Lincoln Public Schools Communication Services continues to look for the most effective way to provide you with information.  EdNotes is written and published specifically for the faculty and staff of Lincoln Public Schools.

If you have information you would like to include, please email Mary Kay Roth at mkroth@lps.org.

Prescott to celebrate 90th birthday < Updated

Prescott Elementary School, 1930 S. 20th St., invites you to the Prescott 90th Celebration at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 17.

All alumni and anyone connected with the school are invited to hear a presentation by Ed Zimmer about the history of the Prescott, as well as take tours and listen to remembrances by our alums. There will also be a free pizza dinner. 

For more information, contact the school at 402-436-1161.

Posted on December 04, 2013

LPS high school graduation rate shows steady increase < Updated

The high school graduation rate at Lincoln Public Schools showed steady increases for the class of 2013, providing a record high graduation rate for the school district while the dropout rate fell to the lowest in LPS history.

“Increasing the high school graduation rate is the most important instructional strategic goal for our school district – and that makes perfect sense,” said LPS Superintendent Steve Joel.  “As we continue raising our standard of excellence at LPS, increasing numbers of LPS students leave our high schools with a meaningful diploma that serves as the gateway to better employment and a successful college career.”

Jane Stavem, associate superintendent for Instruction at LPS, agreed: “We want all of our kids to graduate and to choose their own future. I envision our school district like a huge fishing net…We are catching more students and preventing them from dropping out – by closing holes and making sure our nets are stronger.”

She noted that one of her favorite moments recently “was when a preschool student at Belmont Elementary School could tell me what year she was graduating from high school...We celebrate knowing that the entire school district is working toward this goal.”

LPS uses two sets of data for evaluating and assessing the high school graduation rate in the school district – using formulas that are slightly different.

For more than 20 years, LPS has followed the general rule of calculating graduation rates for students who start as ninth graders in the school district and graduate in four years on time.  That means 87.1 percent of the students who started at LPS as ninth graders in 2008-09 – and did not move away – graduated on time in four years, compared to 84.6 percent the previous year.  The dropout rate for 2013 was 6 percent, down from 8.3 percent the previous year.

Graduation numbers for school districts across the state were released Friday by the Nebraska State Department of Education – using a slightly different calculation formula.  The state includes students who transfer into high school after ninth grade begins: a formula that gives LPS an 83.7 percent graduation rate, up from 83.3 percent the previous year.  Stavem explained that the difference is easy to understand: Students who arrive and transfer into LPS later in their school experience – tend to have a greater number of life challenges and therefore graduate at a dramatically lower rate.

Jadi Miller, director of Curriculum at LPS, continued:  “We are working hard to make sure our kids don’t get lost in the system.  We are more deliberate. We are closely monitoring each and every student – sewing up those holes in the net where kids might have disappeared in the past.  We want every one of our students to feel a connection to high school.”

Both Stavem and Miller pointed out significant increases in rates for the major ethnic minority groups.  In the past three years the high school graduation rate for:

• African American students: 67.8 to 81.3 percent.
• Hispanic American students: 49.6 to 73.7 percent.
• Native American students: 34.8 to 78.9 percent
• Asian American students: 85.9 to 84.1 percent
• White students: 83.7 to 89.5 percent

This kind of consistent increase in the LPS graduation rate took focus and intention throughout the school district – it must be a systemic plan that runs from elementary to middle to high school, Stavem stressed.

Specifically, high schools have implemented a broad range of initiatives focused on the graduation rate, including:

• Lincoln Southwest High School:  “Lincoln Southwest has worked hard to close the achievement gap in one of the most important areas, graduation rate.  Since the class of 2010, LSW has seen 3 years of steady increase in the graduation rates of African American and Hispanic students.  In 2010, 73.7 percent of African American students and 60 percent of Hispanic students graduated from LSW.  These numbers rose to 77.3 percent and 78.6 percent, respectively for the class of 2011.  The most recent data we have available is from the class of 2012, with a graduation rate of 85 percent for African American students and 88 percent for Hispanic students…We are also working to ensure our graduates are ready for college: Since 2005, LSW has seen nearly 90 percent of its college freshmen return for a second year of college.” 

• Lincoln Southeast High School: “One of the school improvement goals for Lincoln Southeast for the 2013-14 school year was to improve the graduation rate to 90 percent by 2016. Three years ago the school graduation rate was 82 percent for the class of 2011, for the class of 2012 it increased to 87 percent, and then increased again to 90 percent for the class of 2013. LSE has worked to continue to establish a culture for high expectations and positive supports for students. Over the past few years Southeast has created many different interventions for struggling students in our effort to help them graduate on time. These interventions include an after school “Positive Youth Development” program called Knight House, mandatory academic support through Knightly Success, a math resource center and math interventionist. LSE has also partnered with the H.U.B. to help some of the students struggling the most – find resources outside of school. These new programs combined with our more traditional Learning Centers help to support students and allow them to graduate.”

• Lincoln North Star High School:  “We have a variety of initiatives at North Star specifically focused on increasing the graduation rate.  Administrators and counselors focus on juniors and seniors, and spend additional time meeting with them regularly to address graduation and what they need to do to finish on time. Graduation is mentioned whenever we have assemblies. All incoming ninth graders are provided with an end of their first-day rally focused on the year of their graduation. We have developed a "students on the bubble list" and ask teachers to "adopt" students to closely work with them to create a graduation plan. In addition, we have addressed the graduation gap for Hispanic/Latino students: We have created a Latino Empowerment Committee whose work includes regularly scheduled Latino parent meetings to address graduation, credit acquisition, etc. – and secure translators and special assistance for parent meetings.”  

 

 

Posted on December 04, 2013

YouthInspire hosting winter clothing drive < New

YouthInspire is hosting its second annual winter clothing drive December 9th-13th at all LPS high schools and Lincoln Pius X.

Posted on December 04, 2013

LPS Outstanding Art Students to be honored at LPSDO exhibition < New

The Outstanding Art Students of the Year will be honored at an Artist Reception from 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 17 at the Lincoln Public Schools District Office. The event is part exhibition, as the artwork of students is currently hanging on the walls of the district's administration offices.

Posted on December 04, 2013

Holiday-themed recipes from FCS teachers < Updated

Looking for new recipe ideas? Family and Consumer Science teachers in Lincoln Public Schools were invited to share some of their favorite recipes. Some are simple, some require more expertise, all sound really delicious. Bon appetite!

Cheesy Potato Casserole

Brittany Staack

Prep Time:  5 mins

Total Time:  1 hr 5 mins

Servings:  8

Ingredients

2 lbs frozen hash browns (I use the diced kind)

1/2 cup butter

1 (10½-ounce) can cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup diced onion

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Defrost potatoes, melt butter and mix together all ingredients.
2. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour in a 9x13 baking dish.

Crispy Fan Baked Potatoes

Sherry McCranie

Preheat oven to 425 degrees

Scrub clean Russet potatoes, however many you need, do not peel

Pat dry

Mix up dry bread crumbs with added parmesan or cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, paprika (for every potato, you will need ¼ cup bread crumbs, ¼ cup cheese, ¼ teaspoon of each seasoning)

Find the flattest side, lengthwise

Cut into 1/4 inch fan cuts without cutting all the way through the potato

Rinse with water again, pat dry thoroughly

Brush on olive oil – on the skin and throughout the cuts

Microwave on high for six minutes with the cut side down

Place on baking sheet and bake in 425 degree oven for 30 minutes or until tender.  During the last five minutes of baking, take potatoes out and fill with bread crumb mixture.  Finish baking and remove when cheese has melted and topping looks crispy.

*To make this a complete meal, add broccoli flowerets in the bread crumb mixture and cooked bacon, if desired.

Czech-Slovak Dough for Kolaches

Sharon Holliday

2 pkgs yeast

2 1/2 cups warm water

½ teaspoon sugar

1/2 cup margarine/butter/shortening

1/2 cup sugar

1 egg, beaten

1¼ teaspoon salt

8 cups flour or less

Dissolve yeast in ½ cup warm water with ½ teaspoon sugar, usually 5 to 10 minutes.  Cream sugar and margarine well.  Add beaten egg, 2 cups warm water and dissolved yeast.

