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EdNotes Express
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.
First '5905' move-in date just three weeks away < Updated
News reporters stood on the third floor in a “break room” for the new Lincoln Public Schools District Office building Monday morning – at 5905 O St. – in a news conference update to keep the community informed of construction progress.
In three weeks, the first wave of LPS employees will be moving into that floor – as LPS District Office workers return to 59th and O streets – after two years located in sites around the city due to a fire that destroyed the school district’s administrative headquarters.
“It will be a joyful, emotional time, we’ve been gone for two years and I know everyone is looking forward to this,” said Scott Wieskamp, director of Operations for LPS, who led the tour. “I think everyone will be pleased to be home and back to business as usual.”
The news reporters got a sneak preview of the second and third floors: offices, cubicles, break rooms and a significant increase in available meeting and conference rooms.
Construction is on schedule and costs are under budget, Wieskamp reminded reporters. Construction of the new facility did not require any taxpayer money – most of the cost was covered by insurance money, and sale and rent of space on the site (available since the new building is three floors instead of one).
Wieskamp pointed out the lower cubicle walls and multitude of windows – allowing much more natural light in the building. He pointed out additional security systems to keep staff safe. He said cooling units will be turned on this week to begin making environments comfortable for work.
LPS employees will move into the new building in three waves over three weekends, from the third floor down: Third floor will move in July 8, second floor on July 15 and first floor, July 22.
“After that we’ll be fully occupied,” Wieskamp said.
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Jon Heithold, Lincoln East High School < Updated
Spend a day in Jon Heithold’s classes at Lincoln East High School and you will hear dozens of local places mentioned for their design, their history and their purpose.
It’s an aspect of his computer-aided design classes that brings life to the walls, chairs and machines that his students design.
It’s also an important part of problem-solving, something he believes is a desired skill.
“I think so much of what we hear anymore is putting someone out there in the workforce that is a problem solver,” Heithold said. “You are given parameters, you are given some constraints, given some criteria, and it’s what you do with all that to lead you and your team of people to come up with a solution.
“Usually (students) work from a design brief, of sorts: here’s the scope of the project, here’s the problem at hand, here are the constraints. We try to empathize that the problem is there is not always one answer. With design there is good, and there is better.”
During the latest Teacher’s Perspective video, Heithold talks about marketing the opportunities of his elective field of study to students and others, making the case for an important field of study and the opportunities abound for students pursuing the field as a possible career.
“There are abounding opportunities in some of these technology areas,” Heithold said. “And there just a ton of opportunities in terms of good careers, viable salaries that can be even after two years of further education beyond high school, they can be gainfully employed working the engineering architectural field. And more than likely they are going back to get that four-year degree, have their employers paying for it. Trying to get that message across is a big part of the day.”
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Marcella Sanchez-Nelsen, Lincoln Southeast HS < Updated
An hour before most high school students in Lincoln Public Schools arrive for class, Spanish students in Marcella Sanchez-Nelsen’s 7 a.m. class are engaged.
Fortunately, students who sign up for her early class at Lincoln Southeast High School are already showing self-motivation. But for all students taking the required foreign language classes, even those who don’t love it, the process of learning another language builds appreciation for all those who try.
“A lot of students come and take two years (of Spanish), but they don’t take it because they really want to learn it,” Sanchez-Nelsen said. “I guess after two years, I would think they would have appreciation for how hard it is to learn another language.”
Sanchez-Nelsen holds class with a fast pace (both in lessons and by talking quickly) she repeats key points of the day’s lesson multiple ways, and keeping the classroom energy at a high level.
“I feel younger actually, most days,” she said. “They have to be at school but they should have friendly people there that should help them learn. I have never lost that joy. It’s energizing. I don’t see myself losing my passion for teaching so I think it was a good decision.”
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Sarah Cal, Pound Middle School Art Teacher < Updated
Sarah Cal believes art stands for something larger than the finished product. It’s a combination of art skills and knowledge, of problem solving and understanding, and of collaboration and creativity.
Cal is an art teacher at Pound Middle School, the same school she attended as a young student in sixth, seventh and eighth grades.
Now, as a teacher at Pound, her classroom is organized, everything has its place. Even the expectations of the students are grounded in a way that fosters both teamwork and independence.
“I’m also very relational,” Cal said. “One of my favorite parts of my day is my recess duty, building relationships with kids. As an art teacher you have a lot of students after school, not because they are in trouble, but because they really want to work.”
Every lesson has a rationalization, some less obvious than others. She is constantly praising those who are doing the little things correctly, boosting their self-esteem and setting an example for the other students.
“Kids thrive off being given a choice,” she said. “They thrive off being able to take ownership of it.”
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Lindsey Luly, Schoo Middle School < Updated
Lindsey Luly knows middle school students learn best when they are active and engaged. But that doesn’t mean she was always comfortable with ‘organized chaos’ that can result from class activities.
Luly, a science and math teacher at Schoo Middle School, 700 Penrose Dr., blends her willingness to let kids be active learners with her ability to teach the same subject in a variety of ways.
It works well in her math class, which focuses on keeping students on track with their regular math class while reviewing materials the students have struggled with.
Not bad for someone who started college with the plan of being an optometrist.
“I realized it wasn’t what I wanted to do, but with the science background I found myself in science education and I love it,” Luly said. “I’m so glad this is where I am right now.”
In the latest Teacher’s Perspective video, Luly tells us how she knows when she’s had a good day teaching.
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher’s Perspective: Ryan Salem, Lincoln Southwest High School < Updated
Ryan Salem is having a great year:
- He’s a government and history teacher during a Presidential election year,
- He's teaching a subject he knows and loves,
- He’s also a coach for another activity he loves: cross country.
Salem let LPS Communications follow him for a "normal" day - if there is such a thing for a teacher - at Lincoln Southwest High School, 7001 S. 14th St.
The school’s block scheduling allows him to incorporate multiple teaching techniques into period of about 90 minutes.
Watch the video to understand how Salem approaches teaching very current and historical events.
This video is the first in a series called ‘Teacher’s Perspective.’
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Carrie Lautenschlager, Adams Elementary School < Updated
The fourth grade. That's when Carrie Lautenshlager knew she wanted to be a teacher. From her first-thing-in-the-morning fist-bump welcomes with her students to her seeing off students after school is out, she is engaged, laughing and organized.
She lays out the day's lesson plans, then gives careful directions before each assignment. She encourages students sharing ideas with each other when appropriate, but identifies other times where its important each student develops their own ideas.
No matter what the subject area, Lautenschlager brings an contagious energy to the classroom, keeping her students alert and on task. Even for a practice assessment test, she believes bringing a positive attitude is the first key to success.
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Cyndi Tyler, Meadow Lane Kindergarten Teacher < Updated
Today’s kindergartners are last decade’s first graders. For Cyndi Tyler, a current kindergarten teacher and former first-grade teacher, it’s quite evident.
More from the Teacher's Perspective series:
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In the latest Teacher’s Perspective video, Tyler reveals the joys of teaching kindergarten at Meadow Lane Elementary, 7200 Vine St.
While the curriculum changes, the children don’t. They come with different learning experiences, different maturity levels and different talents waiting to be unveiled.
“I always say ‘Come into my classroom and see what it’s like, see my classroom, see what my children are doing’,” Tyler said. “Kindergarten isn’t about playing and snack time and laying down and resting, but the kids are engaged an actively learning.”
This year, for example she has “22 kindergartners, 5 and 6 years old and they are writing and reading and adding and figuring out how to become independent learners.”
Tyler lays out the schedule, provides tasks for the students to complete then works with small groups of students or one-on-one. She even lets a student guide the rest of the class through math review as they count together.
And all this leaves Tyler wondering how she ever taught kindergarten when it was a half-day schedule.
Posted on June 17, 2013
Teacher's Perspective: Eric Vacek, Kahoa Elementary P.E. teacher < Updated
As Physical Education teacher, Eric Vacek teaches every student at Kahoa Elementary School, 7700 Leighton Dr. Even at 45 minutes per class every few days, Vacek understands the power of relationships between teachers and students.
The school’s own mission statement specifically mentions wellness.
It reads: ‘Fostering academic excellence and wellness for all students in a safe and caring environment.’
