Exciting Educational Development in Lawrence Township: Craig Prep Academy Set to Open by Fall 2027
In a vibrant shift for the Lawrence Township community, the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township (MSDLT) has unveiled transformative plans for the former Craig School building located on Sunnyside Road. With the projected opening of a new administrative building in the downtown Fort Ben area in spring 2025, the Craig School will soon be reimagined as Craig Prep Academy, a dedicated space for approximately 100 students per grade, spanning from fifth to eighth grade. This innovative school is expected to embrace its first cohort of students in fall 2027, with applications opening as early as fall 2026.
During a recent presentation to the MSDLT Board of Education, Assistant Superintendents Dan Kuznik and Emily Haas Brown highlighted the exciting new direction for this historic building. “This plan will reintroduce Craig to the township as a school,” expressed Brown, emphasizing the importance of revitalizing the space to serve the educational needs of local families. The initiative seeks to cultivate a small-school atmosphere, profoundly enriched by an emphasis on African American culture, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded and culturally relevant education.
Craig Prep Academy will not only cater to middle schoolers but will also complement existing educational programs for exceptional learners, the Lawrence Advance Academy, and the Lawrence Educational Alternative Program. Additionally, the building will continue to serve various community functions, including after-school activities for students in the district’s home-access program, evening classes for adults, and hosting organizations like The Sharing Place food pantry.
Enhancing academic offerings is a key focus, with a curriculum that integrates African culture into core subjects. Kuznik noted, “An example would be integrated core curriculum around ancient Egypt, where students can explore geometry and science through the wonders of the pyramids.” This culturally rich curriculum aims to resonate with the district’s diverse student body, providing them with a sense of heritage and pride.
The new academy follows a phased approach; it will introduce fifth and sixth grades initially, with seventh and eighth grades planned for subsequent years, thus creating a robust middle school pathway for its students. Board Member Crystal Puckett inquired about the inclusion of African heritage in the curriculum, to which Kuznik confirmed that both African American and broader African histories would be integral parts of student learning experiences.
As Lawrence Township prepares for this exciting evolution in educational choices, the Craig Prep Academy stands poised to spark joy, curiosity, and a celebration of cultural identity among its future students. This initiative not only preserves the legacy of the Craig School but also reinforces the township’s commitment to inclusive, diverse education.
Stay tuned for more updates as the MSDLT moves forward in this transformative journey!
Tags: #Education #Tourism #CommunityDevelopment #LawrenceTownship #Innovation
