Interim principal named for Lawrence elementary school at center of investigation
LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) - Changes are coming to a Lawrence elementary school as staff, parents and students heal.
The school district named Denise Johnson as interim principal for Prairie Park Elementary School. Superintendent Dr. Jeanice Swift said Johnson was carefully selected to fill the role.
“In selecting Denise Johnson, we have selected a leader who is well known in the Prairie Park community, an individual who is hard working, respected, and a long-serving member of the Lawrence Public Schools community,” Swift said.
Swift made the announcement during Tuesday’s school board meeting.
“She is someone who has built relationships over time. Miss Johnson will in to work alongside the Prairie Park team, parents and community,” Swift said.
The decision comes as the school and school district work to staff, students and families following accusations made against a former school speech therapist at Prairie Park Elementary School.
Mark E. Gridley, 61, is charged with one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child under the age of 14. He is also charged with one count of kidnapping.
Prairie Park Elementary School over two days in February.
The Lawrence School District fired Gridley after his arrest.
Jason Townsend resigned as principal at the school.
Dr. Swift said the school district is working to make sure there is transparency and for impacted staff and students moving forward.
The school district directed Johnson to work with an independent educational consultant to help build confidence in the leadership at Prairie Park Elementary.
The search for a permanent principal at the school will begin this fall.
“We will engage with all of Prairie Park staff, parents and community, and students next fall in order to take the time that’s needed to name an incoming long-term leader for Prairie Park,” Swift said.
Gridley is scheduled to be in court again in July for a preliminary hearing.
Copyright 2025 KCTV. All rights reserved.
