FREE STATE HIGH SCHOOL opened in 1997. The school's name honors the role the city of Lawrence played in opposing slavery so the territory of Kansas could enter the union as a free state in 1861. Free State currently serves approx 1,475 students in grades 9-12. FIREBIRD PRODUCTIONS is the student TV company that produces the live events, movies, and programs seen here on FSTV. (Scott F. Smith is the teacher/sponsor of Firebird Productions.)