After six years leading Lawrence USD 497, Superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis announced his resignation this morning.
Lawrence Board of Education President Kelly Jones announced Lewis’ resignation pending board approval after he accepted the superintendent position in Durham, N.C., effective mid-August.
“Dr. Lewis’s roots are in Alabama and special education,” Jones said in a statement. “During my tenure on the board, I observed that combination means every student is family and his professional and ethical standards are only outmatched by his endless generosity in service.”
Under his leadership, Lewis saw the district achieve its highest graduation rates in 16 years while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and prioritizing equality.
“I am grateful for his educational leadership generally and, in particular, through the pandemic,” Jones said. “His commitment to educational equity and excellence is evident at the district and community levels, as well as at the state level, including his service to the Kansas African American Affairs Commission and the Governor’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice.”
School board member Shannon Kimball noted Lewis’ commitment to the community through increased staff salaries and student involvement including the Student Advisory Council. Kimball was board president when Lewis was hired in 2018 — a move that brought him from the role of assistant superintendent in Kansas City, Mo.
“I have always appreciated Dr. Lewis’ passion and care for students and his commitment to leadership in our community,” Kimball said in the statement. “I wish him well in his new post, and I am confident that as we navigate this transition our district is well-positioned for success in the coming years.”
Student Body President Kylee Chee has also acknowledged his commitment to student interests.
“I think his presence has just been such a great part of our school, like the way he interacts with students and teachers,” Chee said. “He’s always helping, encouraging, supporting everyone and I can just tell that he loves everybody here, and everyone feels comfortable once they’re talking to him.”
His time leading the district also saw the closure of three elementary schools amid budget cuts.
“We have been through a lot together,” Lewis said in a statement. “We have navigated challenges, celebrated achievements and built a school district that’s poised for even greater success. Fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging and prioritizing the well-being of our scholars and staff has been a goal while doing this work.”
Lewis said he is grateful for this opportunity, especially as it will bring him closer to his family, but he will always keep this corner of Kansas in his heart.
“This decision is full of mixed emotions,” Lewis said. “It has been an honor to serve as superintendent in Lawrence. Working alongside so many dedicated and talented educators, supportive families and amazing scholars has been a joy.”
A district release said school board members would be meeting soon to determine a transition plan. The district is already losing other top administrators, including Patrick Kelly, chief academic officer, and Cynthia Johnson, executive director of inclusion, engagement and belonging.
