FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lawson Board of Education Announces Resignations and Retirements
Lawson, MO—The Lawson R-XIV Board of Education has announced the upcoming resignations and retirements of four valued staff members, effective at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. These transitions mark significant changes for the district and reflect the dedication and service of these educators to the Lawson School Community.
Resignations:
Mrs. Ida Kemper, Assistant Principal at SW Elementary since August 2023, has announced her decision to leave education. Mrs. Kemper plans to focus on her family’s growing real estate and farming ventures and to dedicate more time to her children’s busy schedules.
Mr. Kevin Keeton, Assistant Principal at Lawson Middle School and District Activities Director since August 2023, is transitioning back to teaching and coaching. He plans to relocate closer to his home in Platte City to be more available for his family.
"We are grateful for Mrs. Kemper and Mr. Keeton's contributions during their time with us," said Superintendent Dr. Michael Stephenson. "While their departures are a loss, we fully support their decisions and wish them the very best in their future endeavors."
Retirements:
Mrs. Gwen Gilmore, High School English Teacher, is retiring after 24 years in the Lawson School District and 29 years in education. In her retirement letter, Mrs. Gilmore expressed her gratitude for the opportunities and support she received throughout her career, both as an educator and parent in the district.
Mrs. Kristi Dreesen, Middle School English Teacher, will retire after 23 years in the district and 30 years in education. Mrs. Dreesen shared her appreciation for the cherished memories and relationships built during her tenure, calling her time in Lawson a "truly rewarding experience."
"Mrs. Gilmore and Mrs. Dreesen have each had remarkable careers, impacting countless students and colleagues along the way," said Board President Rob Kellam. "Their passion, dedication, and leadership will leave a lasting legacy in the Lawson School Community."
The district acknowledges the significant contributions of these individuals and wishes them success in their next chapters. As a community, Lawson remains committed to continuing its tradition of excellence in education by recruiting dedicated and talented professionals to fill these roles. You can learn more about the employment opportunities in the Lawson School District by viewing our employment page: https://www.lawsoncardinals.org/page/employment-page
The Importance of School Attendance Before Winter Break
Dear Cardinal Families,
As we approach the festive holiday season, we want to emphasize how vital it is for students to be present and engaged in the three weeks leading up to winter break. These weeks are filled with important learning activities, projects, and opportunities for your child to build their knowledge and skills.
Every school day counts. Regular attendance not only helps students stay on track academically but also ensures they don’t miss out on collaborative classroom experiences and social connections that contribute to their growth. Missing even a few days can make it harder for your child to keep up and fully participate in lessons designed to prepare them for the upcoming semester.
We understand that this time of year can be busy with family commitments and travel plans. If you anticipate any absences, please inform your child’s teacher or the school office as soon as possible so we can work with you to support your student’s learning.
Thank you for your partnership in making every day count for our students. Together, we can ensure they end the year strong and ready for what’s ahead.
Warm regards,
Dr. Stephenson
Dear Lawson School Community,
As Thanksgiving approaches, it is my privilege to express appreciation for the unwavering dedication of our school administrators, teachers, staff, and families. We are grateful for the remarkable spirit and commitment that define our Lawson Schools. This season invites us to pause and reflect on the many reasons we are thankful, and our community stands out as a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration, care, and commitment.
The energy and enthusiasm that fill our classrooms, the unwavering dedication of those who teach and support, and the trust and encouragement from families make Lawson an extraordinary place. Together, we have created a strong foundation rooted in Proud Traditions and driven by the Endless Possibilities that lie ahead.
This Thanksgiving, let us celebrate how far we’ve come, appreciate the connections that unite us, and embrace the bright future we continue to build together. Thank you for being an integral part of our community and for all you do to support our Lawson community
We are wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and meaningful Thanksgiving.
With gratitude,
Dr. Stephenson
Reminder that school will be out of session next Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday to celebrate Thanksgiving. Wishing all our Cardinals a very Happy Thanksgiving!
November Board Spotlights:
During their November BOE meeting, the board had the opportunity to celebrate and spotlight Aleah Johnson for her selection and attendance at the Missouri Scholars Academy, administered by the University of Missouri Honors College, this past June.
Aleah was also celebrated for her selection as a 2025 Missouri All-State Choir member. She will perform as a member of the state choir later this winter during the Missouri Music Educators Association Conference. #WeAreLawson
On Wednesday night, the Board of Education proudly celebrated student achievements, recognizing our State Academic Performance on the MAP and EOC State Assessments!
The highlight of the evening was honoring the Top 132 students in grades 3 through 11 for their remarkable academic performance. These students exemplify hard work, determination, and a passion for learning that sets the bar for excellence across the district.
