High School Information Night for Eighth Grade Families < Updated

At Lincoln Public Schools, students have an option to choose which high school they would like to attend.  All the high schools provide a high quality educational experience for all their students, but each school also offers different opportunities and programs.

Lincoln Public Schools is offering two information nights for parents and students who want to know more about what options are available in high school. Both sessions are the same and open to the families of ALL students, no matter which high school they plan to attend.

Families may attend either:

Speakers will give information about the process of selecting a high school, LPS Focus Programs (Science, Arts & Humanities, and Bryan), the International Baccalaureate Program at Lincoln High, Air Force Junior ROTC program at Northeast, The Career Academy, Learn to Dream Scholarship Program, and EducationQuest.

Anyone with questions about these special programs or transitioning to high school in general  are encouraged to call the Counseling Center at their planned high school.

Each high school will still be offering open houses for eighth grade families to tour and ask questions before the enrollment deadline. Those dates are in January.

High School Open Houses:

These focus programs will be offering open houses as well for families to get more information:

Posted on September 22, 2016

Vernon-Hansen wins NSPA Service to Children Award

Ursula Vernon-Hansen, School Social Worker who serves Scott Middle School and Hill and Adams Elementary Schools, was awarded the Service to Children Award from the Nebraska School Psychology Association (NSPA).

Each year the NSPA recognizes one individual outside of the profession of school psychology with the Service to Children Award.  This individual is recognized for their efforts and activities that have made a substantial contribution to the lives of children.

Nomination letter by Jill Timmons: 

This candidate is a social worker for Lincoln Public Schools. As such she advocates for and supports students and families through out our community. 

One school psychologist wrote: Ursula creates an environment for children that is based on mutual respect and makes school a safe learning community so that students can concentrate on their individual strengths. Ursula strives to form positive relationships with her students by making it clear that she has her students’ best interests at heart. 

Another school psychologist described Ursula in this way: Ursula strives to give students and their families the best. She is open to trying any intervention to support students and teach them the missing skills. Plus, she does it all with a sense of humor. She is wonderful to collaborate with! She does not silo herself in the Social Work world but collaborates with school psychologists in her work. Her dedication (even after school hours) to students is something to strive for! She is so deserving of this award. 

The coordinator for school social workers wrote: Ursula is a dedicated school social worker who goes the extra mile to connect students and families to resources that will help them be successful. Though her primary responsibility has been to students who are in elementary and middle school she has also worked with high school students at the summer school program. Ursula is the ideal school social worker - competent, ethical, responsible, approachable, trustworthy, conscientious - who seeks opportunities to learn and lead others.

The director of student services wrote: Ursula builds great relationships with students and families. She is an excellent problem solver, caring and patient. Ursula knows the resources available for families and students and goes out of her way to connect the two. Ursula is highly professional and non-judgmental. 

From the first day I meant Ursula in 2002, she welcomed me to my new position and was willing to teach me, collaborate and partner with me as we served our students. Although I no longer get to work by her side, I get to hear about her good work for students from my colleagues who share the same opinion that I do which is this: We are so lucky to get to work with her because she truly has a heart for children. Ursula is not only an amazing social worker, she is an incredible friend! When my son and I experienced personal loss, she came running to our side and fought for and with us like a true warrior. She was there to battle with me, cry with me and laugh with me. She is a true blessing in my life but also to the students she serves. There is no one I can think of who is more deserving of this award than my dear friend and dear colleague.

Posted on September 21, 2016

Mapp receives NSPA Outstanding School Psychologist Award

Jamie Mapp, Psychologist at McPhee Elementary, was awarded the Nebraska School Psychologists Association's (NSPA) Psychologist of the Year.
 
Each year the NSPA awards one member School Psychologist of the Year.  This person demonstrates or has demonstrated contributions to the profession that are of exemplary status.
 
Mapp was nominated by 3 people.  Here are their nominations:
 
Nomination #1 by Hillary Veerhusen

This candidate is outstanding at her tasks given and goes above and beyond expectations when working with students, staff and parents to achieve success and superior amounts of advocacy for her school community and her profession.

Nomination #2 by Ariel Christensen

This candidate is an outstanding school psychologist because she goes above and beyond for her students. She is constantly advocating for her students at home, as well as school and in turn creating a better environment for them to thrive. She is an advocate for the field of school psychology by being a leader and role model for her peers and new psychologists who are still developing their skills. She never hesitates to help or guide her colleagues through tough and tricky situations. As an intern in the field, her guidance has meant a great deal to me. Her knowledge and skills are admirable; she is an exceptional school psychologist and sets a standard all school psychologists should strive to meet.