Having a connection plays an especially key role in P.E. throughout Lincoln Public Schools, which stresses lifetime wellness. Vacek, a competitor in bicycle races, routinely sees and hears of students at their own competitive events, and can be found participating in various wellness activities with his family.
Through these interactions, students and families can see that Kahoa personally believes in what he teaches, strengthening that connection.
On this particular day in May, the lifetime wellness activity is golf, and he is using The First Tee National School Program, which are developed by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education.
“This is a program that I've been trained in and continually go to update trainings for,” Vacek said. “The focus of the program is to establish a lifelong interest in golf by engaging young people in a structured golf curriculum that promotes personal character development within a physical education setting.”
Posted on June 17, 2013
ExCITE fills early childhood years with appropriate learning opportunities
Note: Starting about mid-July, the ExCITE Office will be located at 5905 O St.
Lincoln Public Schools believes the early childhood years are critical exciting times in children’s lives. During these formative years, families, educators, and communities join together as educational partners to provide safe, caring, stimulating learning environments, which actively engage developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive practices.
ExCITE (Early Childhood Infant Toddler Educare) Early childhood program services have multiple funding streams including Head Start, Title I Preschool, State-Funded preschool, State Aid-Funded preschool, HHS, and special needs funding. Along with preschool programs for children ages three and four, services include infant/toddler learning centers for teen parents and their children, and home visitation programs.
Comprehensive services in the areas of Parent Involvement, Nutrition, Health, Social Services, Education and Disabilities are provided in a developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive manner.
What does EXCITE offer?
- For pre-school children and their families EXCITE provides:
- Opportunities to socialize, solve problems, and experience success,
- People who care, accept, and encourage,
- Home visits which focus on the family,
- A variety of learning experiences in a safe, caring setting,
- Health screenings,
- Practice of good habits in eating, tooth brushing, cleanliness, and safety,
- Partnerships for parents in volunteering, leadership, and development,
- Help for special needs of children with disabilities, and
- Assistance in using community resources.
For more information, including forms, frequenty asked questions with answers, and locations, visit the ExCITE webpage.
Posted on June 13, 2013
LPS names Wright as security director
Lincoln Public Schools announced Thursday that Joe Wright – currently a captain with the Lincoln Police Department – has been named the new security director.
Wright has worked with the Lincoln Police Department since 1986.
“We received over 60 applications for this position, many of whom were experienced in safety and security,” said Nancy Biggs, associate superintendent for Human Resources. “Everyone who assisted us with the interview process was pleased with our candidate selection and we feel we have found the ideal person for the position.”
She continued: “As a career police officer, Mr. Wright brings with him an existing relationship with first responders in our community. In addition, he is often the media contact for LPD so brings this experience to LPS.”
Wright said: "I'm looking forward to helping LPS build on to an already strong safety and security effort.”
Former LPS Security Director Bill Keuhn has retired, and the position has been revised and expanded.
Posted on June 13, 2013
Childs honored with regional administrator award
Nancy Childs, retiring art curriculum specialist for Lincoln Public Schools, has been honored as the 2013 NAEA Western Region Supervision and Administration Art Educator of the Year! She was honored with a Board Resolution at a June board meeting.
Watch video from November 2011 telling the story of the LPS connection with the Sheldon Museum of Art on the campus of the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Childs speaks at the 24:25 mark.
EXPLANATION:
Nancy Childs is the curriculum specialist for Art for Lincoln Public Schools. Childs helps teachers and staff understand new national and state standards, which are being rewritten for next year, and how they blend with what they already know about teaching. Her work with state and national organizations demonstrate her willingness to share and receive high quality knowledge of best practices in art education.
She works under the motto of “making the world a safe place for art.”
“This requires that I keep appraised of current trends in education so that I can keep art teachers current in their conversations and in their classrooms. It is easy for folks to say they make pretty pictures in art. But we do so much more on that. We have a sharp focus on the development of the use of the creative process.”
That creative process is useful to students even when they are in art class, in Math or English or Science, and in the community. Childs’ impact on the art scene in the community revolves around partnerships she has formed or nurtured. Students visit Sheldon Museum of Art, students and staff enter art contests, hold art shows in their schools, share artwork in with the community, including at the Lincoln Children’s Museum, where large pieces of artwork from each elementary school add color and vibrancy to another place for children to learn and play. And under her leadership, student and staff works’ of art will be placed prominently in the new District Office for Lincoln Public Schools.
All of these experiences demonstrate that a life of art, of problem solving and of visual expression can and should start early.
“Through reflective assessment, we help students to reflect on how they solved the design problems the teachers have assigned to them. Through this reflection students come to know themselves. We believe that this meta-cognition will be an important asset as they try to figure what is important to them and how their self knowledge will help them make decisions that are right for them.”
Posted on June 12, 2013
Board of Education discusses High School Career Center recommendation
The Lincoln Board of Education met on Tuesday, June 11, in the City Council Chambers. The meeting was broadcast on cable channel 5. The next regular School Board meeting is set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 25.
Lincoln Board of Education highlights 6-11
Board of Education discusses High School Career Center recommendation
The Lincoln Board of Education Tuesday discussed a recommendation to develop and establish a high school career center for the school district, a facility that would feature blocks of career-related classes to match the specific employment and job needs of the community. The Board will take a final vote in July.
“This is the culmination of work we started last July – and lots of work has gone into this project,” said Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Steve Joel, citing the great number of campus visits, collaborations, cooperation from Southeast Community College, the State Department of Education and the business community.
“This recommendation represents best practices in this area,” he continued. “It is about making a difference in connecting kids to tangible, meaningful and purposeful learning…making a difference in their lives.”
Board of Education remarks included:
- Kathy Danek: “I like so many, many aspects of this program…but especially that our students will be coming out of this program as life-long learners. I’m fully in support.”
- Katie McLeese-Stephenson said she specifically liked: The broad access for students, student interest used as a key factor in determining course offerings, and transportation provided for students. “I also am really in support of this concept.”
- Richard Meginnis: “I know the business community is really excited about this.”
- Lanny Boswell: “I’m very excited about this proposal, and about the potential it has to improve student success.”
- Barb Baier said she had concerns that included: additional information about the necessary curriculum development, whether the school district can reach the full breadth of students at LPS, accountability for success, how the new program will impact current high schools, and sustainability for the project.
The Career Center would provide opportunities for students who are planning to go on to college, or who are looking into more immediate careers and employment – helping them plan for their lives after high school, said John Neal, associate superintendent for Governmental Relations and General Administration, who made the presentation to the Board.
The Career Center would be open to all high school students in the community and likely will aim to serve 1,000-1,200 students for morning, afternoon and evening sessions. It would be located on the Southeast Community College campus and operate through a collaboration of LPS, SCC and other community partners.
“This is one of the greatest ideas I’ve seen come along in a very long time,” said Jack Huck, president of Southeast Community College, “preparing the work force of the future, and doing the best we can for our young people…Your potential partner in this venture, Southeast Community College, is fully on board.”
The facility is estimated to cost $25 million, with LPS funding about half that amount – and the additional investment shared with other partners.
School Board citations
The Board of Education recognized Nancy Childs, curriculum specialist for Visual Arts at LPS, as the 2013 Art Educator of the Year honored by the National Art Education Association.
Posted on June 11, 2013
New LPS elementary principal assignments announced
A new elementary principal and a new elementary principal assignment were announced Friday for Lincoln Public Schools.
- Sean Bailey, assistant principal at Meadow Lane Elementary School, will be the new principal at Beattie Elementary School. Bailey has also been a teacher at Maxey Elementary School and a coordinator at Arnold Elementary School.
- Kathleen Dering will serve as the new principal of Elliott Elementary School. Dering has experience in serving elementary and middle schools in California, Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma – and has served in LPS for the past two years at Beattie.
Former Elliott Principal Mona Manley is leaving to become director of curriculum at a school district in Kansas.
"Both Sean and Kathleen are looking forward to these new opportunities within Lincoln Public Schools, and we look forward to working with them in their new roles," said Jane Stavem, associate superintendent for Instruction at LPS."
Posted on June 07, 2013
Schools adding to, refining PBIS plans for year ahead
It's Friday, late afternoon, in June.
The previous school year has wrapped up, the newest one still more than two months away.
About 100 high school and program leaders are gathered at Lincoln Southwest High School to discuss Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, often referred to as PBIS.
