photo by: Mike Yoder

Lawrence High School is pictured on Nov. 6, 2015.

A new principal could be leading Lawrence High School next school year as the school district kicks off its search to fill the position permanently.

On Friday, the district posted an advertisement for the job on its website, and the district began soliciting community feedback through an online survey on desired qualities in the next principal.

Julie Boyle, a spokeswoman for the district, on Monday confirmed the process had begun and said the district expected for candidate interviews to take place in February. Once hired, the new principal will take over the position for the 2021-2022 school year.

The job listing shows applicants must hold a building administrator certificate, with experience in school administration preferred. Pay for the position is listed between $97,000 and $115,000.

In a social media post, the district asked community members to provide anonymous input on what leadership qualities they desire in the next principal. The district plans to use the input while interviewing candidates for the position.

Community members can provide their input through a survey at bit.ly/3n6ZtvL. The district will accept feedback until 5 p.m. Dec. 31.

Boyle said the district planned to invite students, staff and parents or guardians to serve on a search advisory committee.

The high school is currently led by interim principal Cynthia Johnson, who has served in the position since July 2019. She replaced former principal Matt Brungardt, who resigned that summer after serving for 16 years.

Johnson, who is affectionately known as “Mama J,” did not directly respond to the Journal-World’s question about whether she was interested in the permanent position. Instead, she said in an email she is currently focused on supporting students, faculty and staff and finishing the fall semester strong. Additionally, Boyle said she could not answer whether Johnson is a candidate because personnel matters are confidential.

According to Kansas State Department of Education records, Johnson currently holds a building leadership certificate, making her eligible for the permanent position. She also holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Central Missouri State University, which is now known as University of Central Missouri. She also earned a doctorate in education from Baker University.

photo by: Mike Yoder

Cynthia Johnson, interim principal for Lawrence High School, is pictured September 13, 2019.

In November 2019, the district extended Johnson’s interim basis until the end of the 2020-2021 school year, which generally coincides with the expected completion of LHS’s ongoing renovation. Superintendent Anthony Lewis also credited Johnson for being a hit among students.

“In order to keep that momentum going and provide continuity through the completion of construction, I am glad that ‘Mama J’ is happy here and has agreed to stay,” Lewis said at the time.