Congratulations to all our students, teachers, and families who make success like this possible. Let’s continue to strive for greatness together! #WeAreLawson
#StudentAchievement #AcademicExcellence #ProudMoment #TopPerformers
Today, we celebrated the 33rd Annual Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Dinner, and it was a huge success! 🦃
Our staff and students came together to serve a delicious Thanksgiving meal and share an afternoon filled with joy, laughter, and entertainment. Seeing our senior community come together reminds us of the strength and warmth that make Lawson R-XIV special.
A big THANK YOU to everyone who attended volunteered and helped make this event unforgettable. You are the heart of our district!
Here's to continuing this wonderful tradition for years to come. Wishing everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving season!
#ThanksgivingDinner #CommunityLove #LawsonProud #ThankfulAndGrateful
REMINDER- REMINDER- REMINDER
Our 33rd Annual Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Dinner is being held today at 12:30 PM in the Lawson High School Commons.
Join us for a Thanksgiving meal, followed by a performance by our Southwest Singers.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Are you ready for an adventure? Romance? Comedy? We got it all in this wild adaptation of the classic novel!
Not only does this performance feature the talents of LCT performers and artists but also our new sound system!
All the backgrounds were also all provided by Lawson Art Club! You won't want to miss this one folks!
November 21st, 22nd, & 23rd
Sellers Performing Arts Center - Lawson High School - Lawson MO
Doors open at 7, Shows start 7:30 - Students $3 - Public $5
Dinner Theatre Friday at 6:00
Students $15 - Public $20 - Preschool FREE * Includes Show Ticket
“Ken Ludwig's The Three Musketeers” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.
Last night, the Lawson School District proudly celebrated the official Chartering Ceremony for our new FFA Chapter. We took a monumental step forward in supporting agriculture education and leadership in our schools.
A huge shoutout to our dedicated students, staff, and community members who came together to make this day possible! The values of hard work, dedication, and teamwork are stronger than ever in our schools, and we’re thrilled to see our FFA chapter bloom.
Here’s to a future of growth, success, and countless opportunities for our FFA members!
#WeAreLawson #FFA #CharteringCeremony #FutureLeaders #AgEducation #ProudMoment #LawsonFFA
Lawson R-XIV School District
33rd Annual Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Dinner
Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024
Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Lawson High School Commons
Join us for a complimentary Thanksgiving meal, followed by a short entertainment program, as part of a community service project hosted by the staff and students of the Lawson R-XIV School District.
Need Transportation?
Please RSVP by Friday, November 15, 2024, by calling the Lawson Central Office at 816-580-7277 to reserve your spot.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Please make plans to join us in celebrating and showing your support for our students, the newly formed agricultural education program, and the FFA Chapter tomorrow evening. The Lawson FFA chartering ceremony and celebration will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Seller's Performing Arts Center.
We hope to see as many supporters as possible.
Happy #VeteransDay
Football Week 11 Teacher/Staff Member Of The Week
The Lawson Football program is happy to announce this week's teacher/staff member of the week. This week, the seniors would like to recognize Mr. Shane Farmer. Mr. Farmer is the Director of Technology for the Lawson School District. Mr. Farmer does so much behind the scenes to help teachers and students! Our school district runs smoothly due to his hard work and dedication! Thank you, Mr. Farmer, for all you do for the Lawson School District! #WeAreLawon
Join Us for Our Veterans Day Assembly as we come together in appreciation and support for our veterans.
Date: Friday, November 8th
Time: Veterans Breakfast @ 8:30 a.m. /Schoolwide Assembly @ 9:30 a.m.
Location: Lawson High School
Our Junior Lawson FTC Robotics Team is working hard and learning a lot today as they compete in the year's first competition. #WeAreLawson
Dear Lawson Community and Parents
We are thrilled to invite you to a historic event in the life of Lawson R-XIV School District! Our school will soon celebrate the official chartering of our FFA Chapter, a milestone that will open new opportunities for our students and the community.
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Sellers Performing Arts Center
The establishment of our FFA Chapter marks an exciting new chapter for our school, giving students the chance to develop leadership, explore agricultural sciences, and engage in hands-on learning experiences that will prepare them for successful futures. During the ceremony, you will witness the induction of our charter members and hear from our student leaders, FFA advisor, and special guests who are excited to support this initiative.
Please join us in celebrating and showing your support for our students and the future of agricultural education at Lawson High School. Together, we can inspire the next generation of leaders in agriculture and beyond.
We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you!
Warm regards,
Ms. Anna Triplett Nolan Olinger
Lawson FFA Advisor Lawson FFA President
