This past week, I experienced a milestone so many of our Lawrence families have shared — I sent my son off to college. As I watched him take this next big step, I couldn’t help but think of all the teachers, coaches, staff, and community members who shaped him throughout his education.
As a mom, I felt the excitement, the pride, and yes, the nerves that come with watching a child step into a new chapter. As a superintendent, it reminded me why our work here in Lawrence matters so deeply. Every decision we make, every goal we set, always comes back to one simple question: What is best for kids?
As I begin this new school year as Superintendent of Lawrence Township Public Schools, I feel deeply honored to lead a district that is already rich with dedication, innovation, and heart. Our students, families, and staff inspire me every day, and it is with that spirit that I share the goals guiding our work over the next two years. These goals reflect our commitment to continuous improvement, strong instructional leadership, and meaningful community partnership as we move toward potential district realignment.
1. Empowering Instruction Through Data. Our first goal centers on creating a strong, district-wide culture of data-driven teaching and learning. By June 2026, we will have fully implemented a comprehensive data framework that helps teachers use student achievement data to inform instruction and accelerate academic growth. This includes establishing Data & Achievement Teams in every school, building consistent progress monitoring systems, aligning benchmark assessments to growth goals, and sharing effective practices across the district. This initiative moves us beyond simply collecting data — it ensures we are using it with purpose, clarity, and equity in mind.
2. A Unified Professional Development Vision. We are committed to nurturing the incredible talent we already have right here in LTPS. Our second goal is to build a long-term professional development plan that highlights teacher-led learning and strengthens leadership at every level. By 2026, we will launch a multi-year PD model aligned with our Leaders in Learning philosophy — one that includes teacher-led workshops, tandem leadership observations, and structured learning pathways for assistant principals and aspiring administrators. We believe our educators are our greatest resource, and this plan is about empowering them to lead, grow, and inspire one another.
3. Deepening Parent Engagement. Finally, we know that students thrive when schools and families work together. Our third goal is to increase parent engagement by offering at least three Parent Academies across the district. These evenings will focus on topics such as curriculum awareness, special education support, school safety, AI in education, and youth wellness. We will also begin a strategic planning process in spring 2026 that invites our families and community members to shape the future of Lawrence Township Public Schools. Your voice will be essential in that work.
These goals are ambitious — and intentionally so. They reflect who we are and who we strive to be: a district committed to excellence, equity, connection, and a culture grounded in grace and gratitude. As we move through this school year, may we lead with kindness, assume positive intent, and take time to appreciate one another for the work we do on behalf of children. I look forward to partnering with you as we build a stronger LTPS together. Here’s to a year of learning, collaboration, gratitude, and continued pride in our schools.
Dr. Robyn Klim is the Superintendent of the Lawrence Township Public Schools.
Dr. Robyn Klim, superintendent of Lawrence Township Public Schools.,
