photo by: Contributed

Kathy Branson

Two interim principals in the Lawrence school district have been promoted to principal positions, according to a news release Friday from the district.

Superintendent Anthony Lewis promoted Kathy Branson of West Middle School and Rebecca Reaver of Cordley Elementary School from interim to permanent principals, pending school board approval.

“Few individuals know West better than Kathy. With nearly three decades of dedication to the school’s success and strong relationships throughout the community, Kathy continues to provide exceptional leadership to guide support for all students,” Lewis said in the release.

Named interim principal in June, Branson previously served as assistant principal and athletic director for nine years and taught math for 19 years at West. She also taught a year at South and Central Junior Highs, now Billy Mills and Liberty Memorial Central Middle Schools. She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Kansas and a master’s at Emporia State University.

“I am appreciative of the confidence and trust Dr. Lewis has placed in me to continue to lead West Middle School as its principal. It is an honor to continue working with West’s students, staff, and families on our goals for supporting the success of each of our students,” Branson said in the release.

photo by: Contributed

Rebecca Reaver

Also named interim principal in June, Reaver is completing her 21st year with the district. She served four years as an autism specialist at Quail Run and Langston Hughes Elementary Schools. Reaver taught in the fifth and sixth grades at Cordley for seven years, taught at LMCMS for four years, then returned to teach five years at Cordley. Reaver earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from KU.

“Becky has drawn on her full range of teaching experiences, knowledge, and skills to continue to provide outstanding leadership for the Cordley school community. Her passion shows as she guides faculty and staff to successfully partner with school families to meet the individual needs of students,” Lewis said in the release.

“I’m humbled, thrilled, and honored to be named principal at Cordley. What especially makes me jump for joy is my excitement about the work we can continue to do together for this amazing Cordley community,” Reaver said in the release.