Add sifted flour so that dough can be well kneaded.  When it is elastic to the touch, put the dough in a warm place OR refrigerate overnight.

Knead down again, let rise until double in bulk.  Shape and fill with filling such as cherry pie filling, apricot filling, poppy seed, prune or whatever you like.

Bake at 375 degrees for approximately 8 to 10 minutes.

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Christina Tipken

1 cup maple syrup

1 cup water

3 cups cranberries

¼ teaspoon ginger

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

Bring water and syrup to a boil.  Add cranberries and spices.  Simmer till all cranberries have popped and a sauce is created. 

Haricots Verts with Roasted Shallots,
Roquefort & Almonds

Sherry McCranie

© Copyright Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Serves 8

Ingredients

2 lbs. haricots verts (thin green beans), trimmed

1 lb. shallots, peeled and sliced in half

3 Tablespoons vegetable oil

1/4 lb. blue cheese (preferably Roquefort), crumbled

3/4 cup almonds (preferably Marcona), toasted and roughly chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.  Toss shallots in vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.  Spread onto a sheet pan and roast until beginning to caramelize, about 10 minutes.  Remove from oven and set aside.
2. In a large stockpot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil.  Boil green beans until al dente.  Immediately transfer beans to a bowl of ice water to quickly cool.  Drain beans in a colander and set aside to dry.
3. Place stockpot over a medium-low heat.  Add beans, shallots and enough vegetable oil to coat.  Once beans and shallots are warm, add in half the cheese and almonds and toss to combine.
4. Remove from heat and transfer beans to desired serving platter.  Top with remaining cheese and almonds.

Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes

Julie Lokie

Ingredients

1 (10.5 oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/3 cup diced onions

1 Package (30 oz.) shredded hash brown potatoes

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.  Coat 13x9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together soup, sour cream, salt and pepper.  Stir in cheese, onion and hash browns until well mixed.  Spoon evenly in to baking dish.

Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until hot and bubbly.  Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.  Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired. 

Oreo Balls

Julie Lokie

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package Oreo cookies, crushed

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 (24-ounce) package white chocolate bark

1 (24-ounce) package chocolate bark

Directions

1. Using a blender or handheld mixer, mix Oreos and cream cheese together.
2. Roll into walnut-size balls.
3. Chill for an hour.
4. Melt approximately 3/4 package of white almond bark.
5. Stick a toothpick in an Oreo ball and dip it in the melted white almond bark.
6. Allow to harden on wax paper.  Takes about 15 minutes.
7. While waiting, melt about 1/4 package of chocolate almond bark.
8. When Oreo balls are no longer sticky to the touch, decorate with drizzles of chocolate and white almond bark.
9. I just use a sandwich bag with a tiny hole cut in one corner to drizzle the almond bark. 

Machine Shed Baked Potato Soup

Julie Lokie

Servings:  8-12

Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs baby red potatoes, quartered

1/2 cup bacon, uncooked finely diced

1 large onion, diced

1/4 bunch celery, diced

2 quarts milk

1 quart water

4 tablespoons chicken base

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

3/4 cup margarine or 3/4 cup butter

3/4 cup flour

1/4 bunch fresh parsley, freshly chopped

1 cup whipping cream

1/2 cup colby cheese, Shredded

1/4 cup bacon, bits fried

2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Directions

In large pot, boil potatoes in water 10 minutes.  Drain and set aside.  In large heavy pot, sauté bacon, onion and celery over medium-high heat until celery is tender, about 5 minutes.

Remove mixture from pot, drain bacon grease and return mixture to pot.  Add milk, water, base, salt and pepper.  Cook over medium-high heat until mixture is very hot, about 8 minutes, stirring often.  Do not let mixture boil.

In small, heavy saucepan melt margarine.  Add flour and mix well.  Cook over medium-low heat until mixture bubbles, stirring 2 to 3 minutes to make a roux.  While constantly stirring soup, add roux slowly until soup is thick and creamy, about 4 minutes.

Stir in parsley, reserved potatoes, and cream.  Garnish with cheese, bacon bits, onions or all three.

Serve hot.

Angel Crisp Cookies

Marge Keep

1/2 cup white sugar

1 cup shortening – 1/2 margarine

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 egg

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cream of tartar

½ teaspoon salt

Cream sugars, shortening, eggs and vanilla.  Stir in dry ingredients.  Mix well.  Form into small balls (about the size of a walnut).  Dip top half in water, then granulated sugar.  Press down in center with finger.  Place on ungreased baking pan.  Bake at 325° until lightly browned (8-10 min).  Remove immediately to a cooling rack.

Apple Torte

Marge Keep

Bottom:

1 cup margarine

½ teaspoon vanilla

2 cups all-purpose flour

Filling:

2-8 oz. pkgs. cream cheese

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 eggs

Topping:

1/3 cup sugar

5 medium apples, peeled and sliced-any cooking apple

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Cream margarine, sugar and vanilla.  Blend in flour.  Spread into a buttered 9x13 pan.  Combine cream cheese and sugar.  Blend in eggs and vanilla.  Pour into pan over crust.  Spread evenly.  Combine sugar and cinnamon.  Toss in apples and stir to coat.  Spoon into 13x9 pan making sure to spread apples evenly.  Bake 450° for 8 minutes and then 400° for 25 minutes.  Cool.  Carefully cut into bars.

Oreo Truffles

Kimberly Rempel

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package OREO chocolate sandwich cookies, divided

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

24 ounces almond bark, melted

Directions

1. Crush cookies to fine crumbs in food processor.  (Cookies can also be finely crushed in a resealable plastic bag using a rolling pin.)  Place in mixing bowl.  Add cream cheese; mix until well blended.  Roll cookie mixture into 42 balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
2. Freeze balls on parchment.
3. Melt almond bark in microwave in a pie plate.  Begin with 60 seconds and then stir.  Reheat in 30-second increments.
4. Take balls out of freezer a dozen at a time.
5. Dip balls in almond bark; place on wax paper-covered baking sheet.  (Any leftover chocolate can be stored at room temperature for another use.)
6. Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.  Store truffles, covered, in refrigerator.

Footnotes

Place truffle ball in melted chocolate to coat; roll if necessary.  Lift truffle from chocolate using two forks (this will allow excess chocolate to run off) before placing on wax paper.

Peanut Clusters

Nicki Hanseling

1 lb. salted cocktail peanuts

12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips

16 oz. chocolate bark

1/8 to 1/4 paraffin wax

Melt chips, bark and paraffin.  Stir in peanuts.  Drop onto cookie sheets covered with wax paper.  Set in refrigerator.  When firm, place in airtight container and keep in refrigerator.

Pecan Balls with Dried Cranberries

Kimberly Rempel

Content Copyright © 2011 Cooks.com - All rights reserved.

1 cup soft butter

1/2 cup sugar

2 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups sifted flour

2 cups ground pecans

1 cup cut-up craisins

Cream butter and sugar.  Add vanilla and mix well.  Add flour and mix until combined.  Blend in pecans and finely chopped craisins.  Use cookie scoop and roll dough into balls.  Refrigerate 1-2 hours.  Bake at 350 degrees on greased cookie sheet for 20 minutes.  Roll balls in powdered sugar twice after cookies have cooled completely.

Cinnamon Rolls

Alicia Beck

I got this recipe when I was in high school from Nancy Stritt who was my FCS teacher.  They were her traditional Christmas gifts at the time and have also been a holiday tradition in my family.

Dissolve 2 Tablespoons yeast in 1/4 cup warm water

In a separate bowl melt:                  1/2 cup (1 stick) oleo – I use real butter

Add to it:                                    1 cup boiling water

                                             2 teaspoons salt

                                             1/2 cup sugar

Mix the three ingredients.  Add 1 cup cold water.  Add dissolved yeast.  Add 2 eggs.  Measure 6 cups of flour into a bowl.  Begin adding flour 1 cup at a time and beat thoroughly after each addition.  Add until the dough is thick enough to knead.  Knead for 5 minutes.  Place dough in greased bowl.  Prepare topping for rolls.

