Lawrence School Board Approves Superintendent Contract Amidst Bond Project and Expansion Initiatives
- Meeting Overview:
The Lawrence School Board meeting was marked by notable decisions, including the approval of Superintendent Robyn A. Klim’s contract extension, updates on the district’s bond project and preschool expansion, and the swearing-in of a new board member. The board unanimously supported the contract, emphasizing Dr. Klim’s achievements and ongoing projects that align with the district’s educational goals.
The meeting’s focal point was the public hearing and subsequent approval of Superintendent Robyn A. Klim’s employment contract, which extends her tenure through June 30, 2030. The board underscored Dr. Klim’s accomplishments over the past year, notably her role in the successful passage of a reconfiguration referendum. Her efforts included hosting over 25 community events, fostering stakeholder engagement, and ensuring community needs were addressed. The referendum aims to enhance learning environments and prioritize student safety, going beyond mere infrastructure improvements.
Dr. Klim’s contributions also involved surpassing preschool expansion goals and forming an early childhood advisory council. Her collaboration with the YMCA to provide extended day options exemplifies her commitment to early education. Furthermore, she introduced initiatives to bolster college and career readiness at the high school level and improve communication tools for non-English-speaking families. The proposed contract, reviewed by the executive county superintendent, recognizes Dr. Klim’s leadership and is seen as a strategic move to ensure her continued involvement in overseeing the district’s bond project for the next five years.
The board president facilitated the swearing-in of McKenzie Kelly as a new board member. The president expressed excitement about Kelly joining the team, encouraging active participation in district activities.
The meeting also covered updates on ongoing construction projects related to the district’s bond sale, scheduled for the following day. The district’s double A rating from Standard and Poor’s reflects its strong fiscal health, crucial for advancing educational infrastructure. Construction updates included the installation of rooftop air conditioning units at Lawrence Intermediate School and the high school, alongside maintenance tasks like ceiling replacements and painting projects.
Adjustmentsttention was given to the district’s Preschool Expansion program, with plans for classroom preparations and playground enhancements, including resurfacing the high school’s rubberized playground. The Superintendent confirmed positive progress in procuring necessary educational resources and services to meet the program’s needs.
In addition to these developments, the board acknowledged the efforts of various departments in preparing for the upcoming school year. The technology department’s role in managing devices and maintaining security systems was particularly noted, as was the work of the facilities team in ensuring school buildings were ready for returning teachers.
The meeting included a report on personnel changes and retirements, recognizing the contributions of long-serving employees. While the personnel committee did not convene that month, the agenda reflected accomplishments. The board also reviewed potential workshops for families and discussed updates related to the referendum alongside two district policies.
The finance committee’s report included standard business action items, which were approved unanimously. The meeting concluded with a final opportunity for public input, though no comments were made. New business items related to personnel and curriculum matters were presented and approved, culminating in congratulations to a new assistant principal in attendance.
Robyn A. Klim
School Board Officials:
Michele Bowes, Amanda Santos, Olga Martinez, Arundel Clarke, Patricia (Pepper) Evans, Jo Ann Groeger, Michelle King, Ph.D., Diana Pasculli, Kevin Van Hise, Esq.
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
07/09/2025
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Recording Published:
07/09/2025
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Duration:
92 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Mercer County
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Towns:
Lawrence (Mercer County)
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