A recent survey conducted by Lawrence Township Public Schools has revealed community priorities ahead of a bond referendum being considered for next March.
The school board is set to discuss the referendum’s next steps at its meeting tonight during a report by Board Administrator Thomas Eldridge. The meeting is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. at Lawrence High School.
The district has submitted its project application to the state for review. The evaluation will determine state funding amounts and provide the total cost of the referendum.
The survey, which drew responses from 684 participants, focused on district needs and educational priorities. It was conducted between May and June.
According to the results, the top concerns of respondents include academics, STEM, mental health, special education, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
These areas were identified as “extremely important,” while other categories, such as visual and performing arts, athletics, and preschool, were noted as significant but with slightly less urgency.
One key area that participants emphasized was the need for renovations at Lawrence Middle School, including improvements to instructional spaces and increased small group areas for specialized services.
Life skills classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and enhancements to athletic facilities were also highlighted as important.
The survey also identified community support for measures aimed at easing transitions between grade levels.
“For third graders transitioning to upper elementary, 69% of respondents believed creating an elementary-centered culture is crucial, while 61% advocated the idea of a dedicated third-grade wing,” stated a report on the survey posted on the LTPS website. “Expanding orientation programs and making changes to the playground and the physical appearance of the school also received support.”
For third graders moving to upper elementary, 69% of respondents underscored the importance of fostering an elementary-centered culture, while 61% advocated creating a dedicated third-grade wing.
Similarly, for sixth graders transitioning to middle school, 69% of participants favored a dedicated sixth-grade wing. Upgraded cafeterias and additional gym space were also identified as priorities.
Upgrades to restroom facilities at the sports fields and improvements to traffic flow were considered high priorities for the Lawrence Middle School/Lawrence High School campus. Approximately 62% of respondents rated these as critical needs.
Additional parking (45%), separate lots for students and staff (36%), and turf fields (27%) were also considered important.
The survey results demonstrate a strong preference for keeping academics at the forefront of the district’s plans. Respondents also requested enhanced orientation programs for incoming students and greater transparency regarding the budget and project specifics.
“Lawrence Township Public Schools is committed to incorporating this feedback into our planning process for the bond referendum, which aims to address critical infrastructure needs, enhance educational facilities, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the district,” states the LTPS update.
The district plans to host a variety of events, including building tours, information tables at school events, and both in-person and virtual Q&A sessions.
LTPS has scheduled an Elementary School Community Conversation for Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 6–7:30 p.m. at Slackwood Elementary School (pizza will be served).
More information on the referendum can be found on the the district’s community information page.
