Kahoa welcomes the community during 50 year celebration

Kahoa Elementary School hits the half-century mark this year. The school commemorated its 50th anniversary with an open house on Oct. 9. 

“It’s a place that I remember fondly. It was great to just have the invitation,” retired Kahoa Principal Russ Reckewey said. 

“It’s kind of amazing to think about how many kids have come through here since I’ve been here, but also how important schools are in a community,” former Kahoa student Amy Guser said. She attended the school during the 80s. 

Dozens of former cougars, staff and community members strolled Kahoa’s halls during the celebration. Attendees flipped through yearbooks, visited decade-themed tables, munched on decorative cookies and struck a few poses at the photo booth during the event. Current students even led guided tours. 

“It was nice seeing people,” Chloe said. She’s a fifth-grade student who served as a tour guide. 

“It speaks so much on how much they valued their elementary school experience, so that’s exciting to see them come back,” Current Principal Khoa Principal Mandy Nickolite Greene added. 

Kahoa opened its doors in the fall of 1972 and is named after respected Lincoln Public Schools educator Evelyn Kahoa. The school now serves approximately 500 kindergarten to fifth-grade students. Several current and past cougars mentioned Kahoa means community, success and relationships to them, which aligns perfectly with the school’s mission – Fostering academic excellence and wellness for all students in a safe and caring environment. 

“I thought every kid who came through Kahoa was loved and they were going to get a great education,” Reckewey said. 

Kahoa also used its celebration to kick off its Fund a Need campaign with the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. The campaign is hoping to raise approximately $57-thousand to update the playground area. Updates will include adding inclusive equipment for students with disabilities and rubber padding beneath play structures. Click on this link to learn more about the Kahoa Fund a Need campaign.

Look at some highlights from Kahoa’s 50th Anniversary Celebration below. 

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