There are nine clusters of tables, by now filled with laptops displaying PowerPoints powerpoints and research information and notebooks with school-specific strategies.
Each cluster of tables represents a high school, plus the Yankee Hill Pathfinder, Bryan Community Focus Program, and the Behaviorial Skills Program.
But more importantly, each cluster of tables represents a team of leaders who are motivated to provide a better education for their Lincoln Public Schools students.
The goal: add to the best practices a new set of strategies to improve student behavior.
Some of topics discussed included:
- gathering and sharing data, and the best way to interpret the data,
- targeting specific behaviors by identifying major and minor issues,
- decide which behaviors require classroom management (teachers) and which ones need office management (principals and staff),
- how to use data to predict patterns of inappropriate behavior and work on prevention strategies,
- how to coach teachers at each school,
- how to involve families and students.
At the end of Friday's session, each school is asked to identify the three main points they learned as a group, two steps they will take as a team, the one area of training or support they would need from the school district, and the next date and time for a meeting as a team.
Natalie Hilton, a school psychologist formerly at Eastridge and Humann elementary schools, will be a PBIS coach with a group of high school and middle schools this fall.
"We are meeting teams where they are at and trying to build on whatever concepts that they have," Hilton said.
If a student recognizes the positive support, thus feeling more connected to the school and the teacher, the problem behaviors might go away, she said.
And that means more instruction time, says Scott Eckman, who is beginning his first year as the LPS coordinator for PBIS. Eckman previously was a coordinator coordinator at Arnold Elementary School, and a teacher and coach at Park Middle School.
"I'm hearing a lot of great conversations," Eckman said. "Staffs are looking at the way they do things in their buildings, collaborating on what works and what doesn't, and what is always best for kids."
Schools are at varying stage of implementation, thus making the school clusters more productive.
Consistency is a big key, Eckman said, both in student expectations and staff plans, and increasing instructional time is a key bi-product: more class time, more teaching, more learning, better grades and test scores and the cycle begins fresh with each new class.
"And I think that is the major goal as it goes along with our district goal of increasing the graduation rate," Eckman said.
Posted on June 07, 2013
Highlights of Board of Education’s 6/7 Finance Committee/Cost of new District Office building
The Lincoln Board of Education’s Finance Committee met Friday, June 7. The next full Board meeting is set for Tuesday, June 11
The Lincoln Board of Education’s Finance Committee heard a report Friday about final numbers for construction of the new Lincoln Public Schools District Office building.
The goal was to build this building without using any tax dollars – “and I believe we accomplished that,” said Scott Wieskamp, director for Operations at LPS.
The total funding for construction, furnishing and equipping the building is estimated at $18,752,387 – covered mostly by insurance money and sale of some of the original office site for limited commercial use, Wieskamp said. That total does include additional funds of up to $330,000 to fully furnish and equip the building.
“This is an awesome job,” said School Board member Kathy Danek. “We built the actual building under budget – and required some additional funding to furnish. Has anyone ever tried to replace the loss in your home? This is just a great story to tell.”
She also noted that LPS has been frugal in equipping the building in accepting an incredibly generous donation from Assurity Life Insurance Company that provides most of the necessary cubicles in the new District Office building. “We have made many, many conservative choices here.”
New School Board member Lanny Boswell stressed that the community also needs to account for the substantial additional value provided with this new building.
“This is built like our new schools as an 80-year-old facility,” said Superintendent Steve Joel. “We were at a point with our old District Office building when we would have been forced to spend at least $4 million to retrofit it. This new building actually saves taxpayer money.”
Wieskamp agreed: “We have all new equipment and furnishings in this building. We have new camera and broadcast equipment for our Board meetings. We have 18 meeting rooms as opposed to four or five in the old building. There’s a new flexibility in the entire operation, and it’s hard to put a value on that.”
Projected Revenue Sources
- Travelers Insurance Settlement: $14, 850,000
- Continuum Partners Land Purchase: $2,314,735
- Continuum Partners Site Development Contribution: $580,000
- Lincoln Electric System Green Incentives: $250,000
- Non-Restricted Building Funds (expansion of lower level): $425,000
Total: $18,419,735
Projected Project Expenses
- Site and Building Costs: $15,863,210
- A/E Professional Services and Reimbursables (architects, engineers, consultants): $1,140,754
- LPSDO Demolition and Removal Costs: $344,543
- Building Permit: $78,795
- Geotechnical/Thermal Conductivity: $25,445
- Contingency: $100,000
Sub-total $17,552,747
- To fully provide Furnishings, Fixtures, Equipment: $1,199,640
Total: $18,752,387
Posted on June 07, 2013
Superintendent Facility Advisory Committee receives more presentations, further discussion
For more information go to the webpage for the Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Facility Advisory Committee: http://wp.lps.org/fac/
Lincoln Public Schools Superintendent Steve Joel’s Facility Advisory Committee met for the third session Wednesday – this time at Belmont Elementary School – and received lessons about the school district’s strategic planning goals, community collaborations and partnerships, and the proposed high school Career Center.
The Committee – made up of about 90 community and school stakeholders from across the city – also further developed what they see as the school district’s top priorities for facilities and infrastructure.
Highlights of Wednesday’s meeting included several Power Point presentations, which will all be available at http://wp.lps.org/fac/:
- A presentation on the school district’s strategic planning goals (improving the graduation rate, expanding staff reflective of the demographics of LPS students, updating and expanding the scope of the 10-year Facilities and Infrastructure Plan, engaging the community’s stakeholders to support student learning, and implementing a technology plan to create the most effective 21st century classroom).
- A presentation on the proposed high school Career Center (which would likely require school bond funding).
- A presentation on LPS partnerships and collaborations (including speakers from the LPS Community Learning Centers, and two representatives from CLC lead agencies: the Lincoln YMCA, and Boys & Girls Club of Lincoln/Lancaster County).
The Committee will consider and evaluate the school district’s priorities for the coming 10 years, and submit a recommendation to the Superintendent and Lincoln Board of Education this fall.
Facility Advisory Subcommittees have been formed to further research and develop each of five facility and infrastructure priorities – and will continue to meet. The subcommittees are:
- Technology
- Safety and security
- Facilities/Infrastructure – existing and new
- Career academy and career readiness
- Student Services
The full Committee – led by community members Keith Prettyman and Connie Duncan – will meet again in August and through the fall.
Posted on June 05, 2013
Foundation 2013 Educator Awards
The Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools is a nonprofit organization that helps channel private resources to student needs in Lincoln Public Schools through classroom grants and scholarships. The Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools is governed by a volunteer board of directors and supported financially by alumni, businesses, parents, donors, Lincoln Public Schools employees, private foundations, and other members of the community. For more information visit www.foundationforlps.org.
2013 Award Winners
Hugh McDermott (Irving Middle School) receives the Marie Bourke Leadership Award. Established by Glenn & Janice Friendt, the award is presented to recognize the impact of great principals on the lives of students and teachers. McDermott receives $1000 and will participate in the Gallup Organization Leadership program.
Mike Robb (Irving Middle School) and David Macek (Culler Middle School) both receive the $3000 Florence J. Clark Award for Excellence in Middle School Teaching. The two teachers demonstrated excellence in middle school teaching and worked toward improvement in student achievement and development.
Stephanie Emry (Rousseau Elementary) receives the Ruth Eickman Award for her commitment to children and child centered education. The award focuses on the recipient’s involvement with families of young children and the individual’s dedication to providing developmentally appropriate and innovative practices in the field of early childhood education. Emry receives $250 for this honor.
Delise Andrews (LPS Elementary Math Coordinator (grades 3-5)) is recognized with the R.L. Fredstrom Leadership Award. In honor of Rudy Fredstrom, a long-time Nebraska teacher and administrator, Andrews has presented outstanding leadership qualities and demonstrated the potential of an outstanding education leader. Andrews receives $1,000 for the award.
Jamie Klein (Zeman Elementary) was named the Helen Krieger Outstanding Healthcare Provider. Klein is recognized for making a significant contribution to the lives of students and families by providing excellence in healthcare and healthcare education. Klein receives $1,000 for this honor.
Charles (Fred) Thorne (Lincoln Southeast High School) receives the John Prasch Health and Physical Fitness Award. This award recognizes an educator who has made a significant contribution to student’s lives by promoting health and physical fitness. Thorne receives $1,000 for this honor.