Nomination # 3 by Jill Timmons

This candidate is currently a co-team leader for Lincoln Public Schools and a full time school psychologist at McPhee Elementary School. As a team leader, she supervises interns each year and does an amazing job supporting and growing their skill set. She has also supervised practicum students. Her interns for the last 2 years contribute their growth and success to her mentorship. At a district level, she provides training each year for administrators, teachers, school psychologists, bus drivers and paras. She co-facilitates monthly professional development meetings for school psychologists. She is a member of our district crisis response team and supports our team by being part of the school psychologist interviews each year. 

At a building level, she is considered part of the leadership team. She is the building leader for SAT, RTI, PBIS, mental health and advocates for students on a daily basis through her work in contacting community services, creating systems level change, individual student plans, monitoring school wide data and direct work with students. In my conversations with her building administrators, they have described her as “critical to their building work.”

I would add that she is “critical” to our district work. Her positive attitude, constant focus on ‘what is best for kids’ and a desire to support, grow and lead others makes her the perfect candidate for School Psychologist of the Year.

Posted on September 21, 2016

Kelley named Geography Teacher Fellow

The American Geographical Society (AGS) has named Ms. Kelley of Lincoln Southwest High School as a 2016 AGS Geography Teacher Fellow. Ms. Kelley is one of fifty teachers selected from across the United States to participate in this first year of the program. The AGS Geography Teacher Program has been made possible by a generous gift to AGS by the Boundless Corporation.

Kelley teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography at Lincoln Southwest High School. As part of the award for being selected as a Teacher Fellow, Kelley will attend the AGS Fall Symposium on November 17 and 18, 2016 at Columbia University in New York City. The Symposium will enable the Teacher Fellows to gain valuable cutting edge content knowledge and awareness of the real-world geographic workplace skills demanded by today’s geospatial companies. The Teacher Fellows will have a unique opportunity to interact with, and become one of, the nation’s thoughtleaders who are involved in the multi-year dialog about the future of geography.

“We are very pleased to be able to have Alison among 50 of the best teachers in the country join us in New York City in November,” said Dr. John Konarski, CEO of the American Geographical Society. “Geography and geospatial science have an effect on just about every aspect of our daily lives. The collective experience and expertise of these Geography Teacher Fellows will help guide the Society as we lead the discussion about the future of geography. In addition, the teachers will be able to bring back to their classrooms, practical and cutting edge information about the latest advancements in the geospatial world. We are so privileged to have these amazing teachers leading the future of geography with us,” added Dr. Konarski.

Posted on September 21, 2016

Maxey kindergarten teacher wins Award for Teaching Excellence

Linda Freye, kindergarten teacher at Maxey Elementary School, was recently named one of 43 public school educators who received the California Casualty Award for Teaching Excellence – one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for public educators.

The educators will be honored at the NEA Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Gala to be held in Washington, DC on February 10, 2017.

The California Casualty Awards for Teaching Excellence are unique: in addition to being recognized for excellence in instructional and professional practice, awardees are nominated by their peers – their National Education Association state affiliate – for their dedication to the profession, community engagement, professional development, attention to diversity, and advocacy for fellow educators.

 “Teachers have to believe in their students and believe that they can learn. I use whatever strategy I need to use to reach a child,” Ms. Freye said. 

Because the NEA Foundation values both professional development and diversity, awardees are invited to participate in its Global Learning Fellowship. Fellows learn how to prepare their students for a connected and multicultural world in this comprehensive, year-long professional development program, which includes an international field study next June.

 “These outstanding educators are innovators, challengers, and global thinkers,” said Harriet Sanford, NEA Foundation President and CEO. “We are delighted that California Casualty joins us once again in expressing our shared admiration and thanks for their work.”

“The California Casualty awardees are the architects of our nation’s future,” said Beau Brown, California Casualty CEO. “We are thrilled for the opportunity to honor them with the California Casualty Awards for Teaching Excellence.”

The Nebraska State Education Association nominated Ms. Freye for the honor. Her school will also receive an award of $650.

Posted on September 21, 2016

Preparations for first Unified Bowling underway

This is the first year for Unified Bowling and several Lincoln teams are getting ready for the first season which begins October 17.  Lincoln Southwest High School describes what's been happening as the team prepares.

With little over a month before practice and competition begin, the Lincoln Southwest Unified Bowling team is getting ready for the inaugural season. Participants met recently for shirt and ball fittings to begin to prepare for the NSAA's newest sanctioned sport.