2 cups brown sugar

2 sticks oleo (again, use real butter)

1/4 cup milk

Melt, stir together and put into two 9x13 cake pans.

Allow dough to double in size.  Roll into a large rectangle.  Spread with sour cream, butter, sugar, cinnamon.  Roll up dough.  Cut into 1½-inch slices and place in pan.  Bake at 350° F. 

Raspberry Coffee Cake

Alicia Beck

This was the recipe I found for the quick bread unit in my high school foods class.

Cut one 3 oz. package cream cheese and 1/4 cup butter into 2 cups packaged biscuit mix till crumbly.  Blend in 1/3 cup milk.  Turn out onto lightly-floured surface and knead 8-10 strokes.  On waxed paper, roll dough to 12 x 8 rectangle.  Turn onto greased baking sheet; remove waxed paper.  Spread 1/2 cup raspberry preserves (apricot is good too, needs to be preserves – not jelly) down center of dough.  Make 2½-inch cuts at 1-inch intervals on long sides.  Fold strips over filling.  Bake at 425° F for 12 to 15 minutes.  Drizzle the warm coffee cake with confectioners icing (add almond flavoring).  Makes 1 coffee cake.

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This is the most frequently requested dish at our family gatherings.

1 1/4 cups margarine, melted

2 2/3 cups pretzels, broken

6 oz. strawberry Jello

1 large pkg. frozen strawberries

2 cups pineapple juice or water, boiling

8 oz. pkg. cream cheese

1 cup sugar

8 oz. Cool Whip

Stir together the crushed pretzels and melted margarine in bottom of 9 x13 pan.  Bake 10 minutes at 400 degrees.  Let cool while preparing other layers.  Dissolve gelatin in boiling liquid.  Stir in strawberries and allow to thicken almost to jelled point.  Cream together the cream cheese and sugar.  Fold in the whipped topping.  Spread the cream cheese mixture over the pretzel layer.  Spread thickened Jello over the cream cheese layer.  Refrigerate.

Sugar Cookies

T. Diane Bonesteel

1 cup margarine or butter

1 cup sugar

1 cup powdered sugar

1 cup oil

2 eggs

4 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vanilla

Pinch of nutmeg

Blend butters, sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla.  Sift dry ingredients and mix well with creamed ingredients.  Make into walnut size balls flatten with a glass that has been dipped in sugar.  Bake at 350  for 8 to 10 minutes.

Swedish Butter Cookies

Tracy Way

1 cup butter

2 cups flour

1/4 cup powdered sugar

¼ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon vanilla

Cream butter and add vanilla.  Add sugar, flour and baking powder.  Form in 2 rolls and chill.  Cut in ¼-inch thick or more.  Place on ungreased cookie sheet.  Bake at 375° until set (10 minutes).

Reindeer Poop

Sheri Wieden

1 package of regular Oreos (not double stuff)

2 8-oz. pkgs cream cheese, softened

melting chocolate or almond bark (optional)

Crush cookies with a rolling pin or food processor.  Stir in cream cheese until well blended.  Drop by cookie scoop on baking tray.  Refrigerate until serving.  If desired, each ball can be dipped in melted chocolate and allowed to harden before serving.

Wild Rice Soup

Kimberly Rempel

Serves 4-6

1/2 cup finely diced onion, 1 T butter

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup flour

3 cups chicken broth

2 cups cooked wild rice, cooked in chicken broth

1 cup diced ham, Black Forest or Virginia

1/2 cup carrots, finely grated

1/4 cup slivered almonds

1 cup half n half

Sauté onion in one tablespoon of butter.  Set aside.  Melt butter, whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes.  Slowly add and whisk in chicken broth.  Add cooked wild rice, ham and carrots.  Simmer until carrots are tender, about 20 minutes.  Add almonds and half and half.  Simmer, but do not boil.

Posted on December 04, 2013

2014 LPS Spelling Bee < New

Saturday, February 8, 2014, 8:30 a.m.

Posted on December 04, 2013

LPS High School Music/Theater Calendar

High schools in Lincoln Public Schools perform various music and theater performances throughout the year. For more information about a specific event, call the school. To add a music or theater performance to this list, email zbaehr@lps.org.

December

Dec. 5: Theater – Lincoln High: The Trojan Women, 7 p.m.

Dec. 5-6: Theater - Lincoln East: One-Act Play, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6: Music – Lincoln Southeast: One-Act Play Performance, 7:30 p.m., Admission charge

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Dec. 9: Madrical, Lincoln Southeast High School, Sheridan Lutheran Church, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10: Music - Lincoln East Auditorium: Winter Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I & II Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 12-14:  Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus, 7 p.m., Tickets go on sale November 12; Call 402-436-1335

Dec. 16: Music - Lincoln East Auditorium: Winter Band Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Band, Orchestra & Choir Concert, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 17: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 18: Music – Lincoln East: East Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Day, 12:30 p.m.

Dec. 19: Music – Lincoln East: East Vocal Solo & Ensemble Day, 12:30 p.m.

January

Jan 2-4: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Student and Alumni Directed and performed Musical Revue:  ENCORE 7, 7 p.m., Reserved Tickets go on sale December 2; Call 402-436-1335

Jan. 16: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Show Choirs Showcase, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Thespian Showcase, 7:30 p.m., Admission charge

February

Feb. 8: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Southwest Show Choir Showdown

Feb. 9: Music – Lincoln North Star: Lincoln Youth Symphony Concert, 3 p.m.

Feb. 10: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Bands Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 17: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I, II & III Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 20: Music – Lincoln North Star: Vocal & Instrumental Solo Recital, 7 p.m.

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Feb. 24: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Orchestra & Wind Ensemble Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 24: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Jazz Band Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 26: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Singing Knights, Knight Sounds, Excalibur Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 26: Music – Lincoln Southwest:  Band and Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 27-28: Theater – Lincoln High: Once Upon a Mattress, 7 p.m.

Feb. 27-28: Theater – Lincoln North Star: Beauty and the Beast, 7 p.m.

March

Mar. 1: Theater – Lincoln High: Once Upon a Mattress, 2 p.m.

Mar. 1: Theater – Lincoln North Star: Beauty and the Beast, 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Mar. 4: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Orchestra FINALE Concert, 7 p.m.

Mar. 4: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

Mar. 19-21: Theater – Lincoln High, The Glass Menagerie, End Game, The Adventures of the Speckled Band and TBA, Time TBA

Mar. 20-22: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Nite of Knights, 7 p.m., Admission charge.

Mar. 22: Music – Lincoln Northeast: Jazz Band Spring Swing Dance

Mar. 27: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Choir Concert, 7 p.m.

April

Apr. 7: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Bands & Orchestras Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 8: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 10: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Court Choir, Queens Court Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 10-12: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Anything Goes, 7 p.m., Tickets go on sale March 10; Call 402-436-1335

Apr. 13: Music – Lincoln East: Lincoln Youth Symphony Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 14: Music – Lincoln Northeast: NSAA District Music Contest, all day

Apr. 17-19: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Anything Goes

Apr. 28: Music – Lincoln East: Jazz Concert Café in Commons, 7 p.m.

Apr. 29: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

May

May 1-2: Theater – Lincoln High: Call Me Shakespeare, 7 p.m.

May 1-4: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Musical, 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Sunday Matinee, Admission charge

May 3: Theater – Lincoln High: Call Me Shakespeare, 2 p.m.

May 8: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I, II & III Concert, 7 p.m.

May 9: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Swing Night Jazz Band, 6 p.m.

May 9-10: Music – Lincoln East: Expressions, 8 p.m.

May 12: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble Concert, 7 p.m.

May 12: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

May 13: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Bands Concert, 7 p.m.

