FAYETTEVILLE – Lawrence County Independent Schools took to Facebook on Tuesday to release a statement regarding an ongoing investigation at the charter school regarding allegations of inappropriate conduct and financial mismanagement, signed by board president Eric Johnson and Principal Joanne Symcox.
The full statement is below:
Some of you may have heard that LCIS is conducting an investigation into personnel matters and systems at our school. That is true. There have been allegations of inappropriate conduct between staff members and financial misfeasance. Upon being made aware of these allegations, the Board took quick and decisive actions to maintain the integrity of our school and investigate the allegations. The Board has hired an independent investigation and has worked closely with Authorizer, Ed One, to investigate these allegations. The individuals involved in the allegations have been put on administrative leave until the investigation is complete. The Board anticipates that the investigation will be completed within the next couple of weeks. Once complete, the Board will meet and decide next steps. A community meeting will be held wherein we provide an update as to any pertinent results and the Board’s plan to move forward. These matters are sensitive and for that reason, no public announcement has been made before now. However, the Board and Administration want to assure the LCIS community that the school remains committed to serving students and providing them an excellent education. We are grateful for the opportunity to investigate systems to ensure that students, their families and our staff are at the forefront of everything we do.
In fact, even while the investigation has been pending, our school has so much to be proud of. Here are just a few things that have happened recently:
Mrs. Hauersperger’s class worked on a PBL. The Kindergarteners answered the driving question, “How can we help in our community?” Through class research and discussion they put together a pet supply drive to donate to the White River Humane Society. They collected over 100 items and learned about aiding animals in need.
Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Ramsey’s class worked together and lovingly created Valentine’s cards for residents at Johnson Christian Village. Mrs. Brown’s class is currently working on a ELA Unit and will be writing Biographies for members of the Johnson Christian Village. They are going to visit with and interview the residents to “write their story.”
Mrs. Couch advocated for her 8th grade students and was able to provide our 8th graders with the opportunity to be the jury in a mock trial at the Lawrence County Courthouse.
Academically, LCIS continues to excel.
Students and teachers are meeting and exceeding expectations set forth by Education One at Trine University (LCIS is authorized by Trine University). We recently released our Middle of Year NWEA results and Schoolwide the percentage of students with average or above achievement increased by 15% in reading and 17% in math since the 2021-22 school year. That is amazing news and a real celebration point.
Our school community is so lucky to have teachers and staff that come from various backgrounds and bring many unique skills and viewpoints to the school. LCIS is a haven for all students—whether they are average, high-ability, or exceptional learners. The teachers and staff are dedicated to the well-being of each student as a whole and recognize the unique experiences each learner brings to the classroom.
The Board and Administration invite you to visit LCIS and see our staff and students at work. We guarantee that you will be blown away by the dedication and passion you will see at our school. All staff are incredibly committed to their students, and they work tirelessly to create engaging and meaningful lessons that inspire a love of learning. Our students are enthusiastic and eager to learn, and they support one another in their academic and personal pursuits.
Thank you,
Eric Johnson, Board President
Joanne Symcox, School Principal