Dan Dougherty (Lincoln Southeast High School) was named the Mike Troester Outstanding Educator. This award annually recognizes a Southeast High School educator who encourages students and colleagues to reach their full potential and who uses outside resources and new approaches in their teaching. Dougherty receives $400 for this award.
Lincoln Southeast High School is named the 2013 Gold Star School. In partnership with Wells Fargo Bank and Lincoln Benefit Life, the $6500 Gold Star Award recognizes an LPS school that has set high reaching goals and achieves them.
Posted on June 05, 2013
Adobe Certified Associate Exams for LPS Teachers and Students
Steve Carr, instructor at the LPS Information Technology Focus Program, has set up the district’s first testing center for Adobe Certified Associate Exams. The Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) certification allows teachers and students to demonstrate proficiency in Adobe digital communications tools.
Adobe has created these Certified Associate (ACA) exams:
- Visual Communication with Adobe Photoshop
- Rich Media Communication with Adobe Flash
- Web Communication with Adobe Dreamweaver
- Video Communication with Adobe Premiere
- Graphic Design & Illustration with Adobe Illustrator
- Print & Digital Media Publication with Adobe InDesign
There is a wealth of free exam preparation resources available online, including a listing of exam objectives and free Adobe curriculum for teachers to use in the classroom. This web page has links to information and resources available from Adobe and Certiport—http://wp.lps.org/ldickes/presentations/adobe-teaching-and-learning-resources.
While the emphasis is on providing Adobe certification, as a Certiport testing site the following exams could also be administered in the future: Microsoft Office Specialist; Microsoft Technology Associate; QuickBooks Certified User; Autodesk Certified User; CompTIA Strata; and HP Accredited Technical Associate.
Teachers or students interested in completing their Adobe certification or learning more about the ACA testing program at the Lincoln Public Schools can contact Steve Carr, scarr@lps.org, 402-436-1776 or Linda Dickeson, ldickes@lps.org, 402-458-3134.
Posted on June 04, 2013
Screen Time Challenge reveals progress against bad habits
Lincoln Public Schools’ students focused on cutting screen time for the final school quarter. A total of 1,535 students from 27 schools returned the 7 day challenge, learning more about their TV, gaming, computer and cell phone habits. The overall goal for students is to have 2 hours or less screen time daily. Older students competed against their own 3 day baseline.
Comments from students and family
- During this challenge my son cut both his screening time and gaming time in well over half the time, it made him see how much time he actually spends playing games.
- We do not allow any TV Monday-Thursday. We limit TV time on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We have found that they don't watch a whole lot - they find a lot of other things to do.
- We noticed how easy it is to waste time with screen time. By limiting, we had more time for activities as a family where we were all engaged.
- We realized how much time can get away when spent on screen time. We made an effort to cut back. We spent more active and reading time together.
- I read the book Mouse TV. The mouse family's TV breaks and they have to find other activities to do instead of watching TV.
- I was very proud I stayed under 120 minutes every day. It was kind of hard on the cold days because I like to watch TV when it’s cold.
- I am finding myself not rushing in the morning to get ready and I am sleeping longer because I am cutting down on my screen time.
- This challenge helped me realize it's important to do other stuff than playing video games, watching TV and other stuff.
- When I have things going on in the afternoon it’s easier but on weekends it’s harder not to watch TV.
- I have been getting better at not watching a lot of TV, thank you for the sheet this really helped me.
- My older brother needs to take this challenge! I love the screen challenge because it made me think.
- During this challenge I realized how much screen time I used and I need to cut back.
- Now I can spend time with my family instead of my iPod, computer, and TV.
- It helped me think about the different types of electronic devices I use.
- I like playing video games, so it was good to keep records of my time.
- My mom was very proud of me because I watched less than normal.
- It was easy all 7 days because I tried my best and had fun doing it.
- I worked really hard and hope to keep controlling my screen time!
- I like limiting my TV time so I can do more things that I enjoy.
- I got a bit smarter and my eyes hurt less and I got more exercise.
- I learned to do less screen time because it could rot your brain.
- I get to spend more time outside and with friends/family.
- I am proud of how I watch less than two hours per day!
- We did more playing and visiting with friends and family.
- I liked this challenge because it taught me a lot.
- I am proud of myself because I made it through.
- I played more outside instead of watching TV.
- We read more and played as a family more.
- My success was good. I got 5 checks out of 7!
- I was careful how much time I spent on DS.
- This was a fun and important challenge!
- I played more soccer with my brothers.
- I tried to go outside more. It worked.
- It was really hard not watching TV.
- I tried to work more on my flute!
- I felt like I did better in school.
- I am happy with my success.
- I am proud of my work!
Some of the many staff comments:
- I try not to text, listen to music, and play games when walking my dog or just hanging out with her. Hershey gets jealous of that crazy device that makes noise and you can see in her eyes that she saying, "Put that darn thing down. This is MY time!" lol
- At first this was a challenge but we adjusted our schedule and made more time for outside or reading. As a family we made lots of changes. We watched TV too much. We played games that didn't involve TV or computer. It was a GREAT week and we plan on keeping it that way!
- This challenge definitely made me aware of how often I have the TV or computer on in the background without even noticing. By turning them off and reducing the noise and light, our house felt much calmer and restful.
- I realized the first thing I do in the morning is check my phone or computer and this tends to make me run 10 minutes late. Amazing how much easier it is to make it out the door in the morning when I don't even turn them on!
- I caught myself working at my computer, texting, or mindlessly watching TV for way to long just because my mind needed a break from the day. It was good for me to be aware of how much of my life is consumed with screens!
- Our family took the challenge and played games together. We went outside a played Frisbee, went swinging, badminton, anything we could outside. Just wished the weather was as excited about our challenge as we were.
- I have been more physically active due to all the yard work that needs to be done. It has been refreshing to not rely on technology and to reconnect with my family at home. Since I adjusted my screen time, I did the same with my kids. Together, we reduced our television screen time, and we even incorporated more time for playing board games. It was a nice change of pace-to be able to unplug- and focus on the simpler things in life.
- I read a lot on my iPad - I made a couple trips to the library to check out books rather than download--saved me money too :)
- It's better to be outside playing and having fun than sitting inside watching TV or playing games on the computer.
- I made an effort to use short phone calls instead of long text conversations that lasted for great lengths of time.
- I continue to work on less TV watching. I hope to get outdoors more. Less computer and tv watching.
- My students tried very hard for this challenge and updated me on their progress each day!
- This was a good way to help me realize how much time I spend in front of the screen…
- This made me realize that I do have more screen time at home then I thought I did!
- I didn't realize how much I am on my computer until I made myself be aware of it!
- I noticed I have more time to put towards other items that needed my attention.
- With my new iPad this was difficult. My kids really appreciated the effort though.
- I got many more books read for pleasure during this week! Great challenge!
- My daughter and I worked together to decrease screen time.
- Not as easy as it sounds! I'm addicted to my smartphone!
- Thanks for this challenge. I really did enjoy it.
Posted on June 04, 2013
Lincoln Board of Education highlights 5-28
Lunch prices
The proposed prices for regular lunches at Lincoln Public Schools next year - an increase of a dime per meal - were approved. This increase is not due to LPS, but rather it is a United States Department of Agriculture requirement to move closer to the reimbursement rate.
Proposed lunch costs for 2013-14:
- Elementary full price: $2.15 to $2.25
- Middle full price: $2.35 to $2.45
- High school: $2.50 to $2.60
There are no changes for breakfast prices.
Newly annexed
The Board of Education assigns school attendance areas to property newly annexed to the city of Lincoln or newly platted. This action establishes school attendance areas prior to the sale of residential lots, allowing purchasers to know what schools their children will attend. The city recently annexed one parcel of land: The Woodlands at Yankee Hill, South 84th and Yankee Hill Road. The Board approved the following attendance areas: Maxey Elementary School, Pound Middle School and Lincoln Southeast High School.
Graduation Demonstration Exams
The Writing GDE changes will take place starting with next year's freshman class, with writing scores reported as District common Assessments. Freshman would write an opinion essay, sophomores would complete a literary /character analysis, and juniors would complete an argument.
David Smith, curriculum specialist for Language Arts, said the change would add three days of instruction back to freshman and sophomore classes, and six days of instruction to juniors and senior writing support courses. "It would reduce the amount of testing to what would be normal curricular requirements." In addition, the change would reduce expenses.
