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Student News Desk | Dynamic Duo boosts Lincoln East Speech Team < Updated
Lincoln Public Schools understands the importance of quality journalism to help inform our community and shine a light on the people, programs and events that make our school district unique. Student News Desk is our ongoing effort to promote excellence in journalism and public education by selecting a story written by student journalists from our high school publications classes to be featured on the Lincoln Public Schools homepage and social media. |
Written by: Izzy Apel, East High
Spartan Speech has been on the rise lately, winning nine meets thus far in their 2022-2023 season. With over 80 individuals covering eleven events, their recipe for a successful season has been working. The Spartans are strong contenders for the 2023 State title and certainly have it in their sights. Every member on the team has a key role in helping East claim the championship.
Duo interpretations have become a popular event within Lincoln East’s speech team: they went from having two duos last year to five this year. One of this year’s duos to watch is the sophomore pair who placed 3rd at state last year, Max Apel and Jack Welstad.
“Duo is an event with two people acting out a play,” Welstad said. “The time limit is 10 minutes and you can’t look at or touch your partner, so you have to use creative blocking, [and] line delivery to make it interesting.”
Both Welstad and Apel got involved in speech through different means. Since Welstad knew he wanted to be in speech, he signed up for the Oral Comm Forensics class. Shortly after, Coach Herink reached out with details regarding the speech meeting. Jack then started his entertainment speech.
On the other hand, Apel started accidentally.
“I saw a Tik Tok that one of my friends posted about it and it looked funny,” Apel said. “They were all wearing suits and hanging out at 6 a.m., and I was like, maybe I’ll give it a shot.”
After a few false starts, Apel was paired up with Welsted. “Finally, at semester, they asked me if I wanted to be in a duo with Jack Welstad, ” Max said. Both agreed and they were given the script Crayon Map. The two have not looked back since.
In the beginning, the duo lacked chemistry. This made sense, as they had not gotten to know one another. They simply exchanged numbers and began memorizing alone.
“The clicking moment was the day before the work day and we were both not memorized at all,” Jack said. Comically, the workday was four days before their first tournament together.
“The more we worked together, the more we got to know each other,” Jack said. “Our chemistry became better and now it is kind of the thing we’re good at.”
Once their duo came together, it left those who watched it in tears. Oliver Leslie and Christopher Marianette’s script Crayon Map told a beautiful story of an older and younger brother who embarked on an emotional journey in the younger one’s imagination. Jack played the older brother, Max played the younger.
“Speech is a place where everyone loves acting and performing as much as I do,” Jack said. “Anyone can be good at speech if you put in the effort and work hard, and I love that. It’s full of supportive and kind people that you end up getting to spend a lot of time with.”
This year, Jack and Max have a different duo script: Swallowed by Brielle Dimirjian. It is a unique take on the biblical story, Jonah and the whale.
“The cool thing about our duo is [that] it’s a mixture of humorous and dramatic,” Max said. “So it’s kind of fun that we can both play on our strengths because we do serious [and] humor very well.”
There is an extensive process to get any speech up and running. This year, Max and Jack each have two individual events alongside their duo, meaning on a given tournament day they will perform around 120 minutes each.
“We don’t always memorize together,” Max said. “Usually it’s apart, and once we’re memorized, then we begin blocking our idea of the speech and the delivery of the lines.”
With help from the coaches, Jack and Max were able to have this year’s duo up after two weeks of practice.
“He’s the calm and confident one,” Max said regarding Jack. “You can always count on him being crisp: whether it’s characters, climactic moments, really anything.”
Each of their individual strengths allow the script to come alive.
“One of Max’s biggest strengths is that he is a big actor,” Jack said. “He’s always conveying emotions and really plays into his characters.”
Jack expressed one of his favorite memories being the time where he and Max were polishing their speech for NIETAC (National Individual Event Tournament Of Champions).
“We just got to hang out and work on our duo,” Jack said. “I got Jimmy Johns and it was awesome.”
Max has enjoyed all of the mini-tournaments thus far and also the 2022 State competition.
“During the season is always a good time,” Max said. “Because you get to meet people and hang out with the people on your own team. It’s fun stuff.”
Jack and Max operate like brothers, constantly bouncing jokes or ideas off one another. Both look forward to the future of their duo and the speech team as they enter championship season.
Check out this story and more at East High’s online publication: https://lehsoracle.com/
Posted on March 22, 2023
LPS announces next round of administrator changes < Updated
Lincoln Public Schools has named three more administrator changes in schools where recent changes were announced earlier this year.
“These administrators are prime examples of educators who have both the skills and the heart for leading our schools and the important work that happens in our classrooms every day,” said LPS Associate Superintendent for Instruction Matt Larson. “We are fortunate to have so many high-quality internal leaders willing to step up and continue their educational journey with us.”
Congratulations to the following:
- Brownell Elementary School: Nikosia Kruse will be the next principal at Brownell Elementary School. Kruse currently serves as an instructional coordinator at Pound Middle School. Prior to her role at Pound, Kruse taught at Arnold Elementary School for approximately 12 years. In 2015-16 she took a break from Lincoln Public Schools to teach at Nebraska City Public Schools for one year. Kruse earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education and Human Sciences from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction degree from Doane University, and is currently working on a Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree from Doane University.