May 13: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

May 13: Music – Lincoln Southeast: A Little Knight Music, 7 p.m. Admission charge

May 14: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Chamber Ensemble & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

May 14: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Choir Concert, 6:30 p.m.

May 15: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

May 19-20: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Faculty Production, Pageant, 7 p.m., Tickets go on sale April 19; Call 402-436-1335

By High School

Lincoln East

Nov. 1-2: Theater - Lincoln East: Guys and Dolls, 7 p.m.

Nov. 16: Music - Lincoln East, South Gym: Night at the Acropolis VI, 7 p.m.

Dec. 5-6: Theater - Lincoln East: One-Act Play, 7 p.m.

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Dec. 10: Music - Lincoln East Auditorium: Winter Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16: Music - Lincoln East Auditorium: Winter Band Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 18: Music – Lincoln East: East Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Day, 12:30 p.m.

Dec. 19: Music – Lincoln East: East Vocal Solo & Ensemble Day, 12:30 p.m.

Jan. 16: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Show Choirs Showcase, 7 p.m.

Feb. 10: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Bands Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Mar. 4: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Orchestra FINALE Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 7: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Bands & Orchestras Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 13: Music – Lincoln East: Lincoln Youth Symphony Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 28: Music – Lincoln East: Jazz Concert Café in Commons, 7 p.m.

Apr. 29: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

May 9-10: Music – Lincoln East: Expressions, 8 p.m.

May 12: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble Concert, 7 p.m.

May 13: Music – Lincoln East Auditorium: Bands Concert, 7 p.m.

Lincoln High

Oct. 3-4: Theater – Lincoln High: Pride and Prejudice, 7 p.m.

Oct. 5: Theater – Lincoln High: Pride and Prejudice, 2 p.m.

Dec. 5: Theater – Lincoln High: The Trojan Women, 7 p.m.

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Feb. 27-28: Theater – Lincoln High: Once Upon a Mattress, 7 p.m.

Mar. 1: Theater – Lincoln High: Once Upon a Mattress, 2 p.m.

Mar. 19-21: Theater – Lincoln High, The Glass Menagerie, End Game, The Adventures of the Speckled Band and TBA, Time TBA

Apr. 14: Music – Lincoln Northeast: NSAA District Music Contest, all day

May 1-2: Theater – Lincoln High: Call Me Shakespeare, 7 p.m.

May 3: Theater – Lincoln High: Call Me Shakespeare, 2 p.m.

Lincoln North Star

Oct. 8: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Oct. 22: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Dec. 10: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9: Music – Lincoln North Star: Lincoln Youth Symphony Concert, 3 p.m.

Feb. 20: Music – Lincoln North Star: Vocal & Instrumental Solo Recital, 7 p.m.

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Feb. 27-28: Theater – Lincoln North Star: Beauty and the Beast, 7 p.m.

Mar. 1: Theater – Lincoln North Star: Beauty and the Beast, 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Mar. 4: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 8: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 14: Music – Lincoln Northeast: NSAA District Music Contest, all day

May 13: Music – Lincoln North Star: Choral Concert, 7 p.m

May 15: Music – Lincoln North Star: Instrumental Concert, 7 p.m.

Lincoln Northeast

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Mar. 22: Music – Lincoln Northeast: Jazz Band Spring Swing Dance

Apr. 14: Music – Lincoln Northeast: NSAA District Music Contest, all day

Lincoln Southeast

Oct. 10-12: Theater - Lincoln Southeast: The Spectre Bridegroom, 7:30 p.m. Admission.

Oct. 13: Theater - Lincoln Southeast: The Spectre Bridegroom, 2 p.m. Admission.

Oct. 17: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Bel Canto, Excalibur, Queens Court, Singing Knights Concert, 7 p.m.

Oct. 21: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I Concert, 7 p.m.

Oct. 23: Music – Lincoln Southeast:  Knights Sounds, C&N, Ct. Choir, Ars Nova Concert, 7 p.m.

Oct. 24: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 6: Vocal Music - Lincoln Southeast: One-Act Play Performance, 7:30 p.m., Admission charge

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Dec. 9: Madrical, Sheridan Lutheran Church, 7 p.m.

Dec. 10: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I & II Concert, 7 p.m.

Dec. 16: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Thespian Showcase, 7:30 p.m., Admission charge

Feb. 17: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I, II & III Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Feb. 24: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Orchestra & Wind Ensemble Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 26: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Singing Knights, Knight Sounds, Excalibur Concert, 7 p.m.

Mar. 20-22: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Nite of Knights, 7 p.m., Admission charge.

Apr. 10: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Court Choir, Queens Court Concert, 7 p.m.

May 1-4: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Musical, 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Sunday Matinee, Admission charge

May 8: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Jazz Band I, II & III Concert, 7 p.m.

May 12: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble Concert, 7 p.m.

May 13: Music – Lincoln Southeast: A Little Knight Music, 7 p.m. Admission charge

May 14: Music – Lincoln Southeast: Chamber Ensemble & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Lincoln Southwest

Oct. 2: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Jazz Band/Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Oct. 7: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Choir Concert, 7 p.m.

Nov. 10: Music - Lincoln Southwest: Lincoln Youth Symphony Concert, 3 p.m.

Nov. 17: Music – Lincoln Southwest Varsity Concert Choir, Choral Collaborative with Omaha Symphony – “CARMINA BURANA”, Holland Performing Arts Center, Omaha, NE  2 p.m.

Nov. 22: Music – Lincoln Southwest Chamber Choir, NMEA Concert, St. Paul United Methodist Church (13^th and N) 10:30 a.m. - Free to public

Nov. 25: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Jazz Band & Show Choir Concert, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 7: Theater - District One-Act Plays, 8 p.m.

Dec. 12-14:  Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus, 7 p.m., Tickets go on sale November 12; Call 402-436-1335

Dec. 16: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Band, Orchestra & Choir Concert, 6:30 p.m.

Jan 2-4: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Student and Alumni Directed and performed Musical Revue:  ENCORE 7, 7 p.m., Reserved Tickets go on sale December 2; Call 402-436-1335

Feb. 8: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Southwest Show Choir Showdown

Feb. 22: Music – Lincoln High: LPS Vocal/Instrumental Solo & Ensemble Contest, 8 a.m.

Feb. 24: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Jazz Band Concert, 7 p.m.

Feb. 26: Music – Lincoln Southwest:  Band and Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

Mar. 27: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Choir Concert, 7 p.m.

Apr. 10-12: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Anything Goes, 7 p.m., Tickets go on sale March 10; Call 402-436-1335

Apr. 14: Music – Lincoln Northeast: NSAA District Music Contest, all day

Apr. 17-19: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Anything Goes

May 9: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Swing Night Jazz Band, 6 p.m.

May 12: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Band & Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m.

May 14: Music – Lincoln Southwest: Choir Concert, 6:30 p.m.

May 19-20: Theater – Lincoln Southwest: Faculty Production, Pageant, 7 p.m., Tickets go on sale April 19; Call 402-436-1335

Posted on December 02, 2013

Special bond issue election proposed for 2014

The Lincoln Board of Education met for a work session and a regular meeting on Tuesday, November 26, at Lincoln Public Schools District Office, 5905 O St. Highlights are below. The next regular meeting for the Board is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 10.

Highlights of Board of Education’s regular meeting 11/26

Special bond issue election proposed for 2014

It’s official:  The Lincoln Board of Education appears likely to call for a special election in February to ask Lincoln voters to approve about $150 million in bonds to pay for a variety of essential facility and infrastructure projects for Lincoln Public Schools.

Asking for a special bond issue election early in 2014 – instead of waiting for the May election – could save Lincoln Public Schools an estimated $1 million, mostly due to the ability to take advantage of the 2014 construction season, Liz Standish, associate superintendent for Business Affairs, told the Board of Education.

Standish noted opting for a special election would be:

• Economically prudent by allowing the school district to begin some projects over the summer of 2014 – ultimately tallying up money saved in inflation costs on construction materials.
• Academically prudent by allowing many projects to move forward sooner, specifically the technology and security projects, as well as the opening for the high school career academy (planned to open in the fall of 2015).

