Lawrence Free State High School are known as the "Firebirds". Extracurricular activities are also offered in the form of performing arts, school publications, and clubs. Lawrence Free State was established in 1997 in response to overcrowding at Lawrence High School, the only public high school in Lawrence at the time. The College Board recognized Free State High with the 2007-08 Siemens Award for Advanced Placement participation and performance. One high school in each state receives this honor and a $1,000 grant for math and science education. The Firebirds compete in the Sunflower League and are classified as a 6A school, the largest classification in Kansas
Sunflower Records from popular performer Danny Cox, who reminded listeners of the folk era. Another artist was Randy Edelman, who would later find success in writing songs picked up by more famous artists such as Barry Manilow. Edelman's debut album, Sunflower SNF-5005, was released in 1971. Sunflower Records' first single, "Song Of A Thousand Voices"/ "You Can Cry If You Want To" (Sunflower 101), was by Fearless Fradkin a/k/a/ Les Fradkin and the third (Sunflower 103) was "Hippie Lady" / "Patty Cake" by the Yummies, both of which surfaced as regional hits in various sections of the US in fall 1970. By