"It's an incredible opportunity for our school, the district, and the entire state," said head coach Brandi Benson. "I think that this could really be something that brings the school together and starts to create a more socially inclusive culture within the building."

Unified Bowling combines equal teams of students with intellectual disabilities and individuals without intellectual disabilities. Team members are referred to as athletes and partners and bowl using what is known as the Baker format.

"I am so excited to have an opportunity to work with students from my school," said LSW partner Arabelle Jackson. "I look forward to making relationships with my bowling partners and competing with them."

Currently, there are over 40 teams throughout the state that have committed to the first year for the sport. Practices and competitions begin in mid-October and continue to the State Tournament at the beginning of December. A date for State is still being decided.

"What's exciting is that I get to be on a team," said LSW athlete Clint Adams. "I get to make friends and go Hawks!"

 Unified Bowling partner Hunter Paxson gets fitted for a bowling ball by Jason Johnson of Let's Talk Bowling Pro Shop.

Posted on September 21, 2016

LPS hosting six ‘Digital Citizenship’ events this fall

Lincoln Public Schools will host six community events this fall centered around safety in technology and social media. LPS has partnered with Ryan Sothan of the Consumer Protection Division the State Attorney General's office, a state leader in best practices for the use of technology for families and students.

Each presentation is the same, and all are free and open to all ages. Attend the presentation that fits your family's schedule best:

Mickle Middle School - Sept. 22, 6:30 p.m.

Culler Middle School - Sept. 27, 6 p.m.

Scott Middle School - Oct. 3, 6:30 p.m.

Pound Middle School - Oct. 24, 7 p.m.

Park Middle School Nov. 14, 7 p.m.

Schoo Middle School, Nov. 17, 6:45 p.m.

About Sothan’s presentation: Think of “Digital Citizenship: Rules of the Road for Safely Navigating the Information Superhighway” as Driver’s Ed, a primer designed to raise awareness and prepare families and students to drive and interface with today’s information technology—including social media and smartphones—in a safe, responsible, and respectful manner.

About Sothan: As Outreach Coordinator within the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, Ryan has statewide responsibility for developing and implementing community-based initiatives for educating Nebraskans in the areas of consumer fraud, predatory and illegal business practices, and Internet safety.

After each presentation, LPS will have staff available for parents to ask questions regarding technology in schools, including Chromebooks, a student device being rolled out to more students at various levels over the next two years.

Posted on September 21, 2016

Congratulations Jane Stavem!

The L Magazine, a product of Lincoln Journal Star, is featuring women in Lincoln who are in a leadership role. These articles will highlight the kinds of business women who are recognized by the Lincoln Journal Star’s annual Inspire – Celebrating Women’s Leadership program, which culminates with an awards program in September.

Lincoln Public Schools Associate Superintendent for Instruction Jane Stavem was recently featured in the publication. Here is the link to the article in the Lincoln Journal Star: http://journalstar.com/niche/l-magazine/profiles/q-a-with-an-inspiring-woman-dr-jane-stavem/article_e1af1933-89c2-548d-b6fd-2860e8ec9f32.html

Posted on September 20, 2016

Wysong celebrates with official dedication

More pictures and full video of the ceremony coming soon.

Sally Wysong Elementary School – the newest building for Lincoln Public Schools that opened this school year in southeast Lincoln –held an official dedication Sunday afternoon in celebration of a new beginning for students, families and staff, a celebration of community, and a celebration of the woman whose name was chosen for the school.

“Today we celebrate the creation of a community of learning…a place where teachers and parents, family and friends will come together to help our children grow and learn,” Boswell said.  "Today we celebrate Sally Wysong…an advocate of public education and early childhood education.”

Boswell honored Wysong’s legacy, and the many friends and family members who attended the Sunday ceremony – all wearing t-shirts that proclaimed: “Wysong...The Originals.”

"Sally was ahead of her time – understanding the value of providing young people with a rich and meaningful education," Boswell said.

 LPS Superintendent Steve Joel agreed: “Today we honor the work of Sally Wysong, who dedicated her entire career to make sure children would get the very best we could provide. She made a difference.”

 Hadyn Kihm, Wysong’s oldest grandchild, also spoke at the celebration and specifically noted that her grandmother’s maiden name was Goodfriend.  “When the students at Wysong look up at the sign on their school, they will know that they always have a good friend watching over them: My grandma.”

 At the close of the ceremony, Wysong Principal Randy announced the official school mascot and school colors voted on by Wysong students. They will now be known as the Wysong Wolves – with blue and silver colors.

 “We really are a family here at Wysong,” Oltman said. “That is how we do our work.”