- Randolph Elementary School: Ryan Erickson will be the next principal at Randolph Elementary School. Erickson currently serves as the school’s assistant principal, a role he has held since 2018. Prior to Randolph, he was a coordinator at Norwood Park Elementary school for two years. Erickson began his teaching career at Kooser Elementary School in 2010. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree from St. Cloud State University, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree from Doane University.
- Scott Middle School: Mike Gillotti will be dropping the word interim from the title of principal at Scott Middle School. He was named the interim principal in November during a shift in positions district-wide. Gillotti returned to LPS as instructional coordinator last summer from Bettendorf Community School District, where he served as the Associate Superintendent of Teaching and Learning. Gillotti was the principal at Southwest High School from 2015-2021. Prior to being a high school principal, Gillotti was an associate principal and an instructional coordinator at North Star, and he began his teaching career there. Gillotti earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; a Master of Arts in Historical Studies from Nebraska Wesleyan University; a Master of Education in 7-12 School Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; an Education Specialist certificate from Wayne State College; and a Doctorate of Education from Doane University.
The administrators will officially begin their new duties July 1, 2023.
Posted on March 20, 2023

Class equips Schoo students for leadership opportunities < New
Schoo Middle School eighth-grade students are honing their leadership skills through a semester-long elective class aimed at helping them develop life skills. Lessons include topics like goal setting, future planning, organization, time management and leadership.
“We learn habits to be a good leader. We demonstrate the skills and then use them throughout the school,” Schoo eighth-grade student Alex said.
“I wanted to get involved in this class. I like helping people and I think it’s good to be a leader,” fellow classmate Preston added.
The students get hands-on experience exercising leadership around Schoo and the community. They volunteer each Friday doing various service activities such as reading to Life Skills students, helping teachers with classroom projects and aiding with the YMCA preschool. Seventh-grade science teacher Bre Jones leads the class. She is integral in showing the eighth graders their potential and building it.
“I think it is important for students to see and develop their leadership potential early. Many of my students that come into the class do not see themselves as a leader, but by the end of the class, they do. They recognize their strengths and are more confident in themselves,” she said.
Schoo’s leadership class has been around for approximately seven years– helping the Skyhawks fulfill their mission of educating, enriching, serving and supporting.
“Schoo's Leadership students exemplify what we want our young scholars to achieve both academically and socially at Schoo Middle School. By setting an example for their peers, a positive culture is built to make Schoo Middle School a better environment for learning for all students,” Schoo Principal Ryan Escamilla said.
Posted on March 20, 2023

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation donation extends the gift of music at LPS < Updated
Goodrich Middle School seventh-grader Marley discovered her passion for the violin in fourth grade.
“I like playing in the orchestra and the violin because of the people around me. It’s just a fun environment to hang out. I really like sharing my knowledge of music and the music that we play with others,” she said.
More Lincoln Public Schools students now experience the gift of music thanks to a generous donation from Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. The foundation recently donated string and band instruments worth approximately $122,300 to five LPS schools: Belmont, Clinton and Hartley elementary schools, and Goodrich and Park middle schools. These schools were selected based on their free and reduced lunch percentage. This is the first time LPS has applied for the donation.
The gift will enhance each school’s music inventory by adding instruments and replacing older ones. The new instruments will also help students and families who cannot buy or rent their instruments – widening access to music education in schools.
“I think it’s a good idea to be getting more instruments because it gives more people a sense of what they might want to do and a chance for more people to get to play the instruments to experiment and understand the true quality of music,” Goodrich eighth grade student Yman said.
“Without this gift, there would be the possibility that I would have to turn students away or not be able to give them their first choice in instrument. The gratitude I feel for this gift cannot be measured in words, but only in the lives that are impacted through music we can create with the gift,” elementary school music teacher John Bailey said. He helps teach band at Hartley Elementary School.
Goodrich orchestra director Sarah Baker added,“Public education is defined by the responsibility to provide for every student that walks through the door. This gift of instruments means I'll be able to meet the needs of more students, especially those without the financial means to access the opportunity outside of school."
LPS will receive approximately 110 new instruments from the foundation. They will be distributed to the five schools by the end of the year.
Posted on March 20, 2023

LPS awarded federal grant to fund additional elementary counselors
Lincoln Public Schools is increasing support for its youngest scholars. The U.S. Department of Education recently awarded LPS a $7 million School-Based Mental Health Services Grant over five years, which will help add a full-time counselor to every elementary school.
“Never has it been more crucial that elementary students in particular have access to a professional with knowledge and expertise on mental health issues and strategies to mitigate those issues,” LPS Federal Program Director Linda Hix said.
Elementary school counselors lead the implementation of social-emotional skill development for students, allowing them to develop healthy identities and manage emotions. They also help teach other key life skills like feeling and showing empathy for others and making responsible and caring decisions.
“School counselors have a unique skill set. School counselors are educators that serve to help students learn skills that can help them be successful in school and beyond,” Lori Hemmett said. Hemmett is the supervisor for school counselors and school social workers.