Board member Kathy Danek said, "I love that you are putting it back into the classroom."
This plan will be piloted during the 2013-14 school year and put into effect district wide during the 2014-15 school year.
Educational Programming Moving from Channel 21
John Neal informed the Board that LPS programming on Channel 21 (public access channel) will likely be moved by the end of June. Initially, Neal said, there were two real concerns: limiting access and not being able to locate the new channel location. The new channel number, 80, is still on the basic cable lineup with channels 2-22.
Neal said Time Warner Cable is going to produce ads announcing the move to broadcast on popular channels, educate their customer service representatives, provide a 'crawl' of text on the bottom of the screen on Channel 21 leading up to the change over, and mention the change on the TWC billing statements.
LPS is also working to include on-demand educational programming in viewer options.
Superintendent Update
Supt. Steve Joel said work continues though the school year is over: Superintendent's Facility Advisory Committee, hiring and preparation for the 2013-14 school year, in addition to many other projects.
School Board citations
The Board of Education recognized Kevin Atterberg, named Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska Farm Bureau. The award is given annually to two Nebraska certified K-8 teachers who creatively bring agriculture into their classrooms while achieving Nebraska State Standards.
Posted on June 04, 2013
Discounted tickets available for this weekend's Lied shows
An educator's discount is available for this weekend's Lied Center performances.
The show, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, opens Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. on the Lied Center Main Stage, 12th and R streets.
For tickets, call 402-472-4747 and ask about the educator's discount.
About the show:
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is produced in collaboration with the Lied Center of Performing Arts and TADA Productions Inc.
The Bee does contain some adult humor and is recommended for patrons 12 years of age and over.
At the request of the show’s creators this production is presented without an intermission.
Posted on June 04, 2013
Photos: Graduation 2013
The photos in this gallery were provided by staff and family from the 2013 LPS Graduation Ceremonies. To contribute your photos, send them to zbaehr@lps.org with school name and the names of those photographed. Photos submitted may also be used in other LPS publications and platforms.
Posted on June 04, 2013
Leadership roles take shape, with Lacey Konwinski
This is part of a series of stories featuring Lincoln Public Schools elementary teachers who were a part of the group of teachers who returned to graduate school to study mathematics and the teaching of mathematics. The stories and photo were produced by the Center for Science, Mathematics & Computer Education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and published during the 2012-13 school year. Primarily Math is UNL's 18-hour graduate program comprised of six mathematics and pedagogy courses.
Whether it is in their building or their district, several LPS teachers have taken on leadership roles because of Primarily Math. Beattie Elementary’s Lacey Konwinski, a Cohort 4 participant, has stepped up in both settings.
“I have helped the district with the first-grade implementation of the new math curriculum,” Konwinski said. “I led monthly meetings last year, and this year I helped with the second semester update sessions.”
Konwinski and her Cohort 4 colleague West Lincoln Elementary teacher Megan Slothouber piloted the new math program Math Expressions during the spring semester of 2011. Slothouber also serves as the district-wide first-grade math implementation leader and has created multiple professional development sessions for teachers. This year, Slothouber and Konwinski collaborated to plan the second semester math professional development for the first-grade teachers.
“Lacey’s willingness to learn and openness to trying new instructional strategies in her classroom makes her a professional role model for others. We are very fortunate to have her as a part of the district leadership team as she brings many gifts as a top-notch educator,” said Susie Katt, LPS K-3 district math coach and Primarily Math instructor.
Three other Primarily Math teachers also teach at Beattie with Konwinski: Darcy Vercellino from Cohort 3 LPS and Tracy Clements and Jennifer Woelber from Cohort 4 Lincoln. Clements, Konwinski, Vercellino, and Woelber lead “Math Moments” at staff meetings in which they share what they have learned through Primarily Math.
In the first Math Moment they talked about productive struggle, asked the staff to solve the “crossing the river problem,” and showed a video clip of two of Konwinski’s first-graders solving the problem.
Konwinski said Primarily Math has not only helped her understand math better, but also has introduced new ways to help struggling students.
“I believe students should encounter some productive struggle within their learning, and I also believe that students need a chance to explore and construct meaning for themselves as much as possible with me as a guide to get them to the desired point,” Konwinski said.
Originally from Columbus, Neb., Lacey and her husband, Greg, have been married for four years. She said she cherishes the friendships she has made in Primarily Math and always looks forward to working together at course workshops and viewing the beneficial resources.
“The best part of Primarily Math, however, is seeing the differences it has made in my students’ math knowledge,” she said.
Posted on June 03, 2013
‘There is no fear of failing,' with Jessica Tewalt
This is part of a series of stories featuring Lincoln Public Schools elementary teachers who were a part of the group of teachers who returned to graduate school to study mathematics and the teaching of mathematics. The stories and photo were produced by the Center for Science, Mathematics & Computer Education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and published during the 2012-13 school year. Primarily Math is UNL's 18-hour graduate program comprised of six mathematics and pedagogy courses.
Jessica Tewalt is reaping the benefits of teaching in a school with a math coach – not to mention a math coach who participated in Primarily Math.
Tewalt, a Cohort 4 participant teaching at Cavett Elementary in Lincoln, has worked with Cohort 1 participant Tara Zuspan, the school’s math coach, since she started there three years ago.
“Tara helped me plan and try new math ideas in my classroom. She pushed the boundaries of what was expected and helped me gain important math teaching know-ledge,” Tewalt said. “In college, they teach you how to make a lesson plan. Tara taught me how to teach math.”
Tewalt said she appreciates the teamwork and sharing of ideas that having a building math coach provides.
“Some people might think that working with a coach means you have a weakness. I know that I am just pushing myself to be a better teacher,” she said.
The camaraderie between the Primarily Math teachers also encourages Tewalt as she works on completing the program in 2013.
“We are working together and helping one another grow as learners,” Tewalt said. “There is no fear of failing because you always have someone willing to help you. I can’t imagine what my teaching would be like without this program. A whole new door has been opened.”
Originally from Pine Island, Minn., a small town 20 minutes north of Rochester, Tewalt was recruited to work for LPS at a job fair in Minneapolis. Both of her grandmothers were teachers, leading Tewalt to decide to pursue teaching as a career from an early age.
“After taking a leave of absence raising her seven children, my Grandma Pearl was asked to come back to teaching. She decided to continue her education and went back to get her bachelor’s degree in education. When she received it, she was 56 years old and at the University of Wisconsin-Superior,” Tewalt said. “She was my biggest inspiration. When I was little she would sit me on her lap and talk about how much she loved her second-graders, which is why I pursued teaching second grade.”
Not only has Tewalt been amazed by what her students have done after teaching them new ways of thinking about math, parents of Tewalt’s students have been impressed as well. One parent said, “Since we incorporated books about math and math games at home, my child has developed a better attitude toward doing math skills worksheets at home and school.”
Tewalt added, “My students don’t sit during math. They walk to the front of the room proud. Students give each other high-fives after figuring out a problem. They cheer for a student with limited English who gets up in front of the class. It is fascinating to see, and I feel so proud of all they have accomplished.”
Posted on June 03, 2013
Stretching her skills in math, with teacher Amy Davidson
This is part of a series of stories featuring Lincoln Public Schools elementary teachers who were a part of the group of teachers who returned to graduate school to study mathematics and the teaching of mathematics. The stories and photo were produced by the Center for Science, Mathematics & Computer Education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and published during the 2012-13 school year. Primarily Math is UNL's 18-hour graduate program comprised of six mathematics and pedagogy courses.
The year 2012 was a memorable one for Amy Davidson.
The Cohort 3 LPS participant completed Primarily Math in the summer, and, like Cohort 2 participant Alysia Augustus, is one of Nebraska’s finalists for the 2012 cycle of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching.
The third-grade teacher is also currently the math liaison for her building, Fredstrom Elementary, and is on the Math Advisory Committee.
“We plan the monthly update sessions and provide instruction for a group of teachers,” Davidson said.
In addition, Davidson has taken advantage of the Nebraska Math & Science Summer Institutes courses for elementary teachers that build on the coursework of Primarily Math.
“The courses were so relevant to what we are teaching every day,” she said. “Primarily Math and other NMSSI courses are so worth it!”