Posted on September 20, 2016

Hannah Huston sings Valentine of songs for schools, community

Hannah Huston – the Lincoln preschool teacher who wowed the nation with her performance on the latest season of “The Voice” – sang a song of gratitude to Arnold Elementary School, Lincoln Public Schools and the community Sunday evening at a fundraiser with the Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra presented at The Lied Center for Performing Arts. 

Highlighting the evening, Arnold children joined her on the stage as she serenaded them with “Let There Be Peace on Earth” – a gift to the school where she taught before she took leave last year to compete on the popular television show. 

“I’m so honored Lincoln would put together something like this - for a preschool teacher,” Huston told the audience. “I’m proud to be part of the Lincoln Public Schools family, where they support students in dreaming big dreams – but they also stand by their teachers.”

 In a concert that ran almost two hours, Huston performed many of the songs she performed on “The Voice,” including the blockbuster, “House of the Rising Sun.” 

The night was called, “Welcome Home Hannah Huston,” with a portion of the funds raised going to LPS Early Childhood through the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. 

Huston said it was emotional leaving her classroom kids last year, “but there are so many things a person can love. I love teaching and I love singing.”

Posted on September 19, 2016

Constitution Week September 17-23

September 17-23 is Constitution Week and schools all over Lincoln kicked off the week with special events. 

Constitution Week, which also includes Constitution Day and Citizenship Day on September 17, is an American observance to commemorate the adoption of the United States Constitution. The purpose of the observance week is to promote study and education about the constitution which was originally adopted by the American Congress of the Confederation on September 17, 1787.

"Constitution Day and Citizenship Day is important to help students understand and celebrate the rights and freedoms we have in our country," said Jaci Kellison, K-12 Social Studies Curriculum Specialist for Lincoln Public Schools. "It gives teachers and students time to explore and reflect on our nation's democratic ideals and aids in preparing our students to be engaged, active, and informed citizens."

Check back as we will be adding video and pictures of our different classroom celebrations all week long. 

Posted on September 16, 2016

Kicking off LPS Live: Board Preview

Recording of LPS LIVE: Board Preview on 9/13/16

On September 13, we kicked off a new Facebook Live broadcast to preview the Board meeting agenda with Board President Don Mayhew and Vice President Connie Duncan.

Before each Board meeting at appoximately 5:40 p.m., Mayhew will sit down with a Board member and they will talk about issues that will be appearing on that night's agenda. If there is time, they will also answer viewer questions that are posted on the Facebook feed.

If you are interested in watching, go to the LPS Facebook Page and click on the video, or watch for our live broadcast beginning at 5:40 p.m. before Board meetings.

The next show will be on Tuesday, September 27, at 5:40 p.m.

Posted on September 14, 2016

Making connections through interactive media

“This year it won’t be so easy for people to just walk on by.”

That’s what Lincoln Public Schools district media coordinator Chris Haeffner wants any way when MOSAIC goes on display at the district office September 6 - 15, and later as it rotates through area schools over the next two years.

MOSAIC is a collection of multicultural literature selected by a committee to help students make connections with the many different cultures from around the world. This year, MOSAIC is modernizing with more hands-on and interactive displays to help create more connections with the books.

Over 280 titles will be part of the interactive displays which will include things like:

• QR codes on the books and readers so students can watch video clips related to the stories;
• Augmented reality viewers with virtual tours loaded on them;
• Building blocks with specialized pieces from different cultures;
• Cards with QR codes so students can watch popular music videos from around the world;
• Or Chinese calligraphy mats and instructions.

“It took a lot of hours for our staff to research the multimedia support for each title and then compiling them all together,” added Haeffner. “Our hope is to get them to stop and look more deeply at the literature, giving them a richer experience and a deeper connection.”

The display will be at the LPS district office located at 5905 O Street in Lincoln and is open and free to the public during regular office hours. Click here to see all of this year’s titles selected for MOSAIC.

Posted on September 13, 2016

ConnectED turns student IDs into city library cards

Surrounded by the many books of McPhee Elementary School Library, Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler and Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Steve Joel announced a new partnership to provide all LPS students with access to the resources of the Lincoln City Libraries, including high-speed Internet access.

"Lincoln is a city that values education, and we are proud of our excellent public libraries and public schools," Beutler said. "The ConnectED Library Challenge is another way we are working as partners to help our children become adults who are engaged in the community and who participate in our culture of innovation."

Through ConnectED, LPS students will have an account with Lincoln City Libraries using their school identification numbers. The project will start during the 2016-2017 school year with students in three pilot schools — McPhee and Norwood Park Elementary Schools and Lefler Middle School. The goal is to extend Connect ED accounts to all LPS students for the 2017-2018 school year. This will allow them to check out materials and to access information through the library's website, lincolnlibraries.org.