“School counselors in elementary schools are critical to the development of a schoolwide culture that is both safe and caring and encourages academic excellence,” Hix added.
Currently, only 30 of the 40 LPS elementary schools have full-time counselors. Riley is one of those 30 schools. Rachel George serves as the school counselor, and acts as a liaison between students, teachers and families to help kids thrive in and out of the classroom.
“I am able to focus on feelings and emotions in all areas of our building. We are now using a common language, which makes social and emotional learning equitable to all students. Our goal is to help students be able to manage and regulate their big feelings,” George added.
“Now that we’ve had a full-time, on-site counselor for two years, I can’t imagine how we did things without one. Our counselor works so well with the rest of our staff to focus on the whole child,” Riley principal Jeff Bjorkman said.
Posted on March 16, 2023

LPS adds more Safety Social Workers to help school security
Lincoln Public Schools recently added a new member to the threat assessment team.
Safety Social Worker Kristi Lange joined the team of four in January.
Lange and her colleagues assist with keeping more than 41,000 students safe. They collaborate with students who are at risk and their families to prevent unsafe situations. The Threat Assessment staff connects them to school and community resources like mental health services. Lange is now one of the two social workers on the team.
“I provide a non-judgmental approach when working with them and help them identify what things they feel are going well for them, build upon those strengths, but also help them identify what areas in their life they need the most help and start there. It’s really about meeting them where they are,” Lange said.
LPS has more than 40 school social workers working to build relationships with students, families and staff to identify the best possible solutions. Lange and fellow safety social worker Allyson Headrick focus on prevention by assessing reported concerns, intervening and monitoring before it reaches a crisis.
“LPS school social workers are master-level clinical social workers and licensed mental health practitioners, so we bring a unique skill set into our schools,” Lange added. “With our mental health expertise, we are able to connect the dots when something seems amiss and effectively help students and families get connected to additional supports.”
The threat assessment team works on approximately 120 cases each year. Some cases carry over from the previous year. The increased volume made it clear that an extra social worker was needed to serve students and families better.
“For every case that is successfully managed, we are creating a safer environment and preventing violence from occurring,” Jon Sundermeier said. Sundermeier is one of the security coordinators and leads the threat assessment staff.
Lange brings excellent expertise. She graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a master's degree in Social Work. She is a licensed mental health practitioner and licensed clinical social worker. She’s worked for LPS for the past five years, including serving as the social worker at Riley Elementary School. She also served as a therapist at a substance use treatment facility helping teens and adults before coming to LPS.
“Kristi has experience and expertise in behavioral health and a broad understanding of available resources in the community,” Sundermeier said. “She also brings certification and expertise in drug and alcohol abuse and addiction to the team, which will enhance our team's ability to address this risk factor."
“Our staff and students deserve a safe learning environment each and every day,” Lange said. “Being a part of a team that actively works to ensure that happens is what motivates me to continue to help improve safety outcomes with our students and families.”
Check out this feature story about some more of our social workers by clicking here.
Posted on March 15, 2023

First annual African Diaspora Symposium builds connections within the Northeast community
Students at Northeast High School worked with student advocate Kwame Gyamfi on a special event to help connect the Lincoln community through the African Diaspora Symposium.
The African diaspora refers to “the voluntary and involuntary movement of Africans and their descendants to various parts of the world.” The school hosted its first-ever African Diaspora Symposium to help people better understand the connections between African Americans and Africa.
“It is an opportunity for students at Northeast High School to showcase their diversity in talent,” Gyamfi said.
The event featured several vendors, community organizations and various artist booths throughout the building. It was also a good opportunity for local small businesses to increase their visibility like Northeast High School junior Tawfig. Tawfig was one of the business owners and used the symposium to help bring awareness to his clothing line of hoodies.
“I think it’s a great opportunity just to get some exposure from the community and let my name be known by other people,” Tawfig said.
Attendees could enjoy several live performances throughout the afternoon, including traditional African dancing, student poets, Northeast’s drum circle and step teams. Northeast ninth-grade student, Corinn, was one of the feature poets.
“I feel events like this are important because it helps spread awareness that there is a community here and there are people here to support you and listen to you,” she said.
Organizers and participants hope the symposium fosters community and greater cultural awareness.
“I think it’s all about representation and being with other people like you. I think being able to
see others like yourself just helps us embrace our culture,” Tawfig said.
“I hope they take away that there is a place where you can go to learn more about culture or learn more about your culture,” Corinn added.
Check out highlights from the cultural celebration below.
Posted on March 14, 2023
LPS announces Andrew Sherman as next athletic and activities director for Southwest High School
Lincoln Public Schools Athletic Department announced on Friday that Andrew Sherman will be the next athletic and activities director at Southwest High School. Sherman currently serves as the Silver Hawks varsity football coach and Physical Education teacher. Sherman’s new duties will officially begin on July 1 when current Southwest AD Mark Armstrong retires after 37 years in education.