As a result of the program, Davidson said she can count on the support system of other LPS teachers if she needs anything.
“Sharing frustrations and successes with other teachers who think math is important has been invaluable,” Davidson said. “So many teachers feel that reading should be at the forefront, so it was comforting to know that there are other teachers that believe math should be a focus as well.”
While she always has loved math, Davidson said the two years of Primarily Math stretched her mathematically, and she gained a solid foundation for teaching conceptually.
“Children remember concepts best when math is taught conceptually. They do best when they discover patterns and rules on their own or with strategic guidance. Rote memorization may help with short term understanding, but it does more harm than good in the long run,” she said.
Davidson has taught at Fredstrom for 14 years, and is married with one daughter (age 8). She has known she always wanted to be a teacher. “It was, and still is, my calling,” she said.
Quotes from her students:
“I loved when we started learning division. And Mrs. Davidson is awesome at teaching her smart math class. So far this year division has been my favorite unit.” Lauren
“What I like about this year in math was Mrs. Davidson had lots of math games and fun math books. I liked that.” Tyler
“This year I liked and learned the distributive property also division and multiplication. p.s. Mrs. Davidson is the best math teacher ever. She rocks!” Kayla
Posted on June 03, 2013
Taking on math’s ‘big’ ideas, with teacher Kristy Kennedy
This is part of a series of stories featuring Lincoln Public Schools elementary teachers who were a part of the group of teachers who returned to graduate school to study mathematics and the teaching of mathematics. The stories and photo were produced by the Center for Science, Mathematics & Computer Education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and published during the 2012-13 school year. Primarily Math is UNL's 18-hour graduate program comprised of six mathematics and pedagogy courses.
After completing Primarily Math as part of Cohort 3 LPS, Kristy Kennedy now understands why she did not love math as a high school student.
“I never gained a deep conceptual understanding of the many big mathematical ideas, and I did after Primarily Math,” Kennedy said. “I had simply relied on the procedural understanding of applying a formula to specific problems.”
Now, Kennedy is teaching and modeling these “big” mathematical ideas to her peers at Lincoln’s Kloefkorn Elementary School in an informal coaching role.
“My colleagues know that I have had extensive training in the teaching and learning of mathematics through Primarily Math and frequently seek my guidance and have conversations about various lessons,” Kennedy said. “I partner with teachers by observing their lessons, plan lessons with teachers while discussing objectives in-depth, and invite other teachers into my own classroom to observe me teaching math lessons.”
Kennedy also assists teachers in developing their personal Math Talk Action Plan, part of the Math Expressions curriculum. Academically-productive classroom discussions about mathematics, otherwise known as Math Talk, have many benefits. Math Talk assists in developing student understanding of mathematical ideas and creates a collaborative classroom culture where students contribute to the success of others.
“Kristy has played an integral role as a leader within her team, building and the district,” said LPS district math coach Susie Katt. “Kristy’s desire to learn and grow as an educator, along with her grace and kindness, makes her a leader whose work truly makes a difference in the lives of our young children.”
Kennedy began her eighth year of teaching in 2012 at this brand-new school. She chose to follow her principal, Sue Braun, and assistant principal, Kristi Schirmer, from Rousseau Elementary to Kloefkorn due to their “amazing leadership.”
Braun said it was a “conscious decision” to ask Primarily Math teachers to come to Kloefkorn due to their additional training.
“Kristy has the exceptional ability to take students to a deeper level of understanding mathematically. She provides kindergartners with such a solid base on which to grow their math knowledge,” Braun said.
Originally from Schuyler, Neb., Kennedy and her husband, Ricky, have two sons, Carson (age 3) and Colton (age 1). Kennedy has always loved helping children learn. After experiencing this program and its strong support system, her confidence in her own mathematical skills has grown to a greater confidence in her teaching of mathematics.
“I firmly believe in the power of a professional learning community to partner with one another in assisting all teachers and students to develop into mathematical thinkers,” Kennedy said. “A strong partnership must have trust, perseverance, and commitment in order to have a powerful impact on student learning.”
Posted on June 03, 2013
Multicultural Leadership: Shrinking the 'attitude gap' key for teachers, students
Baruti Kafele left his passion – teaching in classrooms and leading schools – to live in a garment bag, he joked.
Now he travels most of the year, giving 20 presentations a month before educators.
His presentation – titled titled: “Closing the ‘Attitude Gap: A Framework for the ‘Attitude Transformation’ of At-Risk Students.” – came at the 19th Annual Multicultural Leadership event at Lincoln Southwest High School.
Kafele said he and other teachers and principals have their own story, their own baggage, their own issues. “The kids didn’t need that, they needed me to be on point every day,” Kafele said.
“The attitude gap is the gap between those students who have the will to strive for academic excellence and those who do not.”
Kafele told many stories from his work at his own schools and those he has visited.
He currently is principal at a 700-800 student school in New Jersey, where he says he can get to know all of the students. His competitive drive might push him to want to run a larger school to show everyone how it can be done.
First, Kafele said, one must look at their own attitude, determine who they are and what they are about.
No teacher has control over poverty, so they must focus on what they can control: climate and culture, he said.
He suggested teaches should focus on teaching students, not the subject matter. Make sure the classroom reflects the experience teaches want the students to have, he said, and make sure the words students hear in the hallways reflect the respect students and staff have for each other.
Data might show an ‘issue’ with students of color, Kafele said, but the leadership of the school – principals and teachers alike – must address the issue without being afraid of acknowledging the real issues.
“We got homework to do as a staff.”
He doesn’t believe in dressing like the youth in order to get their attention or respect, preferring instead to wear a suit and tie to help students understand how they will need to present themselves.
“I’m not going to dress down for teenagers,” he said.
More about the speaker:
Best-selling author, educational consultant and motivational speaker, Principal Kafele is on fire! He’s on a personal mission to motivate, educate and empower educators, parents and children toward the elimination of the attitude gap—the impediment to the closure of the achievement gap. Convinced that school climate and culture are the vehicles toward transforming student attitudes, his keynotes and workshops provide school leaders and teachers with a framework for completely overhauling the climate and culture of their schools and classrooms. Principal Kafele contends that the attitudes of both, students and staff cannot change within a toxic school climate and culture. He further asserts that effective teaching strategies are simply not enough toward achieving desired outcomes because the school’s climate and culture will actually determine the effectiveness of those teaching strategies. Resultantly, Principal Kafele is known to say that “a toxic classroom climate and culture will eat effective teaching strategies for breakfast.” In these times of crisis-level drop-out rates, suspension rates and low academic performance, Principal Kafele brings to his audiences an empowering message of attitude transformation. What sets him apart from so many other presenters is that not only does he talk about what works - he lived it as the leader of four urban public schools for fourteen years as a popular award-winning principal in New Jersey. He knows what it takes to transform struggling low-performing schools into successful high-performing schools because he has done it. His message is therefore authentic, relevant, inspiring, reinvigorating, thought-provoking and candid. He inspires his audiences to expect nothing less than excellence.
Currently, Principal Kafele is a highly sought-after educational consultant and motivational speaker which enables him to travel extensively throughout America and internationally, spreading his empowering message of attitude transformation. A versatile speaker, he regularly conducts conference keynote addresses, professional development workshops for educators, parental engagement seminars and student motivational assemblies.
Principal Kafele is happily married to his wife Kimberley and is the proud father of his three children, Baruti, Jabari and Kibriya. He earned his B.S. degree in Management Science/Marketing from Kean University where he graduated summa cum laude, and his M.A. degree in Educational Administration from New Jersey City University. He is also the recipient of over one hundred educational, professional and community awards which include the prestigious Milken National Educator Award in 2009, the New Jersey Education Association Award for Excellence in 2011 and the City of Dickinson, Texas proclaiming February 8, 1998 as Baruti Kafele Day.
His website is http://www.principalkafele.com.
Posted on May 29, 2013
Southeast prom queen shares joy, tiara
When Brianna Dierks won the title of Prom Queen at Lincoln Southeast High School, she was happy, honored and humbled. Then she saw Amanda, a fellow student also up for the honor.
“She was just really sad, she wanted to try it on and I saw how happy it made her so I just told her to keep it,” Dierks said.
“It was definitely an honor for me but I could tell that it meant more to her than me at that moment. I think it is humbling. I am happy that I could make her feel better. I am just so grateful for the things I have.”