"This partnership will encourage students to be lifelong learners, increase student achievement and help us make sure our students are ready for their future after graduation," said Joel. "This collaborative project also expands our participation in Prosper Lincoln by supporting early childhood education, employment skills and innovation. This is one more way for us to support children and families in our community, making sure that every Lincolnite has the opportunity to read and learn every day."

LPS Board President Don Mayhew added, “This initiative enhances classroom experiences by providing students with access to homework help, magazines and encyclopedias, and a variety of other electronic resources. For example, our high school students will be able to access car repair manuals online and locate more science, technology, psychology, legal, and medical information from their Chromebooks. These diverse resources will assist our students as they prepare to be college and career ready.”

Posted on September 08, 2016

EHS teacher selected for NARSP scholarship

Matt Maw, Business Education and Technology teacher at Lincoln East High School, has been selected as one of two recipients of the 2016-2017 Nebraska Association of Retired School Personnel (NARSP) Active Educator Scholarships.  The scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each are awarded annually to an active educator working toward an advanced degree or endorsement in a related field of education.  Mr. Maw previously taught at Lincoln Southeast High School.

By offering the scholarships to active educators in the field, NARSP members have an opportunity to “maintain professional contacts and to develop new ones” with the district, schools, and educators in and around the communities of the local units. 

The NARSP Executive Board reviewed a total of ten quality semi-finalist applications from nine local units.

Matt Maw is pursuing a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership at Doane University.  The Lincoln Area Retired School Personnel submitted his application.

Mr. Maw received his Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Sciences degree with a Business, Marketing, Information Technology, and Diversified Occupations endorsement from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  Matt has also earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Doane College.  He has been an educator for six years.

On his application essay, Matt noted, “I am currently pursuing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership.  This degree will be my second Master’s, with my other degree being a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.  I strive to combine the leadership skills developed in my current program with my knowledge of curriculum gained from my prior Master’s to be more effective in the classroom and serve as an instructional leader within business education.  I hope to further engage colleagues and students while creating a culture allowing everyone to be successful in reaching individual learning goals.”

One of the references indicated, “One of Mr. Maw’s strengths is his strong academic focus.  He sets high stands for himself and his students.  Mr. Maw has a great rapport with his students.  He is easy to approach and ready to assist students when they need extra help.”

Matt is an active member of the school and district professional learning communities.  He is a member of and actively involved in a number of professional organizations at the local, state, regional, and national levels.  He also volunteers and participates in a variety of community service projects and activities.                                   

Posted on September 07, 2016

Big Ticket Week set for Sept. 6-10

Students in elementary and middle school can get free admission to an athletics event during the annual Big Ticket Week. This year, the week is Sept. 6-10, and the free admission applies to any LPS-sponsored athletic event with an adult’s paid admission.

Download here

Below are the events eligible for free admission during Big Ticket Week:

Tuesday, Sept. 6

5 p.m. - North Star vs. Southwest - Softball, All Levels - Doris Bair Complex

5:30 p.m. - Grand Island vs. Lincoln High - Volleyball, all levels - Lincoln High Gyms

5:30 p.m. - East vs. Southeast - Volleyball, all levels - Southeast Gyms

5:30 p.m. - Norfolk vs. North Star - Volleyball, all levels - North Star Gyms

Thursday, Sept. 8

9 a.m. - Southeast Invitational - Varsity Girls Golf - Holmes Golf Course

4 p.m. - Fremont vs. East - Varsity Boys Tennis - Woods

5 p.m. - Fremont vs. North Star - Softball, All levels - Doris Bair Complex

5 p.m. - Columbus vs. Lincoln High - Softball, V & JV - Doris Bair Complex

5 p.m. - Bellevue West, Marian vs. Southeast - V & JV - Southeast Gyms

5:30 p.m. - Burke vs. Northeast - Volleyball, all levels - Northeast Gyms

7 p.m. - Bellevue West vs. North Star - Varsity Football - Seacrest Field

Friday, Sept. 9

7 p.m. - Southeast vs. East - Varsity Football - Seacrest Field

7 p.m. - Papillion-La Vista South vs. Lincoln High - Varsity Football - Beechner Field

Saturday, Sept. 10

9 a.m. - North Star vs. Southeast - JV Football - Seacrest Field

Posted on August 31, 2016

Annual LPS Saltdogs game brings excitement, creates memories

Haymarket Park filled with voices of excitement and laughter, music and cheers as approximately 3,000 Lincoln Public School fifth grade students attended the annual Saltdogs Game field trip.