Sherman has been a part of the Silver Hawk community since 2002 when he joined as a PE teacher and coach for various sports. His coaching duties at Southwest have included boys junior varsity soccer, freshmen and reserve girls basketball, boys and girls shot put and discus, and various coaching roles on football teams. Sherman has been leading the Silver Hawks varsity football team since 2015.
Sherman earned his Bachelors of Science in Physical Education from Peru State College, and a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership from Doane University.
Posted on March 13, 2023

Morley Elementary celebrates Nebraska’s statehood with Gov. Pillen
Nebraska’s top leader visited Morley Elementary to celebrate the state’s birthday.
The Meadowlarks hosted Gov. Jim Pillen on March 1. The school greeted him with a necklace adorned with a cutout of Nebraska before he observed reading in a second-grade classroom.
“This is a big deal. This is the governor,” Morley fourth-grade student Maverik said.
“Students and staff were honored the Governor visited Morley to celebrate Nebraska's Birthday,” Principal Brandi Hennerberg. “We were also excited that he could see us teaching and learning.”
The Governor later went to the gym to interact with Morley’s fourth-grade students. They serenaded him with “Beautiful Nebraska” before he gave him a brief state history lesson. The students also had the opportunity to ask Gov. Pillen a few questions. The governor shared his favorite things about the state, like its people and land. Fourth-grade students across the state learn about Nebraska's history, so the visit was timely.
“I probably knew about 10%, but now I think I know about 99% because my teacher has taught a lot,” Morley fourth-grade student Avery added.
After the Q & A session, the fourth-grade students sang Happy Birthday to honor Nebraska’s statehood before the governor left.
Look at some highlights from Gov. Pillen’s visit to Morley below.
Posted on March 06, 2023

United Way volunteers distribute books and read to students at Clinton Elementary School
On multiple occasions every year, United Way mobilizes volunteers from Lincoln’s top workplaces to read and distribute books to students at local elementary schools. One such occasion, Read Across America, is a national reading event that takes place each year on or around March 2. United Way has long supported this event at Campbell and McPhee elementary schools.
Both the distribution of books and the reading aloud are important aspects of the event. Reading aloud is known to improve language development and boost literacy skills, while books at home propel the child forward academically and has been shown to break the link between poverty and poor academic outcomes. Some of the kids tell volunteers it is the first book they get to call their own.
Campbell and McPhee elementary schools are supported through United Way’s ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. initiative which ensures that children and their families have the opportunity to succeed in school and life regardless of their circumstances. This year, ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. is expanding to include Clinton Elementary School. On March 2, in celebration of Read Across America, this will be the first time United Way volunteers are entering Clinton Elementary School.
“Clinton Elementary is fortunate to have the opportunity to be included in United Way’s ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. initiative. This partnership will benefit our scholars and provide additional opportunities for learning. We appreciate being included in this impactful initiative,” says Angee Luedtke Clinton principal.
In addition to volunteering that takes place regularly throughout the year, the schools receive funding from ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. that makes it possible to provide additional supports to students and their families, such as family literacy, mental health supports, and after school programs to name a few. Specifically at Clinton, this will provide for the school community coordinator at their Community Learning Center, whose lead agency is CEDARS, as well as the ability to expand mental health support to students.
"Our Community Learning Centers are successful because of partnerships like the one with United Way. With both the financial support, as well as connecting caring volunteers to our schools the students, families and neighborhood thrive,” says Nola Derby-Bennett, director of Lincoln Community Learning Centers.
ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. is a joint undertaking by United Way’s Women United and United Way’s Emerging Leaders United, two groups of donors who pledge their support to this specific cause.
“My fellow Women United and Emerging Leaders United members are proud to be expanding ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. to include Clinton Elementary School and support more students,“ says Michelle St.Clair, of Perspective Planning Partners and past president of Women United. “When you hear about the needs that children in our community are facing, especially in the area of mental health, how can you not raise your hand and say, ‘I want to help be the answer to that!’”
United Way hopes to gather enough support for ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. over the next several years to expand to a fourth school in the future.
About United Way of Lincoln and Lancaster County
Celebrating 100 years of being there, United Way brings the entire community together to create long-term lasting change. By mobilizing the caring power of the Lincoln and Lancaster County community, United Way improves the lives of every resident. Ultimately, we envision a community where all residents have the opportunity to thrive.
About Lincoln Community Learning Centers
Lincoln Community Learning Centers provide a fun, educational delivery system that uses neighborhood schools as the central gathering place for students, families and neighborhoods. The CLC initiative supports 29 schools in the development and implementation of high quality extended learning opportunities, weekend and summer enrichment programs and other supportive services for children, youth, families, and neighborhood residents.
Posted on March 02, 2023
LPS response to national 'SWATting' calls
Superintendent Dr. Paul Gausman is releasing the following response to news reports indicating that multiple schools across the nation received information about fake emergencies inside schools today:
"We can confirm that Lincoln Police received a phone call this morning that reported an emergency at one of our schools. Lincoln Police working with our staff were able to quickly determine the call was a hoax and part of a national trend aimed at disrupting the learning environment in our schools. We appreciate the continued collaboration and communication with our law enforcement partners. Earlier this week our security department was already aware of the national trend and working with law enforcement on how to best manage 'swatting' incidents which allowed us to be prepared for today's event. It is important we do not further contribute to the disruption created by these bad actors."