And a few days later, back at school, Brianna and Amanda saw each other in the hallway and gave each other another hug, with Amanda proudly boasting her smile and her crown.
Posted on May 28, 2013
Mourning Hope Grief Center Delivers “First Aid Kits for Grieving Hearts” to LPS Elementary Schools
The Mourning Hope Grief Center has placed two grief kits for youth and their caregivers in each elementary school library within the Lincoln Public School system. This was made possible through funding provided by the Rogers Foundation. “First Aid Kits for Grieving Hearts” will allow children to gain immediate access to effective grief-related resources following the death of a loved one.
The “First Aid Kits for Grieving Hearts” are essentially care packages that include 14 grief books for the entire bereaved family. These grief kits contain disparate educational books, DVDs and other materials focused on the needs of grieving youth and their caregivers following the death of someone significant in their lives.
Similar to other educational materials in school libraries, these resources are available for checkout as needed, and the bags contain materials for all members of the family.
Childhood grief can have a detrimental, life-long impact on children, their families, and the community-at-large. Unresolved childhood grief is often linked with depression, violence, truancy, school failure, substance abuse and suicidal tendencies. By supporting bereaved children who are at risk of developing these complications and providing them with life coping skills, the potential social, emotional and health problems associated with unresolved grief can be minimized.
“Providing children with materials that are carefully selected to assist them and their caregivers in the grieving process contributes to the resiliency of the entire family at a critical period,” stated Carly Runestad, Mourning Hope Executive Director. “We sincerely thank the Rogers Foundation and Lincoln Public Schools for partnering with Mourning Hope to develop and distribute these critical resources. These kits will help create an environment for bereaved children that is safe for sharing, for asking questions, for seeking help, and for giving permission to mourn.”
Contact: Carly Runestad, (402) 488-8989, crunestad@mourninghope.org
Posted on May 28, 2013
Graduates find college, career paths more attainable with scholarship
Three graduates of Lincoln Public Schools have taken advantage of the Learn to Dream Scholarship and are now on pathways to the career of their choice.
The SCC Learn to Dream Scholarship, made available through the generosity of Union Bank and Trust and Nelnet, is available to any Lincoln high school graduate who meets income guidelines. Students must have graduated from a Lincoln public or private high school and have qualified for the federal free or reduced lunch program. Students who qualify are awarded a scholarship that will pay for up to 45 quarter credit hours at any of SCC’s three campuses.
Anna Ortiz
As a high school student in Mexico, Ana Ortiz was more fascinated with a pig’s heart than she was her economics class.
“I got really interested in the blood vessels and how they function and work,” the Southeast Community College student said. “I also liked studying chromosomes and doing the experiments in chemistry.”
Courtney Heap
Courtney Heap plays with the cards life has dealt her. She never complains, and never asks, why me?
She graduated from Lincoln Southeast High School in 2011. Two years earlier her mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Heap, who has worked since she was 14, delayed her college start to provide financial support for her family.
Jose Moreno
As a Millennial and a part of Generation Y, it’s no surprise that Jose Moreno is interested in a career in computers.
Moreno, 18, is a student at Southeast Community College who has waffled back and forth between Academic Transfer and Computer Information Technology programs. Despite his apparent indecision about which SCC program he should focus on now, he plans to transfer to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in fall 2014 and earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
Posted on May 28, 2013
This Weekend's Graduation Ceremonies
High school graduation ceremonies for the Lincoln Public Schools class of 2013 are set for Thursday, May 23rd and Saturday and Sunday, May 25–26. All six high school graduations are planned at Pershing Center, 226 Centennial Mall South while Bryan's will be held at East High School, 1000 S 70th St.
Thursday, May 23
East High - 1000 S 70th St
- 7 p.m. Bryan Community
Saturday, May 25
Pershing Center
- 9 a.m. Lincoln Southwest
- Noon Lincoln East
- 3 p.m. Lincoln Southeast
- 6 p.m. Lincoln High
Sunday, May 26
Pershing Center
- 1 p.m. Lincoln North Star
- 4 p.m. Lincoln Northeast
Posted on May 25, 2013
Pyrtle's Blume named honorary admiral
Holly Blume, fourth-grade teacher at Pyrtle Elementary School, 721 Cottonwood Dr., is now an honorary Admiral in the Nebraska Navy in recognition of her outstanding teaching. Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman presented the award to her when her fourth-graders visited the Nebraska state capital on a field trip.
Posted on May 24, 2013
Leggiadro Named to EducationQuest Advisory Council
Brenda Leggiadro, Coordinator for Counselors and School Social Workers at Lincoln Public Schools (LPS), was recently named to the EducationQuest Foundation Advisory Council. She joins a group of statewide education and community representatives who advise EducationQuest on programs and services that support its mission of improving access to higher education in Nebraska.
As a member of the Advisory Council, Leggiadro will help identify obstacles to higher education, brainstorm and prioritize programs, services and needs, and serve on a scholarship or grant review committee.
Leggiadro brings extensive education experience to the Council. In her current position, she works with LPS counselors and school social workers on facilitating student success. Prior to that, she was counseling team leader at Lincoln East High School, and served as a counselor at Lincoln High School and Chadron High School.
She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Chadron State College and is currently a doctoral student in educational administration at University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
“Brenda’s experience will be invaluable as we evaluate our programs and find new ways to improve college access in Nebraska,” said EducationQuest President Liz Koop.
EducationQuest, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Lincoln, provides free college planning services, need-based scholarship programs, grants that help high schools increase their college-going rate, and outreach services for community agencies statewide.
Posted on May 24, 2013
Artist Opportunity: 7th Annual Exhibit of The National Arts Program
The National Arts Program is designed to give all visual artists - at all skill levels - an uninhibited opportunity to exhibit their work in a professional manner, and also to compete for cash prizes. Sponsored by the National Arts Program Foundation in support and cooperation with the City of Lincoln and Lincoln Public Schools, the exhibit is judged by professional artists and visual art professionals in Amateur, Intermediate, Professional, Teen and Youth classifications, and it is free to all who qualify. Don't miss this chance to be recognized for your creativity, and be proud of your art!
The National Arts Program invites City of Lincoln and Lincoln Public School Employees and their family members to participate in this exhibition opportunity.
The Lincoln Arts Council is now accepting online and paper brochure registrations. To register online, simply go towww.nationalartsprogram.org/venues/lincoln-ne, click on "Click Here to Register Online," and fill out the information. Online registration is encouraged, but paper brochures will be available upon request. To request a paper brochure, please contact Mollie at 402-434-2787, or email her at mollie@artscene.org.
Registration is due no later than June 10th, 2013. All artwork will need to be delivered to the Lincoln Arts Council offices, located at 1701 South 17th Street, on June 30th or July 1st between noon and 5pm. This year's exhibition will be on display July 12th –August 9th in select Lincoln City Libraries, with an opening reception and awards ceremony to be held on July 12th at Bennett Martin Library.
The National Arts Program is coordinated by AmeriCorps staff at the Lincoln Arts Council. Thank you to the City of Lincoln, The Nebraska Arts Council, Lincoln Public Schools and AmeriCorps for supporting this program.
Posted on May 24, 2013
Cohort of 35 LPS teachers earn Masters degrees from NWU
Thirty-five Lincoln Public Schools teachers received the Master of Arts in Historical Studies degree from Nebraska Wesleyan University in May. The 35 teachers, representing 18 separate schools within the district, have spent the past 2½ years working to strengthen their own knowledge and seeking innovative strategies for improving student achievement in history and social studies.
Teacher participation in the graduate program stems from a decade-long partnership between Lincoln Public Schools and Nebraska Wesleyan with funding by the United States Department of Education’s Office of Innovation and Improvement.
“The partnership between LPS and Nebraska Wesleyan is a model of how public education and higher education can join forces to enrich the lives and success of students in the community we all share,” said Dr. Kevin Bower, who directs the Historical Studies graduate program, “working with these teachers has been incredibly rewarding.”
For the past 4 years LPS teachers have been joined by colleagues who teach at Nebraska schools located on the Omaha, Santee and Winnebago Indian Reservations. Five teachers from those schools will receive diplomas alongside their LPS colleagues.
