bad news, but they don’t know how bad. This new girl, she’s a vampire! It’s up to Mary and her friends to save Vanessa from the clutches of a 1000-year-old vamp and her minions of darkness. It’s a comedy, action, horror adventure that will have you screaming.
Written and Directed by Matthew Sanchez
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - High School Teachers Attend Real World Learning Summit
Lawson High School Teachers Attend Real World Learning Summit in Kansas City, representing their school community at the Summit, which was held in Kansas City on Thursday, April 10.
The Real World Learning Summit is a regional gathering of educators, administrators, business leaders, and community partners focused on transforming education through real-world experiences. The Summit aims to align classroom instruction with the skills, knowledge, and mindsets students need to succeed in college, career, and life.
Those participating in the event and pictured L/R, Dr. Michael Stephenson - Superintendent of Schools, Mrs. Katie Martin - Family and Consumer Sciences, Ms. Anna Triplett - Agricultural Education, - Lisa Glenn Business & School to Career Coordinator, Mr. Rodney Foster - Robotics, Mr. Karen Johnson - Library Media & Yearbook, Mr. Matt Sanchez - Theater and Mr. Daniel Petet - High School Principal, to part in a full day of exploring new strategies to engage students through internships, client-connected projects, certifications, and other real-world learning opportunities.
"We're thrilled to participate in a summit that puts students at the center of innovation," said Dr. Stephenson, "Superintendent of Schools." "The learning and engagement with other school districts gave us a chance to bring back new ideas that can impact our classrooms and prepare our students for life beyond high school."
By attending the Summit, these educators and our school district are taking an important step toward ensuring that all students graduate with valuable, marketable experiences and a clear path to their future.
For more information about the Real World Learning Summit, visit https://realworldlearning.org/.
Your Cardinals stay perfect in conference play with a road victory over North Platte.
#WeAreLawson
11 - 2 Overall
3 - 0 KCI Conference
Dear Lawson Families,
As we approach the final stretch of the school year, we thank you for your continued support and partnership. Every day of school matters, and strong attendance—right up to the very last day—helps ensure your child finishes the year on a high note.
The next six weeks of the 2024-2025 school year are packed with valuable learning, final projects, celebrations, and important preparation for next year. When students are present and engaged, they remain connected with their teachers, classmates, and the learning that supports their long-term success.
Let’s work together to make these final weeks count! Please continue to encourage your child to attend school every day, arrive on time, and stay focused until the end of the school year. Your support makes a big difference.
Thank you for helping us finish the year strong!
Dr. Stephenson
#AttendanceMatters #SuccessStartsWithShowingUp
Exciting Progress at Southwest Elementary!
We’re thrilled to announce the successful completion of the demolition and footing phase for the new office suite and main entrance at Southwest Elementary! This marks a major milestone in our project, bringing us one step closer to a safer, more modern, and welcoming space for our students, staff, and families.
Stay tuned for more updates as construction moves forward—great things are happening!
#SouthwestElementary #BuildingForTheFuture #ProgressInMotion
It's always a great day to be a Cardinal...but it's better WHEN YOU'RE HERE!!!
2025-2026 Openings
*MS Special Education (Grades 5-6)
*Elementary Classroom (2nd Grade)
*Early Childhood Classroom (PreK)
*MS Math (Grade 6)
Click the link to learn more and apply.
https://www.lawsoncardinals.org/page/employment-page
A special reminder to our families that next Monday, March 31st school WILL be in session. This was originally a teacher collaboration day, but due to snow days will now be a regular school day.
March Board Spotlight: Honoring Wrestling Coach Tyler Crow!
We are thrilled to spotlight the exceptional achievements of Coach Crow, our Boys' and Girls' Varsity Wrestling Coach, who has been honored as the Missouri Wrestling Association's 2025 Class 1 District 4 Boys Wrestling Coach of the Year.
Coach Crow's dedication and leadership have been instrumental in elevating our wrestling program. His commitment to fostering athletic excellence and personal growth among our student-athletes has led to remarkable accomplishments on and off the mat.
This prestigious award is a testament to Coach Crow's unwavering passion for the sport and his ability to inspire and mentor our wrestlers. Under his guidance, our teams have achieved competitive success and embodied the values of discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Please join us in congratulating Coach Crow on this well-deserved recognition. His contributions continue to impact our school community, and we look forward to many more seasons of success under his leadership.
#WeAreLawson
March Board Spotlight: Honoring Our Outstanding Band & Choral Directors!
We are incredibly proud to recognize the exceptional work of our high school band and choral directors, Mr. Sam Riley and Mrs. Amanda Covey, in preparing our students for the prestigious Missouri Music Educators Association (MMEA) Conference! Their dedication, passion, and commitment to musical excellence have helped our students reach new heights and showcased our district's incredible talent.
Through countless hours of rehearsals, mentorship, and guidance, these directors have inspired our students to perform at their very best on a statewide stage. Their efforts continue to enrich our music programs, foster a love for the arts, and set a standard of excellence for all.
Thank you for your hard work and dedication! Your impact on our students and community is truly invaluable. #WeAreLawson
March is School Board Recognition Month in Missouri, a time to honor the dedication and service of our local school boards.
The Lawson R-XIV School District Board of Education comprises seven dedicated members who serve three-year terms. The 2025-2026 Board members are:
Rob Kellam (2025) – President
Ashley Sullard (2026) – Vice President
Taylor Akey (2026) – Director
David Allgaier (2026) – Director
Dwayne Peoples (2025) – Director
John Weir (2027) – Director
Brian Yarbrough (2027) – Director
Kayla Anderson - Board Secretary
Their regular meetings are held every third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 pm at Lawson High School.
We are grateful for the dedication and leadership of our current board members. Their commitment ensures that our students receive a quality education and that our schools thrive.
Join us in celebrating and thanking our Lawson R-XIV School District Board members for their unwavering support and hard work serving our school community. #WeAreLawson
It's always a great day to be a Cardinal...but it's better WHEN YOU'RE HERE!!!
2025-2026 Openings
*MS Special Education (Grades 5-6)
*Elementary Special Education (Grades K-4)
*MS Math (Grade 6)
*Paraprofessional (PreK - Cardinals Nest Preschool )
Click the link to learn more and apply.
https://www.lawsoncardinals.org/page/employment-page
It's always a great day to be a Cardinal...but it's better WHEN YOU'RE HERE!!!
2025-2026 Openings
*MS Special Education (Grades 5-8)
Click the link to learn more and apply.
https://www.lawsoncardinals.org/page/employment-page
Watch for your Cardinal Connection as they hit Lawson School District resident mailboxes today.
Click link to view digital copy.
https://5il.co/3a717
School Closure Notification Due to Power Outages and Road Conditions
Due to ongoing power outages and hazardous road conditions, Lawson R-XIV will be closed today, Wednesday, March 5th. The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.
Our SW Admin Office and Main Entrance project has begun. Temporary walls are being installed, with demolishing scheduled to start next week. The completed project date is July 1, 2025. This project has been made possible by the support of our community with the passing of our No Tax Increase in April of 2024. #WeAreLawson