“The biggest thing is we actually have an opportunity this year to bring every single school to the ballpark,”  said Matt Avey, LPS curriculum specialist for Health and Physical Fitness. “We’ve done this for nine years, but it’s nice to finally get every fifth grader on the same page - all 39 schools out here enjoying the day at Haymarket Park.”

It is an annual ritual of lessons in character, sportsmanship and good fun.

“Obviously we want the kids to have fun, but there’s some teachable moments here. We’re really trying to get the kids to understand not only the importance of physical activity, but how to participate in a positive manner as a spectator. That’s a component of the character education piece we teach our kids,” Avey commented.

The students played a big part in the day’s activities. Prescott Elementary performed the Star Spangled Banner. Each school had a student representative serve as “Watchdogs” - students who get to follow players onto the field during introductions. Leo from Norwood park was chosen as the mini-manager, providing the line up to the umpires and start the game with the traditional “Let’s play ball!” Students also became junior professional announcers and participated in the between inning games on the field.

Avey added, "I’m excited to see all these smiling faces on our kids today. This has become a great tradition for Lincoln Public Schools - something kids look forward to from the time they start kindergarten and one of their greatest memories at graduation time.”

Highlights from the day: 

Facebook LIVE broadcast at the beginning of the game:

Posted on August 25, 2016

ACT scores continue strong with all LPS juniors taking test

For immediate release

ACT scores for Lincoln Public Schools continued strong and steady with results from the fifth year of a pilot program in which all LPS high school juniors now take the college-ready test for free.

“Taking the ACT has become part of the culture in our school district,” according to Jane Stavem, associate superintendent for Instruction at LPS, noting that these scores mark a record for the most LPS students taking the test. “And we are holding firm in our scores with a population of students that continues to grow and change.”

As LPS student enrollment increases, more high school juniors take the test every year – 2,351 took the test last year – while the composite test score has remained steady with the same composite score over the past three years. In fact, of the states in the top third for participation in the ACT, Nebraska is first in composite scores by almost a full point.

Jadi Miller, director of Curriculum at LPS, said she is especially proud that LPS juniors take this test seriously. “The day we administer the ACT is one of the highest attendance days of the school year for high school juniors…Our kids are really invested in this, they see this as an opportunity.”

Before the pilot program began, only about 65 percent of LPS graduates took the ACT, but now virtually 100 percent take the test, one of the most common standardized college entrance examinations, according to Leslie Eastman, director of Assessment and Evaluation for LPS.

In April of 2012, LPS started participation in the pilot of what is called the District Choice in-School Testing (DCST) program for the state of Nebraska in which all LPS juniors take the ACT at no cost on a regularly scheduled school day (as opposed to the previous process of paying for the test and taking it on a Saturday morning).

Eastman said that each year, high school counselors share stories about kids who took the ACT – who would not have taken it if the test were not administered free at school – and who have obtained scholarships and are heading for college.

“I think of the realization that certain states only test 20 percent of their juniors…and there’s the possibility for missing a kid who is potentially ready to go to college,” said Sarah Salem, director of Continuous Improvement and Professional Learning. “Our school district is finding the potential in every single kid.”

Posted on August 24, 2016

LNE raises the rocket once again

(Full video of the LIVE broadcast below)

Students, past and present, along with staff and other local dignitaries gathered on the front lawn of Lincoln Northeast High School at 8:00 a.m. under the glistening new black and silver rocket sculpture.

Replacing what was lost 26 years ago, principal Kurt Glathar said when people think of Northeast they think of rockets.

“I hope you will remember this day that we have created...When you come back in ten years, in 20 years and 30 years from now, I fully believe this rocket will be standing proud - welcoming new students and alumni alike,” said Glathar. “Today take pride in being a rocket, it’s a symbol that will live on for a long time and we’ll be very proud of it and I appreciate all of you being here today to help us dedicate it.”

Jim Campbell, retired teacher and LNE alumni spoke to the crowd about what being a rocket was all about.

“Rocket starts with the letter R, and the R in rocket stands for respect...The second letter is O, opportunity...C is a letter that becomes community...K, I think for us as we talk about it is kinship...E is for education...T is for the teachers and teamwork...S is the most important thing, students. It’s the students who make this school,” said Campbell.

Nebraska state senator Matt Hansen read legislative resolution 620 which officially recognized Northeast High School for celebrating their 75 years.