The Board discussed the issue Tuesday evening, and will likely vote approval at the Dec. 10 meeting.  If the Board calls for a bond issue, the Election Commissioner would determine whether the election would be a traditional go-to-the-polls election – or an entirely mail-in election.

The Board also discussed adoption of an updated 10-year facilities and infrastructure plan – with final approval planned for the December meeting – that would guide how bond issue money is used. 

Barb Baier, a member of the Board, pointed out: “I notice each quarter, each quadrant of our city is represented…because this plan is needs driven…I’m proud of the work that has been done.”

Board President Don Mayhew added:  “I believe we have put a very strong plan together…It takes care of facility and infrastructure needs, it takes care of technology and security, and addresses the considerable growth in our school district.”

Major information about the proposed 2014 bond issue

• The 2014 bond issue will not raise the school tax levy.
• The 2014 bond issue addresses the incredible growth we have seen in our community and school district (almost 1,000 new students this year) – by proposing the construction of one new elementary, one new middle school, a high school career academy and a variety of additions and renovations that would add about 1,000 new elementary “seats” and 800-some new middle school “seats” in all areas and quadrants of the school district.
• The 2014 bond issue ensures that LPS continues to provide an excellent, cutting-edge education to our students: with enhanced security, a new vision for education with the high school career academy, a foundation for providing contemporary lessons through instructional technology – again, projects that encompass all areas and quadrants of the school district.  (Technology ensures that teachers can provide powerful lessons through contemporary tools: This bond issue will ensure appropriate bandwidth so all students can access rich instructional lessons.)
• A healthy, vibrant public education system keeps our community competitive in the state and the country: enriching the quality of life in the fabric of our community, providing educated, qualified workers, attracting new business and industry to Lincoln. We are grateful to our community for continued support.

The 2014 bond issue was a grassroots effort that began with a group of 90 Lincoln stakeholders from the school district and the community – called together by the LPS Superintendent – that identified more than $350 million top facility and infrastructure needs necessary in the changing landscape of education. The Lincoln Board of Education evaluated and analyzed the recommendations to create an updated 10-year facility and infrastructure plan to hone down the list to $150 million of affordable projects. The school district has maintained a 10-year facilities and infrastructure plan since 2005 to systemically and thoughtfully focus planning for LPS projects into the future.

School calendar for 2015-16

The Lincoln Board of Education approved a school calendar for 2015-16 Tuesday – slightly different than initially proposed – affirming that the most important priority for developing the school calendar is sound instructional considerations and priorities ensuring the continuity, efficiency and effectiveness of teaching and learning.

The new approved calendar would push back the first day of school for the 2015-16 school year from the proposed Monday, August 10 to Wednesday, August 12, 2015 – along with a few other slight changes in first semester.  Under the approved calendar, the first quarter will end on Oct. 14, second quarter will begin Oct. 19 and semester break will be Dec. 23-Jan. 4.  The  end date of the school year will be May 19, 2016.

The 2015-16 calendar is structured much like this year and next – which are already approved – that schedules the winter and semester breaks together.

Grade 4 Math Curriculum Enhancements

Enhancements to the fourth grade math curriculum were implemented this school year at LPS – modeled after the successful third grade enhancements developed last year.

Matt Larson, LPS curriculum specialist for math, gave a presentation to the School Board about the highlights of the program.

“The enhancements had a major impact on grade 3 achievement,” Larson said, success that was reflected in significantly higher third grade NeSA (Nebraska State Accountability) achievement scores.

Why the increase?

• LPS was building off the implementation of a conceptual and successful K-2 math program implemented in 2011-12, so students were arriving in third grade better prepared.
• Math teachers use online district common assessments to measure and benchmark how well students are learning, and using the results to target re-teaching efforts.
• Teachers are using very detailed, scripted “Lesson Treatments” that detail the components of all math lessons – including interactive questions and student homework assignments.

“The combination of all these factors had impact on grade 3 and we believed we needed to do the same program for grade 4,” Larson said.

School Board citations  

The Board of Education recognized Tommy Bender, a teacher and speech coach at Lincoln Southeast High School, named the 2013 John Thurber Distinguished Teacher of the Year.

Highlights of Board’s work session, 11/26

Plan proposed for students with behavior issues

At a Board of Education work session Tuesday, LPS staff presented a proposed plan to enhance the way the school district deals with students struggling with serious behavior issues.

“We are talking about taking what we have and blending in new elements to deal with an issue that is weighting down our school district,” said Steve Joel, superintendent for LPS.  “This is a difficult conversation, because we are not dealing with this as well as we should…We have to do a better job with students who historically struggle…We want all of our students to be more successful.”

Jane Stavem, associate superintendent for Instruction at LPS, noted:  “We are looking to address more needs of our students – students who have behavioral needs.  The concept is to provide comprehensive services for K-12…when we know that our extreme behavior needs are outgrowing our current programs.”

Stavem presented a staff plan – to be phased in over three years – for handling students with the most concerning behavior issues that would include three LPS facilities to host different age groups of students:

• The newly built Sherrill Education Center at 56^th and R streets: Preschool-third grade.
• The former Bryan school north of 40^th and South streets: Fourth-eighth graders.
• The existing Yankee Hill facility at 865 West Burnham: High school students.

LPS would contract for services from Success Schools on a limited basis for a limited period of time, Stavem said.  LPS staff would be trained and the program would run with LPS teachers, therapists and support staff.

“For the fidelity of what we want to do, we need experts,” she explained.  “But at some point LPS will own and maintain this as a Lincoln model…and we will rely on our own trained staff.” 

LPS proposed a three-year rollout that establishes the following timeline:

• Jan-July 2014: Full intensive training for LPS staff; appoint director from Success Schools (for a three- or four-year tenure with LPS); finalize renovation plans for the Bryan facility.
• 2014-15: Full implementation of Success Schools program at Sherrill (with estimated enrollment of 90 students); training and planning for Bryan facility; renovation at Bryan underway.
• 2015-16: Full implementation of Success Schools at the Bryan facility (capacity 150-200 students); training and planning for Yankee Hill facility.
• 2016-17:  Full implementation of Success Schools at Yankee Hill (50 students – fewer number because LPS will catch behavior issues at younger ages).

Additional features of the proposal include:

• Students would attend the behavioral programs for a full day instead of half day.  “Students come to us with more complex needs and a full day would allow them to stay in one spot and not have to handle transitions,” said Jenny Fundus, director of Special Education at LPS. As students gain appropriate skills, they would return to their home schools beginning with half days.
• The goal is to ensure that these students eventually join their peers at their home, neighborhood schools, Stavem stressed.
• Students would have personalized learning plans
• LPS would track interventions and outcomes.
• The programs would focus on parent engagement and community partnerships.
• The program will include targeted therapeutic interventions.
• The program advocates minimum use of seclusion and restraint.

 

 

 

Posted on November 26, 2013

LPS to feature second ‘Learning Lunch’

The public is welcome to come hear the second chapter of Lincoln Public Schools history at the second Learning Lunch presentation scheduled for noon on Tuesday, Dec. 3, in the Board Room at LPS District Offices, 5905 O St.

This new series of bring-your-own-lunch presentations – Learning Lunches – is called Built for Learning: An Architectural Historian’s Perspective on LPS History, and features Ed Zimmer, Lincoln’s historic preservation planner and a member of the Lincoln Board of Education. The topic for this second luncheon is “Built for Learning: The Early 20^th Century, Looking back 100 years at the New Lincoln High School.”

Doors to the Board Room will open at noon, the program will begin at 12:15 p.m., questions-and-answers will happen at 12:35 p.m.   Please bring your own lunch. 

Community members are welcome to stay after lunch for a tour of the new LPS District Office building.

The third lunch is set for Tuesday, Jan. 7 – with more lunches to be scheduled into the spring. 

