photo by: Contributed

Meg Clark, principal at Woodlawn Elementary, and Phillip Mitchell, principal of Liberty Memorial Central Middle School.

The Lawrence school district announced two new principals at Woodlawn Elementary and Liberty Memorial Central Middle School.

Meg Clark will be the next principal at Woodlawn and Phillip Mitchell is going to be the principal at Liberty Memorial Central starting in the 2026-2027 school year, according to press releases from the school district.

Clark previously served as an assistant principal at Topeka Public Schools for the last two years. She has nine years of elementary teaching experience between Great Bend, Olathe, Concordia, and Lawrence Public Schools. She previously taught 4th grade at Quail Run Elementary, and also served as a curriculum and instruction coach at Broken Arrow Elementary.

Clark received her bachelor of science in elementary education degree from Fort Hays State and her masters of science educational administration from Emporia State University.

“We are delighted to name Mrs. Meg Clark as principal, Woodlawn Elementary; Meg brings the experience, commitment, and a driving, enthusiastic focus to ensure a culture of belonging for all,” Superintendent Jeanice Swift said in a release. “Her natural approach to see and celebrate the gifts of students, staff, school, and community make her a winning match to move forward as principal leader at Woodlawn.”

Clark said she was excited to join the community at Woodlawn in the upcoming school year.

“I cannot wait to get to know our students, staff, and families and begin building strong partnerships together,” Clark said in a release. “I look forward to supporting a school culture where every student feels connected, encouraged, and empowered to succeed.”

Mitchell has been a part of the team at Liberty Memorial Central since 2023, serving as assistant principal and athletic director. Before joining the school, he taught social studies for 10 years at Free State High School, specializing in psychology, government and AP history. Mitchell was named twice as Outstanding Educator of the Year while at Free State.

Mitchell earned a bachelor’s of science in social studies curriculum, master’s of education and an education leadership license, all from the University of Kansas.

“Bringing firsthand experience at LMCMS, an abiding commitment to students, staff, classrooms, and the Liberty community and in-depth knowledge as a thoughtful instructional leader, Phil Mitchell is the right individual to lead the school forward,” Swift said in a release.

Mitchell said he’s enjoyed his time at Liberty Memorial Central and is excited about the new role.

“I have loved my time here at Central and am honored and excited to continue my service at LMCMS in an expanded leadership role,” Mitchell said in a release. “I look forward to strengthening partnerships with staff and families to keep growing our students’ abilities and opportunities.”