Other dignitaries who spoke talked about the symbol of the rocket and what it means to Northeast:

• Don Mayhew, school board president: “Today, this high school stands tall and strong, and how fitting for it’s symbol to be a rocket. Named after the famous local train the Rock Island Rocket. You think of the power of those engines, of the modern technology behind those engines, and you think of the power of public education in our lives.”
  
  
• John Neal, LNE alumni and assistant to the superintendent: “As an alumnus, the rocket symbolizes the role the rocket played for me and will play for you - as the launching pad for your future. It will provide a stable foundation as you go off to college and a career.”
  
  
• Jason Lemon, alumnus and raise the rocket committee chair: “The last time I got goosebumps this big, Marian Price was handing me my diploma back in 1990. Kurt, when we started this project, you were Principal Glathar to me. 216 emails, 113 phone calls, 6 text messages and 23 visits to your office later I’m now proud to call you my friend. Thank you. To every person who has worn the black and white before me, and those who will do so after...once a rocket, always a rocket!”

Glathar also wanted thanked the many community volunteers that made the project possible.

“We have many people to thank for this unselfish contribution. The planning and design committee Jason Lemon, Clayton Heath and his wife Wendy, Reed Stephenson and Doug Weatherholt. Ayars & Ayars, Inc. donated the labor in laying the pad, the arch and placing the rocket. Dan Leosing donated the labor and the paint. Rivers Metal Products, Inc. hand built the rocket. Mike Eisenbarth, engineer, donated his time designing the base and the supporting structures. U.S. Bank and LPS Foundation helped with donations to help kick off the project.”

Posted on August 22, 2016

Lux science teacher finds 'glowing' success

Our teachers don’t take the summer off, most are participating in classes and professional development. Lux Middle School science teacher Rich Powers participated in the Research Experiences for Teachers program at UNL. He describes what he did this summer below:

I was selected to participate in a Research Experience for Teachers (RET) with UNL's Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC). The goal of the RET is to provide teachers experience working on a research program during the summer, gaining first-hand experience with cutting–edge research and modern technologies. 

I was working with Dr. Alex Sinitskii in Chemistry and Dr. Axel Enders in the Physics department. The initial goal of our project was to easily make an inexpensive glowing (photoluminescent) substance in the chemistry lab and then to apply that substance onto a conductive surface. We were very successful at making and applying the material. This research may one day be used to produce cheap flexible solar cells. 

For the last decade, science education has emphasized the move towards "three dimensional learning". (Three dimensional learning blends the subject content with scientific and engineering skills and the concepts that occur across all science domains). My RET experience provided valuable insights into scientific and engineering practices, as well as the conceptual connections between them. 

I will share and model these practices and connections with my students and require them to ask questions, solve problems, and design solutions in the classroom. I will also invite MRSEC members to visit my classes throughout the year, bringing hands–on science activities and showing examples of how materials research affects their lives. It will also be really beneficial to show students what real scientists and engineers do on a daily basis and encourage students to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning pursuits and professions. 

Pictures: (Photo 1 - Powers in the lab making perovskite, Photo 2 - Perovskite photoluminescing, Photo 3 - Printed Nebraska N-shaped perovskite photoluminescing)

Posted on August 19, 2016

Donation to Eastridge turns into walk down memory lane

Before school kicked off, residents of the Country House at 70th and O street collected and donated 24 backpacks full of school supplies to Eastridge Elementary School. The backpacks will be given to students who qualify for the backpack food program to carry their food home each week.

When the Country House dropped of the donations, the residents were given a personal tour by principal Deb Dabbert. Come to find out, one of the visitors had made a big impact on Dabbert.

“It was fun for me to recognize Ann Powers, a former LPS teacher, and share with her that she was an inspiration for me as a young teacher,” said Dabbert.

The school has invited the residents to join them for their afternoon winter and spring music concerts and student success assemblies.

Posted on August 19, 2016

Embracing all cultures at Culler

Teachers at Culler Middle School became students during a special presentation when staff reported back to work.

Parents participating in the family literacy program at Culler Middle School this summer were given an opportunity to speak with Culler teachers during staff development on August 9. The activity was coordinated by principal Gary Czapla and family involvement specialist Ever Preciado.

The presenters volunteered to share their holidays, dress codes, and facts about the education system in their countries. Families also prepared food from their countries for the educators to try.

“This is a one million dollar opportunity,” said Preciado. “When you can meet one on one with them and hear their stories, and what their dreams are for their children.”

Czapla said this information will help staff understand the students and families they serve every day.

“The thing that stuck out to me was when getting a phone call from the school, they think it’s because the school needs money,” added Czapla. “We need to rethink how we communicate. It is important to slow down and use translators to send home accurate information.”