We would like to remind you, school safety takes a community and we take all reports seriously. If you have a safety concern, please report it to law enforcement or use the green Safe to Say button on our website. Thank you for your continued efforts in keeping our schools safe.
Posted on March 02, 2023
Highlights of the 2/28 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
The Lincoln Board of Education met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street. The full meeting video and a summary are below.
First reading
Lincoln High Annex renovation project
Staff recommended the Board vote to approve the lowest bid from Genesis Contracting for $7,108,200 to renovate the annex at Lincoln High School. Renovations will include HVAC systems, lighting upgrades and painting. This will include renovations to science, family and consumer science and early childhood classrooms. The project will be phased over 18 months.
Because there is only one meeting at the end of March, the Board waived second reading and voted to approve the lowest bid.
Second reading
Newly annexed property to the City of Lincoln
The Board of Education assigns school attendance areas to property newly annexed to the City of Lincoln. This action establishes school attendance areas prior to the sale of residential lots, allowing purchasers to know what schools their children will attend.
The proposal assigns the newly annexed area of Lincoln Logistics Hub to Norwood Park Elementary School, Dawes Middle School and Northeast High School.
The Board voted to approve the assignments.
Policy 5505 - Wellness
Lincoln Public Schools reviews policies on an ongoing basis and updates policies to ensure that they accurately reflect the ever-changing work of the district and changes in state and federal laws.
Every three years, the Board is required by law to review the wellness policy. Highlights of the changes include:
- A heading was changed from Nutrition to Essential Tier I Programs to better capture the supports all students receive.
- Work by Health Services was added to the policy along with Social and Emotional Learning as part of the wellness program.
- Language about access students have to drinking water was added to match current practice.
- More guidance was also added about “smart snack” rewards.
You can read the full policy changes here. The Board voted to approve the changes.
K-6 reading curriculum materials
Last meeting, LPS Director of Curriculum and Instruction Takako Olson and LPS K-6 English Language Arts Curriculum Specialist Lisa Oltman presented to the Board a recommended reading curriculum and materials.
The Amplify CKLA curriculum is being piloted in four LPS schools this year: Huntington, Lakeview, Robinson and Wysong elementary schools. This researched-based curriculum is a blended mix of print and digital resources that develops strong knowledge and reading comprehension skills. The program is strongly aligned with Nebraska State English/Language Arts standards (adopted by the state in 2021) and is well-aligned to best practices in English/Language Arts education and the district's instructional framework. This curriculum was selected by a committee of teachers, administrators, and community members over the course of curriculum study for the last two years.
Staff recommend the purchase of CKLA and English Language Arts curriculum materials to be used in grades K-6 at Lincoln Public Schools beginning in 2023-2024.
The Board voted to approve the purchase.
Ukrainian Refugee School Impact Grant application
A federal appropriation is being provided by the Office of Refugee Resettlement with specific appropriations to provide services to support citizens or nationals of Ukraine. Many newly arrived Ukrainian families have young children who will need additional supports to help with effective integration and education.
Lincoln Public School would like to apply for a grant to support a full-time bilingual liaison position dedicated to serving the needs of new Ukrainian arrivals to Lincoln. The primary focus of the bilingual liaison is educational support of new students and their parents as they navigate the U.S. education system, but also includes social and emotional support as well. The LPS proposal would also include support for school social worker time to partner with the new bilingual liaison to conduct a New Americans Social and Emotional Support series in schools where these students would be served.
The Board voted to approve the application.
Informational items and reports
Finance committee update
The Board on Tuesday was presented with the 2023-2024 budget calendar, which includes the following:
- Budget work session June 27
- Community presentations and public forums in June and July
- Preliminary budget available Aug. 22
- Publication of the budget hearing date Sept. 17
- Joint public hearing with other city and county entities Sept. 18-22
- Public hearing/budget forum Sept. 25
- Budget approval Sept. 26
More information about the budget process will be available soon on the LPS website.
Wellness, American Civics and Multicultural committee
Committee chair Annie Mumgaard reported that the Wellness, American Civics and Multicultural committee met on Tuesday to review social studies curriculum and objectives.
The committee also learned about the voter registration drives being held at all high schools and the Bryan Community Focus Program.
Superintendent update
Superintendent Paul Gausman provided an update to the Board about recent and upcoming news and events from across the school district.
Gausman reiterated that he was proud of Prescott administrators and staff in how they remained calm and kept students safe during the incident last Friday. Staff also prioritized keeping the day and week as normal as possible so as to not further traumatize students. He also thanked Lincoln Police for their continued collaboration and support in keeping our schools safe.
He added, “Every child deserves to go to school in a safe, warm and loving environment that fosters learning and not one that feels scary. We will continue to review our protocols with LPS Security and Threat Assessment to find that balance.”
