LPS Names Next Directors of Safety and Security, Transportation

LPS Announces Next Director of Safety and Security

At the regular Liberty Public Schools Board of Education meeting held Tuesday evening, April 16, 2024, the Board appointed Maj. Joel Lovelady to be the next LPS Director of Safety and Security.

Maj. Lovelady comes to Liberty Public Schools following a twenty-seven year career with the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department. His career with the KCPD included vast experience in leadership positions, including having served as the Major/Commander of the Special Operations Division, and Major/Commander of the North Patrol Division. He also most recently has served as the Director of the Kansas City Regional Police Academy. During his nearly three decade career with the KCPD, he held the ranks of Police Officer, Sergeant, Captain, and Major.

"Major Lovelady joins us with an impressive and extensive resume and is very well suited to step into this critically important role for LPS," said LPS Chief Operations Officer Steve Anderson. "I look forward to him building upon the rock solid foundation that has been developed by Mr. Gary Majors and his security team over the past nine years."

Maj. Lovelady received his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Missouri. He and his family are also current residents of Liberty Public Schools. He will officially begin serving in this new role July 1, 2024. He will replace Gary Majors, who announced his retirement earlier this year.

LPS Names Next Director of Transportation

At the regular Liberty Public Schools Board of Education meeting held Tuesday evening, April 16, 2024, the Board appointed Mr. Andrew Jones to be the next LPS Director of Transportation.

Mr. Jones comes to LPS having most recently served as the General Manager of Terminal Operations - Student Transportation of America with the Kansas City, MO Public School District. Prior to that, he has held several leadership positions with the United States Army, including Chief of Operations/Senior Program Manager and Executive Officer/Deputy Program Manager. He is a proud Veteran of the United States Army, and his many accomplishments for his service, including receiving a Legion of Merit Medal and a Bronze Star Medal.

"Mr. Jones joins us with a very unique and impressive background, as his experience is mostly rooted in a long and successful career with the US Army", said LPS Chief Operations Officer Steve Anderson. "He will bring a fresh voice to our leadership team, and we look forward to having him join us this summer. I am confident that he will bring expertise, stability and a steady hand to the Transportation Department, and will provide us with a seamless transition."

Mr. Jones received his Bachelor's and Master's degree in Business Administration from Metropolitan State University in St. Paul, MN. He will replace Mr. Jeff Baird, who announced his retirement from LPS earlier this year. 

"I am looking forward to joining the Liberty Public Schools team," Jones said. "The organization’s demonstrated commitment and dedication to the community is second to none. I am looking forward to getting started."