Posted on November 25, 2013

School Board ponders date of possible bond election

The Lincoln Board of Education met for a work session on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Highlights are below. The next regular meeting for the Board is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 26.  The Lincoln Board of Education is meeting in a series of work sessions this fall to focus on continued discussion to identify the top priorities and potential funding sources for the major facility and infrastructure needs in the school district.

Asking for a special bond issue election early in 2014 – instead of waiting for the May election – could save Lincoln Public Schools more than $900,000, Scott Wieskamp, director of Operations at LPS, told the Lincoln Board of Education Tuesday.

Wieskamp explained that opting for a special election could allow the school district to begin some projects over the summer of 2014 – ultimately tallying up to savings in interest on the bonds by issuing them sooner, as well as money saved in inflation costs on construction.   In addition, a May election would likely cause the school district to postpone some projects: pushing back technology and security projects, as well as the opening for the high school career academy from the fall of 2015 to 2016. 

The Board is putting all the puzzle pieces together to choose between an earlier special election and a regular city election – for the right time to ask Lincoln voters to approve a $150 million in bonds that would fund a wide variety of school projects across the community – without raising the school tax levy.

On Tuesday, Wieskamp summarized the background work that has led up to this point, beginning with a Superintendent’s community Facility Advisory Committee that developed a list of recommended construction and infrastructure projects.  Since then, the Board of Education has been evaluating and analyzing project recommendations and possible funding resources.

“We have more than $350 million worth of needed facility and infrastructure projects in our school district,” Wieskamp said, noting that it has taken hard work and scrutiny to hone down the list to $150 million of affordable projects.

Previously LPS staff presented a list of recommended priorities for the school district’s most essential facility and infrastructure needs: a list that includes one new elementary, one new middle school, a high school career academy and a variety of additions and renovations that would add about 1,000 new elementary “seats” and 800-some new middle school “seats” throughout the school district.  The priorities also include a variety of school projects that would significantly improve and renovate security and technology at schools across Lincoln.

Posted on November 19, 2013

MLK Freedom Breakfast set for Jan. 17

The MLK Freedom Breakfast will be Friday, Jan. 17, 2014 at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 1040 P St. The keynote speaker is Marilyn Johnson-Farr, a professor at Doane College. Doors open at 7 a.m., with the one-hour program beginning at 7:30 a.m.

In recognition of Dr. King’s contribution to our nation and community, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Southeast Community College, and the Lincoln Public School District will again collaborate to host the “Freedom Breakfast.”

Posted on November 19, 2013

Formal Scottish Rite ceremony honors LPS special education teacher

Bev White received her official honors Monday as the 2013 Scottish Rite Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award, one of the most prestigious honors awarded Lincoln Public Schools teachers.

“This is a celebration of excellence,” Kathy Danek, vice president of the Lincoln Board of Education, told the audience at the LPS District Office. “This is a way we say thanks to all the teachers across the school district.”

White now serves with a district-wide support team at LPS District Office, but previously worked at the former Hawthorne Elementary School and Humann Elementary School. 

She has been a leader in the school district, Lincoln and Nebraska for contributing to the innovation of special education practices.

“I’m very proud to be part of this LPS community where education is so important,” White said. “This award represents the strong standards we have for all students…and the goal of ensuring all students be the best and most independent people possible.”

White receives a prize of $2,500 and her photo and story will be featured on the LPS website along with other Scottish Rite winners.

Posted on November 19, 2013

Scottish Rite event to honor Bev White

Posted on November 15, 2013

'Mother' essay contest open to fifth-graders

An essay contest for fifth-graders is seeking entries about mothers. ‘What My Mother Means to Me” is the essay contest sponsored by the American Mothers, Inc., a nonprofit.

The essay is to be 150 words or less. Students will compete against others in their home state, and each state’s winner is forwarded to the national contest. For more information, visit www.americanmothers.org, or email doyles@gpcom.net.

Posted on November 15, 2013

LPSDO drop-off site for Toys for Tots

Posted on November 15, 2013

Teacher's Perspective with Dorann Avey, Lincoln North Star High School

Dorann Avey began teaching in 1999 at Lincoln East High School, she already had experience.

As an accountant.

Her desire to teach business skills rather than just do them for herself led her to East, then Lincoln Northeast High School, and then to open Lincoln North Star High School in 2003.

Avey is the Chair of the Business Department at North Star, and teaches Computer Applications, Business Economics, and Digital Media this semester. (Second semester she’ll teach WebPage Programming, Visual Basic Programming and College Personal Finance.)

As a teacher, Avey loves to try new ideas in presenting curriculum. But on this day, when her teacher website is unavailable for her students to download part of the classroom lesson plans, she must think quickly and adapt. 

Fortunately, being organized is one of her strengths. Managing the classroom keeps the core of the lesson plans in place, and her students on track.

Watch the video to learn more about classroom management, and to hear her perspective on when students start to better grasp the concepts they will need for their future jobs and careers and the value of elective courses.

Posted on November 15, 2013

Dawes Develops Academies for New CLC

Students walked into Dawes Middle School after a hot summer and were greeted with a new Community Learning Center (CLC).

With this new after-school programming, students explore their interests in one of three academies: Sports and Recreation, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and Arts.  Students apply for one of the three academies and enroll in one or more clubs offered in the academy that interests them.

CLC’s, district-wide at Lincoln Public Schools, use collaborative partnerships to create smarter kids, thriving families and strong neighborhoods, and Dawes is taking a new approach to accomplishing CLC goals. Children and families expand their knowledge and horizons through various clubs and intramurals offered by this after-school program.

Dawes administrators worked tirelessly to perfect this new after-school system. At the heart of this advancement is Karen Bell-Dancy, the new CLC director at Dawes, who previously worked at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for six years as the director of Distance Education.  Bell-Dancy originally accepted a job from LPS as a consultant to write a new model for CLC programming and eventually filled the fulltime job as the CLC director at Dawes. 

“Dawes is a unique environment in that we serve a population of students that must overcome many barriers and obstacles to succeed,” Bell-Dancy said.  “I have a love for helping students and families that make up Dawes and believe I can make a difference in their life story.”

The Dawes CLC allows students to learn through project-based experiences and every day Dawes hallways are crowded with students hurrying to their clubs after school, ready for another opportunity of learning.  

Mariah, a seventh grader, builds her photography portfolio by snapping photos of natural landmarks using techniques she learned from her club instructor. Sean, an eighth grader, scrambles to finish his robot for a competition (taking place later that day). Jacobi, a seventh grader, practices his “step” routine consisting of various stomping and clapping combinations in the hallway after school.

The new academy system is a pilot program, and according to Bell-Dancy, the feedback has been “overwhelmingly positive” from parents, students and Dawes staff. The program will continue to prosper and adapt as long as the academies benefit the students and parents at Dawes.

“We are wishful that it will be adopted by all CLC’s,” Bell-Dancy said.

This was written by Benjamin Preston, journalism, advertising and public relations studentUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln

Posted on November 13, 2013

Applications open for Young Artist Awards

The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts is seeking applications for the 17th annual Nebraska Young Artist Awards. 

The Nebraska Young Artist Awards annually recognize 11th grade students from Nebraska who are gifted and talented in the areas of visual art, dance, music, theatre, and film and new media. These students exemplify the pinnacles of creativity in one of the fine and performing arts.

To be recognized, students must submit an application online, which includes uploading a sample of their work and a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Full instructions for the online application process are available athttp://go.unl.edu/nyaa.

Online applications must be submitted by Friday, Dec. 6, 2013.

The applications will be judged by UNL Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts faculty, and the winning students will be invited to a special day of recognition on Wednesday, April 9, 2014.

Honored students will take tours of the arts facilities, attend classes, meet faculty and college students and have lunch. Their parents will also be invited, and they will also take tours, as well as receive information on careers in the arts and college curriculum. The day will conclude with an awards ceremony at Sheldon Museum of Art.

Students selected to participate in the Nebraska Young Artist Awards will also be asked to nominate the teacher who provided them with the greatest amount of mentoring and support in the development of their special talents.