Gausman also thanked the 45 school social workers who serve Lincoln elementary, middle and high schools. Next week is National School Social Work Week, and he wanted to acknowledge all that they do. School social workers help students deal with mental health and behavioral challenges and provide academic and classroom support. They also work with crisis interventions, and identify and report child neglect and abuse.
“Our social workers are an important part of our school teams that support student academic, social and emotional development,” Gausman said.
Gausman also congratulated the student-athletes who competed in state competitions. He shared that there were 17 wrestlers and 38 students participating in state diving and swimming brought home state medals. There are also three girls’ basketball teams and three boys’ basketball teams with Lincoln High boys playing for the district championship on Tuesday.
To wrap up his report, Gausman invited the community to the second annual CLC Walk Together Event being held on Friday, March 4, from 5:30 -7:00 p.m. in the University Place Neighborhood. Students in CLC programs from Brownell, Clinton, Huntington, Norwood Park, Pershing, Riley, Hartley, Culler, Mickle, Dawes and Northeast will present what they have learned about sustainability in collaboration with our CLC community partners and University Place businesses.
Public comment
There were five individuals that addressed the Board during public comment. You can watch the public comment agenda item in the full meeting video here.
Glimpses of LPS
We open every Board meeting with a video that highlights Lincoln Public Schools. Tuesday’s Glimpses featured Independence Academy student Heba.
Posted on February 28, 2023

Student News Desk | Recent Graduates: Where are they now?
Lincoln Public Schools understands the importance of quality journalism to help inform our community and shine a light on the people, programs and events that make our school district unique. Student News Desk is our ongoing effort to promote excellence in journalism and public education by selecting a story written by student journalists from our high school publications classes to be featured on the Lincoln Public Schools homepage and social media. |
Written by: Alex Hill, Lincoln High
Hundreds of people graduate from Lincoln High School every year. Seeing as I’m about to do the same, I wanted to know how last year’s graduates were doing and what their plans were for their future. I managed to sit down with five people from the class of 2022 and see what they had to say.
Zeph Siebler, who attends Yale.
Zeph Siebler was in the IB program during his time at Lincoln High and now goes to Yale University. Siebler describes his time at LHS to overall be a really great experience saying “In most regards, I really made the most of my time, and I struck a good balance between work, play, and rest, a skill which I find many of my college peers lack.” However, Siebler misses connecting to his teachers in the way that he used to. “I can’t make as meaningful a connection with my instructor as when I saw them for an hour five days a week. It doesn’t mean I haven’t made some of those connections, but it’s just been tougher”. All that being said though, Siebler’s life has only been going up from his time in high school when he describes his time in college as a chance to “pursue my every passion in a very safe space.” He also states that “I’ve also found the sense of community I was feeling a lack of in high school.” Right now, Siebler’s future plans are focused on creative endeavors in college and he hasn’t planned too far beyond that. “My plans don’t extend past the penumbra of undergrad work.” Siebler believes that he’s on the right path to achieve his creative plans because of the institution of Yale. “I’m fortunate to be a part of an institution that not only is one of the best liberal arts educations (I) could ever ask for, but that also caters very specifically to my passions, within and outside of my plans to compose for musical theatre.” In the next five years, he hopes to be working on a show that will go through a theater outside of the Yale campus. “To get there, my only choice is to write and not stop writing until I get capital-B Better, which is a thrilling and terrifying choice I’m so thankful I get to make.”
Susan Montoya Alvis, who attends Morningside University.

Susana Montoya Alvis took mainly on-level and AP classes during her time at Lincoln High, but she participated in our theater program during her time here. She now attends Morningside University. She never had a dull moment at Lincoln High and misses being able to take part in theater after school. She doesn’t think she’s changed too much since her freshman year because her passion for art is still going strong. “I don’t think I’ve changed all that much because I still want to be an artist! I’ve matured and learned a lot from my experiences in and outside of school, however.” Montoya Alvis believes her life has gotten better since high school because of the classes she’s able to take and the respect others show for her. “In college I’m able to take classes I enjoy and wish to actually learn. I’m also treated with more respect since (being) out of high school which gives me lots of motivation!” Montoya Alvis plans on furthering her art and her dream of being a full time artist. She’s currently studying to be an art teacher as well saying “I’d also love to teach and inspire the youth to do art!” In the next five years, Montoya Alvis is looking forward to being able to start living her life. She states “I hope to graduate with a job and an apartment, be able to put food on the table, and still be in my current relationship.”
Jackie Jiminez, who works for Bryan Health.
The next person I interviewed was Jackie Jiminez who was in the pre-IB program and was the head of scenic crew for theater during her time at Lincoln High and participated in the theater program all four years. She loved her time at Lincoln High School saying “it was amazing and chaotic”. Jiminez misses the theater program because of how fun it was for her and the time she got to spend with friends. Jiminez wishes she worried less about classes and grades and had focused more on the fun and social aspects of her time as an LHS student. She is still in her transition from high school to college and works for Bryan Health as a nurse. Jiminez still finds herself pining after her time in high school, however, saying “I’m just really bored now. I miss being chaotic with my friends.” She’s had some trouble finding her footing in college because she finds herself dropping out before taking the classes. Jiminez hopes to become a midwife in the future. She believes that this goal is very realistic saying “I hope to have at least started a program in college. This is very realistic, but I need to make myself do it.”
