photo by: Lawrence Public Schools

Lawrence Virtual School Administrator Susan Cooper, left, and Schwegler Elementary School Principal Jared Comfort

The Lawrence school district honored Schwegler Elementary School Principal Jared Comfort and Lawrence Virtual School Administrator Susan Cooper as the elementary and secondary principals of the year.

Superintendent Anthony Lewis honored Comfort Wednesday during the district’s Summer Principal Summit at Lawrence High, according to a district news release. Comfort has been in his position for 15 years, and staff nominations praised him for his exemplary commitment to data collection, equity, family partnerships, staff collaboration, and high expectations for all. The release states that Comfort mentors current and future school administrators and supports staff as they develop skills and pursue professional opportunities.

“Dr. Comfort’s leadership and support in making tough decisions is part of what makes Schwegler great,” Schwegler counselor Kiley Luckett said in the release. “I for one would not be the quality educator I am today without his guidance, accountability, and support.”

Cooper is in her first year as the administrator of Lawrence Virtual School. Staff nominations called her a phenomenal instructional leader who has shown exceptional leadership from the start, setting a positive tone and a clear vision for LVS and leading professional learning for staff that showcased her depth of knowledge in the areas of equity, instruction and the district’s strategic plan.

Nominators spoke of Cooper’s grace and professionalism when facing challenges and her navigation of issues with a focus on student learning and providing equitable access, cohesive curriculum and an engaging educational experience for all students.

“One of the most admirable qualities Susan possesses is her desire to seek first to understand,” Shelly McBeth, curriculum specialist, said in the release. “She is a problem-solver and works tirelessly to build the culture of her school. LVS is lucky to have such a knowledgeable and tenacious educator as principal.”

Truity Credit Union sponsors the school district’s staff recognition program, and Truity representatives presented Comfort and Cooper with $500 each for their service.