For more information or questions, contact Kathe Andersen at (402) 472-9355 or e-mailkandersen1@unl.edu.

Posted on November 13, 2013

A primer on 2-1-1

Posted on November 13, 2013

For teachers, an educator's guide from Omaha Children's Museum

An Educator's Program Guide for teachers is available from the Omaha Children's Museum. Its outreach program provides lesson plan options, based on state standards and covering varying grade levels at the elementary level.

View the program guide, and contact the museum staff directly for more information.

Posted on November 13, 2013

Board of Education presented with proposed top priorities for LPS facilities/infrastructure projects

The Lincoln Board of Education met for a work session and a regular meeting on Tuesday, November 12, at Lincoln Public Schools District Office, 5905 O St. The next regular meeting for the Board is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 26.

Highlights of Board of Education’s Work Session 11/12:  The Lincoln Board of Education is meeting in a series of work sessions this fall to focus on continued discussion to identify the top priorities and potential funding sources for the major facility and infrastructure needs in the school district.

On Tuesday, Lincoln Public Schools staff presented a list of recommended priorities for the school district’s most essential facility and infrastructure needs: a list that includes one new elementary, one new middle school, a high school career academy and a variety of additions and renovations that would add about 1,000 new elementary “seats” and 800-some new middle school “seats” throughout the school district.

The priorities also include a variety of school projects that would significantly improve and renovate security and technology at schools across Lincoln.

The proposed final list could be funded with a possible bond issue of about $150 million – an amount that would not raise the tax levy rate for Lincoln citizens.

‘The main thing we focused on was growth – growth was crucial in the selection of these projects,” said Scott Wieskamp, director of Operations at LPS.

The Lincoln Board of Education will likely finalize the priorities list – as well as consider a possible bond issue – at the Nov. 26 regular meeting of the Board.  Board member Lanny Boswell asked for additional information about the advantages and disadvantages of holding the bond issue on the regular May ballot or calling for an earlier special election.

Proposed facilities/infrastructure priorities for LPS

Projects increasing capacity to support student growth:

• Construct a new elementary school in southeast Lincoln near 63^rd and Yankee Hill Road (with capacity for about 528 students).
• Construct a new middle school (with a capacity of 800 to 850 students) on a site in southeast Lincoln that would be located near 75^th and Yankee Hill Road (with an adjacent site for the YMCA).  This school would provide relief for Lux, Pound and Scott middle schools.
• Construct a high school career center in partnership with Southeast Community College at 88^th and O streets, and provide for accompanying renovations to maximize space in existing high schools.
• Construct additions to Pershing (6402 Judson), Meadow Lane (7200 Vine St.) and West Lincoln (630 W. Dawes Ave.) elementary schools – creating additional classroom seats.
• Construct an addition, cafeteria and kitchen renovation and indoor air quality project (an IAQ includes general projects that improve air quality such as heating and cooling systems, and more) at Norwood Park Elementary School (4710 N. 72^nd St.).
• Construct an addition and indoor air quality project at Humann Elementary School (6720 Rockwood Lane).
• Renovate the physical education space at Lincoln Northeast High School (2635 N. 63^rd St.) creating a fitness/weight room teaching space to serve larger class sizes.

Projects continuing a commitment to maintenance of existing facilities:

• Perform an indoor air quality project at Irving Middle School (2745 S. 22^nd St.) in conjunction with the City Recreation Center located adjacent to the school.
• Construct a gymnasium addition and renovation of science classrooms at Lefler Elementary School (1100 S. 48^th St.).
• Construct a gymnasium addition and kitchen/cafeteria renovation at Randolph Elementary School (1024 S. 37^th St.).
• Perform improvements at Seacrest Athletic Field (71^st and A streets) including bleacher replacement, press box replacement and surfacing the parking lot.
• Construct a physical education addition at Park Middle School (855 S. 8^th St.).
• Replace bleachers at Lincoln East High School (1000 S. 70^th St.) and Lincoln Northeast High School (2635 N. 63^rd St.)
• Replace windows at Saratoga Elementary School (2215 S. 13^th St.)
• Replace roofs consistent with the school district’s life cycle and maintenance plan.
• Projects (already listed above) at Norwood Park, Humann and West Lincoln elementary schools.

Projects creating the foundation for classroom-ready technology in all LPS schools to support rich teaching and learning opportunities for students:

• Increase the backbone and capacity within schools and LPS facilities to access the fiber optic network across the school district.
• Upgrade cabling, switches, routers and access points to provide reliable wireless internet access across the school district.
• Convert schools to voice-over IP phone technology in remaining sites to accomplish coverage across the school district.
• Outfit classrooms in the school district with the infrastructure necessary to support technology rich teaching and learning by upgrading cabling, switches and electrical outlets to support a plug and learn environment. 

Implementing security solutions to keep our students safe:

• Modify existing schools – where needed – to create secured entrances in the school district.
• Add security card access entries throughout the school district to doors that are used most frequently.
• Purposefully implement cameras in every high school.

Highlights of Board of Education’s regular meeting 11/12

School calendar for 2015-16

The Lincoln Board of Education postponed a final decision on a school calendar for 2015-16, because three Board members were absent. They will make a final decision at the Nov. 26 Board meeting.

Board of Education recognitions

The Lincoln Board of Education passed a special resolution in recognition of Sherry McCranie, a Family and Consumer Science teachers at Lincoln Southwest High School, named Nebraska ProStart Teacher of the Year.

 

 

 

Posted on November 12, 2013

Update on LPS Employees Federal Credit Union

Visit LPS Employees Federal Credit Union for holiday specials. It is located at two locations: 5625 O Street, Suite 106 open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday; satellite location inside the district office 5905 O Street, Room 134 is open from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m Monday through Friday. Visit www.lpscu.com for contact information for both locations.

Posted on November 12, 2013

Help 'ring the bells'

Phil Wolfe, retired Lincoln Public Schools teacher, organizes the Lincoln Public Schools team for ringing Salvation Army bells.

Active teachers and retired teachers as well are encouraged to help out. Two-hour time slots are available, and your children can be with you while bell ringing.

?If you have been a bell ringer in the past or would like to become a bell ringer, visit www.ringbells.org and indicate “LPS Teachers” as your organization on the form. Contact Wolfe at cubwolfe@gmail.com.

Posted on November 12, 2013

Retirement planning sessions offered by LPS Human Resources

Retirement Planning sessions have been scheduled by Human Resources for staff considering retirement at the end of the 2013-14 school year or prior to September, 2014.  If you are planning to retire next spring/summer, we urge you to attend.  If you have not made up your mind on when you are retiring but know it will be in the next few years, the workshop will provide information about the retirement process.

Posted on November 11, 2013

Foundation accepting nominators for outstanding educators

Nomination forms for the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools' Educator Awards are now available online at www.foundationforlps.org/EducatorAwards

Nominations are due by November 15

Florence J. Clark Award for Excellence in Middle School Teaching
Two $3,000 awards to recognize outstanding middle school teachers.

Helen Krieger Outstanding Healthcare Provider Award
$1,000 award to a certified or licensed LPS healthcare provider who provides excellence in healthcare and healthcare education.

John Prasch Health and Physical Fitness Award
$1,000 award to an educator who has made a significant contribution to students’ lives by promoting health and physical fitness.

Marie Bourke Leadership Award
$1,000 award for principals, which includes participation in the Gallup Organization Leadership Program.

R.L. Fredstrom Leadership Award
$1,000 award to recognize outstanding educational leadership or potential for leadership.

Ruth I. Eickman Early Childhood Educator Award
$250.00 award to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of early childhood education.

Posted on November 08, 2013

LPSAOP hosting fundraising event for scholarships

The Lincoln Public Schools Association of Office Professionals is hosting a Runza Dine Out event.

Eat at Runza Restaurant at 13th and E streets between 5 and 8 p.m. on Nov. 12, and LPSAOP will receive 15% of all sales. 