Thomas Scott, who attends UNL.

Thomas Scott currently attends the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but during his time as a high schooler enjoyed the community that came with LHS. “Even a shy kid like freshman me found a place almost immediately and I felt so welcome! The community’s terrific, the faculty is amazing, and I would do it all over again if I could.” Like Jiminez, Scott also misses seeing so many friendly faces every day and finds it hard to connect with people as easily. “ In college, everyone is so categorized and spread out and classes are ginormous so it’s definitely more difficult to make and maintain meaningful connections, but I’m slowly and surely making progress!” In spite of this, college has been treating Scott pretty well saying that he is loving all of the new opportunities presented to him in college. Scott plans on completing his undergraduate studies in Psychology and Biology followed by a Ph.D. in the neuropsychological field. Scott hopes to use this knowledge to become a clinical neuropsychologist. He believes that this is a reasonable bar that he’s set for himself as well stating “My majors are lining me up on the perfect path, I’ve joined a research laboratory that studies traumatic brain injuries, and I’m keeping up with my schoolwork well!”
Syndi Raley, who is working on a drug abuse counseling certificate.

The last person that I interviewed was Syndi Raley. Raley bounced between LHS and Northeast for a while before graduating with Lincoln High. Raley was part of several theater departments including lighting, makeup, set construction, and even acting. If she could sum up her time at LHS, she would say that it was fun. It goes without saying that she loved the theater department and that it was a source of joy for her. She believes her life has gotten both better and worse since her time in high school saying “Things are going good for me but I do miss feeling like a kid.” She also misses seeing people every day saying “I haven’t’ been seeing people as much (since) graduating.” Raley’s life is just getting started however as she is currently taking a couple online courses to get a certificate in drug abuse counseling from the University of Cincinnati. From there, she plans on going for a degree in psychology. Beyond college, she looks forward to being graduated and living on her own fully with a full time job.
Interviewing these people gave me a good idea for what to expect in my years to come. It showed me that college is full of experiences that I can explore to my heart’s content, but I have to advocate for myself in order to find those experiences. While some people have found their time since high school to be more isolating than they had expected, interviewing these people has restored a sense of excitement in me for what comes next in my life.
Check out this story and more at Lincoln High’s online publication: https://lhsadvocate.com/
Posted on February 27, 2023
LPS announces new principals at Goodrich, Rousseau and Yankee Hill
Lincoln Public Schools has named three new principals to schools where recent changes were announced earlier this year.
“These established leaders have proven through their service to be dedicated to the success of students,” said LPS Associate Superintendent for Instruction Matt Larson. “We know they will build upon the legacy already established in each building and continue the pursuit of excellence for their staff and students.”
Congratulations to the following:
- Goodrich Middle School: Brownell Elementary principal Kelly Apel returns to Goodrich Middle School to be the next principal following the retirement announcement of Kelly Schrad. Apel served as the associate principal at Goodrich from 2011 until she was named the principal at Brownell in 2017. She has also worked at Clinton Elementary as associate principal, and Park Middle School as instructional coordinator and teacher. Apel obtained her Masters of Education from Doane College, her Bachelor of Science in Education from Peru State College, and a Bachelors of Arts in Communication Studies from the University of Iowa.
- Rousseau Elementary School: Randolph Elementary principal Monica Jochum will be moving to Rousseau Elementary with the announcement of Wendy Badje’s retirement. Jochum has been the principal at Randolph since 2018, and has previously taught at Adams and Campbell elementary schools, as well as Ackerman Elementary in Millard. She earned her Bachelor's degree, as well as her Master’s of Curriculum and Master’s in Education Leadership degrees from Doane.
- Yankee Hill Education Center: LPS Special Education supervisor Amanda (Hemenway) Shonka will be the next Yankee Hill principal following the retirement announcement of Laura Runge. Shonka moved to LPS Special Education in 2021 after serving as the assistant principal at Hill Elementary School since 2016. Prior to Hill, she was a Special Education coordinator at Schoo Middle School for three years, and taught there from 2009-2013. Shonka was also a paraeducator for four years. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Special Education degree from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, and a Master of Educational Leadership degree from Doane University.
The administrators will begin their new duties July 1, 2023.
Posted on February 27, 2023
Lincoln Police and Prescott Elementary administration quickly and safely handle security incident at school
Lincoln Police were called to Prescott Elementary School to assist with a security incident reported to administration. Here is a timeline of events as reported through the initial investigation:
- A fifth grade student showed a Prescott student a handgun in their backpack and made concerning comments about violence toward that student.
- A student then told their teacher who immediately called administrators.
- The administrators removed the backpack from the coat hooks and brought it to the office. Police were called immediately to come to the school.
- Because the backpack was secured immediately and the situation was made safe quickly, there was not a need to use any of our Standard Response Protocols.
- A police officer did find a loaded handgun in the student’s backpack.
- The students’ families were contacted and police began their investigation by talking with the students involved.
- The student who brought the firearm to school will be facing legal consequences.
