photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

Lawrence school board members, staff and district students participate in the ribbon cutting for the Family Engagement Center on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026.

Lawrence school district staff held a ribbon cutting for the new Family Engagement Center on Monday, a centralized “front door” and one-stop hub to connect families with school and community resources.

The Family Engagement Center is at the school district offices building, 110 McDonald Drive, and families can access the entrance on the side of the building closest to the local city bus stop. The center provides a variety of supports for children and families, including resources for students who are new to the district, health and wellness resources, connections to community services and more.

“We know that every one of our schools is a family engagement center, but at this place, we can represent and welcome at the district level,” Superintendent Jeanice Swift said.

School board president Bob Byers said the center is about opening doors, building relationships and strengthening the connection between schools, families and the community.

“We know that our students are more successful when families feel welcome, supported, heard and included in their child’s education,” Byers said. “Families are our partners, and their voices, experiences and perspectives matter. When we work together, we create strong schools and better opportunities for every child.”

photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

The attendees to the ribbon cutting ceremony for the district’s Family Engagement Center are offered cookies on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026.

photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

The new Family Engagement Center is located at the Lawrence school district offices, 110 McDonald Dr.

photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

Lawrence school district staff and community members attend the ribbon cutting for the Family Engagement Center on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026.

photo by: Josie Heimsoth/Journal-World

Board president Bob Byers speaks at the ribbon cutting for the Family Engagement Center on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026.