photo by: Lawrence Public Schools

Virginia Gwyn, interim principal of New York Montessori, and Jeremy Philipp, interim principal of Quail Run Elementary.

The Lawrence school district has announced two interim principals for New York Montessori and Quail Run Elementary School.

Virginia Gwyn has been named as the interim principal for New York Montessori, and Jeremy Philipp was selected to be the interim principal at Quail Run Elementary. According to the June 22 personnel report, both positions will be effective July 1.

A press release from the Lawrence school district said Gwyn previously served as the principal of Lillie J. Jackson Early Childhood Center in the Lewisville Independent School District in Texas for six years through 2025. Last school year, she moved across the country to Columbia, Missouri and was a lead preschool teacher at the Mizzou Child Development Lab.

“It is a true honor to be named interim principal of New York Montessori. Through intentional relationships and thoughtful collaboration, I strive to support the campus as they continue to create a learning environment that embraces all students using the Montessori approach. Creating a school family where all members of the learning community feel valued and supported is essential to ensure our scholars are set up for success.”

Gwyn also has four additional years of experience of leadership at Brent Elementary in the Little Elm Independent School District in Texas, and has held various instructional and teaching positions in Texas schools.

“We are excited to add an experienced, student-centered school leader to our Lawrence Public Schools team in the selection of Ms. Virginia Gwyn as Interim Principal, New York Montessori,” Superintendent Jeanice Swift said in the release. “Principal Gwyn brings a proven record of excellence in work with elementary students; a supportive, collaborative approach with staff; and is a school leader who engages closely with families and the school community.”

Gwyn received her bachelor of science in early childhood education from Ohio University and a masters of arts in educational administration from Concordia University in Austin, Texas.

Philipp brings more than 20 years of experience in principal and other school leadership positions. He most recently served as the principal of Sunset Hill Elementary School for eight years. His most recent position was at Southwest Middle School as assistant principal and athletic director.

“I am excited to join the Quail Run community and grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a school with such a strong tradition of caring for students and families,” Philipp said in a press release. “I am looking forward to connecting with the staff, students, and families who make Quail Run such a special place. Together, we will celebrate the school’s many strengths while supporting every student as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally to become the very best version of themselves.”

Philipp began his career in education in 2001 and has served in a variety of roles, including teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, and outdoor education director. He earned his bachelor of arts in environmental policy from the University of Kansas and a masters of arts in curriculum and instruction from the University of Colorado at Denver.

“We are excited to appoint a leader who brings experience, a student-centered elementary principal leader who will immediately connect with students and staff, add value and engage with Quail Run families to strengthen relationships, renew culture and continue excellent work in support of students, staff, and community,” Swift said in the release.

Both releases from the school district said a full multi-step selection process for the permanent principal positions will begin late fall. The process will include engagement with school staff, families and community members.