Funds raised will support the LPSAOP Dianne Grieser Memorial Scholarship that awards $1,300 to a current or past LPS student

Posted on November 08, 2013

UNL Multimedia event features student photojournalism work

Posted on November 05, 2013

October events offer educational opportunities, promote Disability Awareness Month

October is Disability Awareness Month, and the Special Education Department in Lincoln Public Schools is presenting three, free educational opportunities for families, teachers,  administrators and interested community partners.

Each workshop will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in the LPS District Office Board Room at 5905 O St.

Mary Phillips, a supervisor in the LPS Special Education Department , said, "It's a good time of year for parents as they are preparing how to transition into adult services."

October 7

Vocational Rehabilitation Services will present on Vocational transition services. Learn how to prepare students for life after high school. This workshop will discuss the new VR process and timelines for the Referral to the Employment Plan. 

October 21

Department of Health & Human Services will present on the DD Eligibility and Appeal Process. This workshop will focus on the DD applicaiton and Appeal process, and the technical assistance that is available to families. There will also be a discussion on ACCESSNebraska and what services are available for children.

November 4

This workshop provides crucial information to parents and students regarding the necessary process of planning for the future as students move through the educational system and prepare for life after school. Planning for careers, high education or adult services need to being early in a student's educational career.

Please call 402-436-1905 to say you plan to attend a session so enough materials can be made available. Workshops are free and open to the public.

Posted on November 01, 2013

Student enrollment at LPS soars with 943 more students

Official Enrollment Numbers by School

Official Enrollment Numbers by Grade Level

Official Enrollment Numbers by School Size

Official enrollment for Lincoln Public Schools soared to 37,845 students for the 2013-14 school year with 943 more learners than last year: growth that equals the equivalent of adding the number of students who attend two average-sized elementary schools. 

That boost represents a 2.5 percent increase in students over last year – students from pre-kindergarten through high school – and a whopping increase of more than 11 percent in the last five years.

The official student enrollment count for LPS is recorded each year on the Fourth Friday of September when numbers are reported to the State Department of Education.

This year’s largest LPS elementary schools are Roper Elementary with 864 students (where an entire annex was constructed recently) and Adams Elementary with 757 students.  The largest LPS middle schools are Lux Middle School with 1,024 students and Scott Middle School with 956.   The largest high school enrollments are at Lincoln Southeast High School where 2,011 students go to school, and Lincoln North Star with 1,977 students.

The poverty rate for LPS also increased this year reaching a record 44.5 percent of all students – compared to 42.5 percent last year – a statistic measured by the number of students on free and reduced lunch. The poverty rate for only LPS elementary students is more than 47 percent.

Trends

The majority – and nearly two-thirds majority – of all schools saw an increase in enrollment: 63 percent of elementary schools, 72 percent of middle schools and 67 percent of high schools.

The smallest grade level in elementary schools (first grade, Class of 2025) is larger than all grade levels in secondary schools. A new state law mandating early kindergarten eligibility dates may have played a role in creating a smaller kindergarten class last year (first grade class this year).

Of the 13th grade levels, the largest six - in terms of student enrollment - are the six elementary grade levels (K-5).

Lincoln Southeast High School, the largest school since 2011-12, grew an additional 4.5 percent, the largest growth of any high school. It also has the highest five year growth as a percentage – 7.3 percent.

Lincoln North Star High School has the second highest growth over five years and over last year, at 7.3 percent and 4.3 percent.

This year’s fourth grade class has been the largest elementary class for all four years – until this year. The kindergarten class – the class of 2026 - takes that spot with 3,149 students.

In 2009-10, there were 2,500 fifth graders. This year, 2,909 and next year could bring even more.

Kloefkorn Elementary School, now in its second year, had a 17.4 percent increase in student enrollment, the largest for elementary schools.

Depending how you look at it, Maxey Elementary School is the benefit of Kloefkorn’s addition to the roster of elementary schools. Its enrollment is down 45 percent from five years ago (2009-10).

Norwood Park Elementary School has grown from 134 students five years ago, to 184 last year, to 219 this year, 38.8 percent and 16 percent growth respectively.

Culler Middle School has grown 38.2 percent in five years, including 12.2 percent over last year. 

Fun Facts:

If the students of Lincoln Public Schools were a city by themselves, it’d be the fifth largest city in the state behind Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue and Grand Island. 

The kindergarten class as a city would be the 45th largest city in Nebraska, one spot behind Waverly.

The smallest class - sophomores, class of 2016 - would be the 50th largest city in the state.

LPS students could fill the new Pinnacle Bank Arena more than two times over (PBA Center Stage capacity listed at 15,900). 

In 1964, nearly 50 years ago, there were 29,980 students in LPS, compared with 37,845 today. The estimated population of Lincoln in 1964 is about 138,000; today it is estimated at about 265,000.

Posted on November 01, 2013

Bubba’s Closet accepting donations for community goodwill effort

Bubba’s Closet, a goodwill effort by the elementary principals of Lincoln Public Schools, is accepting elementary-age clothing that children have outgrown. ?

Clothes to consider donating include warm jackets, pants and shirts, and may be dropped off at the following Hangers locations:

• 2525 Pine Lake Rd.
• 2655 S. 70^th
• 1550 S. Coddington
• 2101 G St

All clothes will be cleaned by Hanger’s at no charge, and sorted by LPS elementary principals, who sponsor this annual event.

Then, on Saturday Nov. 16, donated clothes will be available to the community’s children at the annual Bubba’s Closet event: 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Hartley Elementary School, 730 N. 33^rd St.

Any elementary student, accompanied by an adult, may come and choose appropriate items of clothing to adopt and use – for free. There are no income requirements.  Sacks will be provided by Lincoln Public Schools.

For more information contact Mary Kay Roth, LPS Communications, 402-436-1609.

Posted on November 01, 2013

Ten more city snow plows receive artistic treatment

Ten more City snow plows are sporting blades painted by local students in the second year of the Artistic Snow Plow project. Nine plows were painted last year through the project, a collaboration of the City Public Works and Utilities (PWU) Department and Lincoln Public Schools (LPS).

"This year, we invited schools to create murals based on the theme of community and school spirit," said Clayton Engelman, a PWU Street Maintenance employee who coordinated this year's program. "These newly painted plows along with the ones painted last year are assigned to the participating schools' snow routes so students and teachers can see their plows in action, removing snow and keeping our streets safe."

This year's participating schools are Lincoln High and Lincoln Northeast High; Mickle Middle School; and Prescott, Norwood Park, Saratoga, Hill, Holmes Trinity Lutheran and Kooser Elementary Schools. The schools had three weeks to paint the plows, and some incorporated the project into family fun nights or PTO events to engage the students and their parents.

"Lincoln Public School students have enjoyed this opportunity to connect to their community," said Lorinda Rice, LPS Art Curriculum Supervisor. "This plow project allows our students to meet many LPS curriculum standards - express through art, create art, connect with art and live with art. Teachers love to hear reports that students spotted their school's plow making the streets safe. Understanding how a group's creativity and design can beautify our City on a cold snowy day is the icing on the cake for students and teachers."

The program was initiated last year by Roger Tiedeman, a District Manager in the Street and Traffic Operations Division, who read about a similar program in Wisconsin. Tiedeman proposed the artistic snow plow program as a way to educate the public about the City's 18 snow routes covering nearly 1,200 miles.

Engelman said one of the program's goal is to have all City plows painted. Paints were provided by Sherwin Williams, and the painted plows are sealed with a protective clear coat provided by Lowe's Home Improvement.

Posted on November 01, 2013

Lincoln Recycles Day this Saturday

Lincoln Recycles Day 2013 Events

FREE Document Shred Day – Sat. November 2, 8:30-10:30am

Individuals can bring up to two boxes of confidential documents at no charge from 8:30-10:30 a.m. this Saturday, at these LPS locations:

-      Lincoln High parking lot – 2229 J St

-      North Star High parking lot – 5801 N 33^rd St

-      Southwest High parking lot – 7001 S 14^th St

Paper shredding services have been donated by Recycling Enterprises and Shredding Solutions.

Posted on October 31, 2013