Randy Ernst, LPS social studies curriculum specialist, credits the graduating teachers for their willingness to “go beyond their already considerable day-to-day duties to continually find ways to become better at serving the needs of students.” By taking courses in the evening and during the summer, these teachers will, according to Ernst, “impact student learning across the district for years to come.”
Another cohort of 26 teachers are expected to graduate next school year.
Quotes
Kathy Wobig – Second Grade Teacher at Randolph – “The Historical Studies program at Wesleyan is an excellent program and I strongly recommend it to anyone considering going back to get their Master's or just want to improve their teaching in this area. At my age I didn't think going back to school was possible. The instructors at Wesleyan and the support I received from Lincoln Public Schools made it possible. We don't wait until our students are in upper elementary school to teach them the alphabet and we shouldn't wait until then to teach them history. This program taught me that history can be taught to the youngest of our students and should continue though out their schooling. Being proficient at history does not mean being able to recite facts and dates. This program gave me the tools as a teacher to teach my students how to look at the world with a historical mind and that is a skill that will support all students as they become lifelong learners. I also made many new relationships with teachers not only across our district from all grade levels, but across the state as well. This social networking has also had a positive impact on my teaching. So to anyone considering going back to school this is the program for you!”
Abby Beatty – Third Grade Teacher at Sheridan – The Historical Studies program through Nebraska Wesleyan University has enabled me to promote and practice more critical reading and thinking skills in my Third Grade classroom. At this age, students are naturally curious about the world around them; the past, present and future. By using Historical Thinking skills, students are learning to discover and discuss their past and make connections to their lives. Also, I have noticed the depth of knowledge and questioning improves with every lesson. Students want to know what we are learning about next!
Jessica Bowen – Sixth Grade Teacher at Lux – My time spent within the historical studies program was filled with excellent instructors, unforgettable educational experiences and many thought provoking challenges. Professors engaged my thinking in ways that made history more relevant. As students, we learned to think like historians, question history and view issues from multiple perspectives. Once I was able to grasp these fundamental concepts, it made teaching history within my classroom come alive. My students were then able to question history by analyzing documents; sharing ideas about their prior knowledge and making connections that solidified their understanding of many historical topics. The historical studies program will have lasting impressions upon all graduates and the students within their classrooms.
Jaci Kellison – Social Studies Teacher at Southeast – The Historical Studies program continues to have a profound impact on my life, both personally and professionally. The content knowledge and pedagogy skills developed during the program has positively impacted my teaching and consequently, my students. I learned a great deal of content, which is great as a high school history teacher, but more importantly, I learned how to make that content more meaningful for my students. The Habits of Mind skills I learned are extremely valuable in guiding my thinking about curriculum and instruction. The development of lesson plans centered on these skills will help my students to develop critical thinking skills and get excited about "doing" history.
Additionally, my experiences in the program allowed me the opportunity to form positive relationships with colleagues of varied grade levels across the district and among the greater educational community in Nebraska. The networking opportunities and enthusiastic collaboration established throughout the program was one of the most exciting experiences of my educational career. The spirit of the LPS community has never been greater than when 50+ LPS teachers from all grade levels can give up their evenings and summers to collaborate and create lesson plans, using the knowledge gained from the program, that will help guide future generations of students to become innovative, critical thinking, productive members of society.
NWU Historical Studies Graduates by School
|
Aleah Holden |
Arnold |
|
Kara Jobman |
Arnold |
|
Christa Hake |
Belmont |
|
Kathy Ayars |
Campbell |
|
Kevin Eckhout |
Cavett |
|
Kirsten Wieman |
Clinton |
|
Lisa Prochaska |
Clinton |
|
Deana Loos |
Fredstrom |
|
Stacey Heiser |
Fredstrom |
|
Amy Francis |
Hartley |
|
Libby Schupbach |
Leffler |
|
Jessica Bowen |
Lux |
|
Caroline Seymour |
Lux |
|
Amanda Wiemer |
Mickle |
|
Scott Ballinger |
Mickle |
|
Matt Hoffart |
Mickle |
|
Heather Bohling |
Morley |
|
Renee Kovar |
Morley |
|
Connie Peterson |
Morley |
|
Theresa Reinhard |
Morley |
|
Randi Crosby |
Park |
|
Chad Geiger |
Park |
|
Susan Dougherty |
Randolph |
|
Thomas Pargett |
Randolph |
|
Kathy Runge-Wobig |
Randolph |
|
Ashley Tobey |
Roper |
|
Bryan Ebeler |
Roper |
|
Kyle Parker |
Roper |
|
Diane Sullivan |
Rousseau |
|
Matt Hansen |
Schoo |
|
Steve Orton |
Schoo |
|
Lindsay Stoltenow |
Schoo |
|
Abby Beatty |
Sheridan |
|
Jaci Kellison |
Southeast |
|
Kyle Beacom |
Southeast |
|
|
|
Posted on May 24, 2013
LEA-R hosting garage sale Friday, Saturday
The group of retired teachers and staff from the Lincoln Education Association is holding its annual garage sale at 1748 Pinedale Ave. (near 84th and A streets).
Friday, May 24 – 9 to 5 a.m.
Saturday, May 25 – 9 to noon.
Items include: Clothes. Holiday. Books. Linens, Baskets. Furniture. Collectibles. Jewelry. Kitchen Items. Misc Glassware, Small Appliance, Knick-nacks.
Posted on May 24, 2013
Lincoln visitors organization has summer passport program option
The Lincoln Convention and Visitors Burear has a summer passport program for students to discover Lincoln.
For more information, visit www.lincoln.org or contact Tracie Simpson at 402-434-5339 or tsimpson@lincoln.org.
Posted on May 24, 2013
Fourth grader, teacher in wildlife art contest
Posted on May 24, 2013
Spring surplus auction set for June 8
The Lincoln Public Schools spring surplus auction will be held Saturday June 8th. Gates will open by 8 am and the bidding will begin at 9 am.
Posted on May 24, 2013
Recent Items
- First '5905' move-in date just three weeks away
- Teacher's Perspective: Jon Heithold, Lincoln East High School
- Teacher's Perspective: Marcella Sanchez-Nelsen, Lincoln Southeast HS
- Teacher's Perspective: Sarah Cal, Pound Middle School Art Teacher
- Teacher's Perspective: Lindsey Luly, Schoo Middle School
- Teacher’s Perspective: Ryan Salem, Lincoln Southwest High School
- Teacher's Perspective: Carrie Lautenschlager, Adams Elementary School
- Teacher's Perspective: Cyndi Tyler, Meadow Lane Kindergarten Teacher
- Teacher's Perspective: Eric Vacek, Kahoa Elementary P.E. teacher
- ExCITE fills early childhood years with appropriate learning opportunities
- LPS names Wright as security director
- Childs honored with regional administrator award
- Board of Education discusses High School Career Center recommendation
- New LPS elementary principal assignments announced
- Schools adding to, refining PBIS plans for year ahead
- Highlights of Board of Education’s 6/7 Finance Committee/Cost of new District Office building
- Superintendent Facility Advisory Committee receives more presentations, further discussion
- Foundation 2013 Educator Awards
- Adobe Certified Associate Exams for LPS Teachers and Students
- Screen Time Challenge reveals progress against bad habits
- Lincoln Board of Education highlights 5-28
- Discounted tickets available for this weekend's Lied shows
- Photos: Graduation 2013
- Leadership roles take shape, with Lacey Konwinski
- ‘There is no fear of failing,' with Jessica Tewalt
- Stretching her skills in math, with teacher Amy Davidson
- Taking on math’s ‘big’ ideas, with teacher Kristy Kennedy
- Multicultural Leadership: Shrinking the 'attitude gap' key for teachers, students
- Southeast prom queen shares joy, tiara
- Mourning Hope Grief Center Delivers “First Aid Kits for Grieving Hearts” to LPS Elementary Schools
- Graduates find college, career paths more attainable with scholarship
- This Weekend's Graduation Ceremonies
- Pyrtle's Blume named honorary admiral
- Leggiadro Named to EducationQuest Advisory Council
- Artist Opportunity: 7th Annual Exhibit of The National Arts Program
- Cohort of 35 LPS teachers earn Masters degrees from NWU
- LEA-R hosting garage sale Friday, Saturday
- Lincoln visitors organization has summer passport program option
- Fourth grader, teacher in wildlife art contest
- Spring surplus auction set for June 8
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