After the presentation, staff agreed that it would be a challenge coming to a new country, not speaking the language or knowing the culture while trying to be successful.

“I think it really shows how we need to embrace the whole community. It shows how scary it is coming into the United States, and not knowing the school system. This is a way for them to know the expectations of the school system and become part of the Culler Middle School family,” said teacher Renee Bohaty.

This is the fourth year for the family literacy summer classes, and proves to be the most successful yet. With an 87% attendance rate, there were 34 families representing 16 countries and 11 different languages.

During the summer classes, students move through four levels learning about Nebraska and U.S. culture, different holidays that are celebrated and English.

Posted on August 18, 2016

Lefler staff learn how poverty impacts students, parents

Students can face a number of challenges before they even step foot in the classroom. In an effort to better understand what students and families may face daily, the Lefler School Improvement Planning (SIP) team reached out to The Food Bank and Leadership Lincoln to provide Bridges Out of Poverty Training for Lefler staff the week before school started.

“The last two years we have been focused on learning how trauma and poverty can impact students at school,” said principal Jessie Carlson. “The School Improvement team started to reach out to our community to see what resources were out there and who could provide this training.”

Staff spent the entire day at the Food Bank’s Child Hunger Center. In the morning they participated in a poverty simulation facilitated by Leadership Lincoln, enabling participants to look at poverty from a variety of angles and then to recognize and discuss the potential for change within their local communities.

During the simulation, participants role-played the lives of low-income families. Some were Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients, some were disabled, and some were senior citizens on Social Security. They had the stressful task of providing for basic necessities and shelter on a limited budget during the course of four 15-minute “weeks.” They interacted with human service agencies, grocers, pawnbrokers, bill collectors, job interviewers, police officers and others.

“Each staff member had their own different experience. Afterwards, they realized as teachers we sometimes get frustrated students don’t have their homework done, but these families are just fighting to meet their basic needs each day and don’t have time to do many other things,” added Carlson.

Carlson credits SIP co-chair Dawn Holsten with creating the successful experience for the staff.

“It’s really important we integrate cultural proficiency and understand where our kids come from if we are going to help them be successful,” said Holsten. “We needed to break out of our comfort zones. You get so focused in your own world, sometimes you don’t see where everyone else comes from.”

In the afternoon, staff became students as they discussed their experiences and learned more about the hidden rules and mental models that exist within each economic class. Bridges Out of Poverty is a lesson in empathy, not sympathy, and understanding. All socioeconomic classes are called upon to view the same topics from perspectives different than their own as a step to address root causes of poverty.

Continuing with the theme through the school year, staff have been given a journal to write and share their experiences.

Holsten added, “The journal has two parts. We want staff to branch out into the community and learn more about the kids we serve and reflect about it in their journal. We also want them to keep a gratitude journal, shifting the perspective from ‘things that would be better if’ to ‘I’m thankful I have this’.”

Carlson thinks this really made an impact on her staff this year.

“They left with some powerful take aways. This evoked emotion, and when we have that, we learn in a different way.”

Posted on August 18, 2016

LPS Leadership Day opens official 2016-17 school year

Speaking to hundreds of Lincoln Public Schools leaders on Monday, Superintendent Steve Joel urged them to remember and proclaim the power of public education in our community.

“We continue to make a difference in the lives of children – that’s our work and that’s our legacy,” Joel said at the annual LPS Leadership Day event held at Lincoln Southeast High School this year. “This is hard work...But at the end of the day…this is the best investment that the Lincoln community can make.”

Joel stressed four important aspects of the power of public education:

• Great public schools challenge students and staff to learn about themselves and others – ultimately making them career and college ready when they leave LPS.
• Great public schools provide choices and options that connect learning to life. “We continue to look for new ways to connect kids to opportunities that are meaningful.”
• Great public schools encourage staff and students to persevere through all types of challenges and never give up. “We never ever give up on kids.”
• Great public schools embrace diversity and remind us: ALL MEANS ALL. “That’s what separates public education from everything else…We take all students every single day.”
• Southeast Principal Brent Toalson also welcomed the leaders to Southeast, urging everyone to “take this year to inspire excellence in all of our students.”

Don Mayhew, president of the Board of Education, noted that there is unprecedented support of public education in the Lincoln community – support that is well earned: “Each day public educators have the chance to raise up our children – to open the door to their future – to provide a free opportunity for unique and innovative programs that make their lives richer. I wish you a great school year with meaningful experiences and opportunities. Please remember the greatness of your work.”

Posted on August 01, 2016