- We will continue to work with Lincoln Police and Lincoln Public Schools Security to ensure a safe learning environment for everyone at Prescott.
Prescott Principal JJ Wilkins wrote to families in an email:
“We know this is concerning news to hear. We are very proud of the student who reported the safety concern to their teacher when they felt unsafe. It is the important work of our staff at Prescott in building trusting relationships with our students that lead to this serious situation being resolved without anyone being hurt. We are thankful for the quick response by Lincoln Police and their continued collaboration in keeping our students and staff safe.”
Lincoln Public Schools reminds families that school safety takes a community and we need your help:
- Please remind your student to tell a trusted adult immediately if they see or hear something that makes them feel unsafe. They can tell a trusted adult at home or school, or they can report it using the green “Safe to Say” button on the LPS website.
- Have a conversation with your child about the dangers of handling weapons without adult permission or supervision. Lincoln Public Schools is taking this opportunity to remind families the importance of keeping all weapons and ammunition safely away from children and adolescents to prevent intentional and unintentional harm. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that the most reliable and effective measure to prevent injuries in children and adolescents is an absence of weapons. Safe weapon storage reduces a child’s risk of injury.
- Please help us reinforce our lessons we teach at school about positive peer interactions. We understand that not everyone is going to always get along, but there are healthy ways to resolve conflicts that do not include a physical reaction. We need to be respectful to ourselves, our peers, our teachers and our school. We follow directions, honor each other's space and engage in positive interactions. Most importantly, we need to remember to be kind to one another. Encourage your student to share with adults at school if they are having issues with friends or other students. We believe it is important that we repair relationships where they are harmed and we want to help our students do that.
LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman said about the incident, “This is a phone call that a superintendent never wants to receive, but I was very proud of our Prescott administrators and staff in how they remained calm and kept students safe during this incident. These professionals continue to build positive relationships with students which led to the reporting of an unsafe situation. It was brave of that student to come forward and tell their teacher what they saw. We are appreciative of Lincoln Police and their quick reaction to the situation. Lincoln Police have been a great collaborative partner in keeping our schools safe.”
Gausman went on to say, “Our schools are safe because of our community’s ongoing efforts to remain vigilant and share information when there is a concern. We encourage anyone who sees or hears something of concern to report it immediately so we can continue to ensure a safe learning environment for all.”
Posted on February 24, 2023
Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - February 28, 2023
The Lincoln Board of Education will hold its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. located in the Boardroom at Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
Members of the public and media may access the meeting via live video streaming or by physically attending the meetings, which are subject to all national, state and local limitations on public gatherings associated with COVID-19. Overflow accommodations may need to be implemented to ensure the health and safety of all in attendance.
The agenda for all meetings can be found here: lps.org/board.
There are multiple ways to view the livestream of the regular meeting:
- Board webpage
- LPS YouTube Channel
- LNK TV Education Channel (Spectrum channel 1303, Allo channel 23, or LNKTV in the AppleTV and Roku app store)
Participation by citizens in the regular board meeting
The Board believes public attendance and participation, when appropriate to the business at hand, is beneficial to the work of the Board and models the importance of civic engagement and civil discourse to the community’s children, but it cannot impede the Board from completing the business of the meeting.
In keeping with Board Policy 8420 and Neb Statute 84-1412(3), the Lincoln Board of Education has established these reasonable regulations to conduct Public Comment:
- Persons speaking during Public Comment will be called forward individually by the Board Chair to the location identified for such purpose.
- A time limit of three minutes will be allotted for any speaker unless prior to the beginning of the Public Comment agenda item, the chair sets a different reasonable time frame to be allotted for speakers in order to accommodate the number of persons who have submitted "Record of Appearance" cards. The time limit is per speaker, per meeting and may not be transferred or assigned to other speakers.
- The chair may endeavor to organize public comment by what agenda items or other issues have been identified as topics by public speakers, adjust for the age of speakers, and/or split the Public Comment agenda item to be conducted in different positions within the Board’s Order of Business. At the discretion of the chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time. Board members may share, address or consider comments from the public during public comment, at the end of public comment or when related business is on the agenda.
- In order to be called forward to address the Board during Public Comment, each person wishing to speak must obtain a "Record of Appearance" card from staff at the meeting in which they wish to speak. "Record of Appearance" cards are available beginning 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the meeting. Those wishing to speak must accurately complete the required sections of the card, and submit it to the appropriate staff member by 15 minutes after the start of the meeting.
- Individuals will be called forward to speak by name, organization being represented, if applicable, and address. Each individual speaking to the Board will be required to identify himself or herself prior to giving public comment by stating their first and last name and, if applicable, any organization they represent.
- In cases where more than one person wishes to speak on the same topic, their presentations to the Board may, at the discretion of the chair, be grouped together by topic.
- If the number of people wishing to speak under the public comment portions of the agenda is large, the chair may rule that a public hearing be scheduled.
- Persons speaking to the Board during public comment may make printed materials (paper no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches) available to the Board but may not use any other form of media. Public speakers are asked to provide 10 copies of any copies of printed materials presented to the Board.
Persons attending Board meetings and/or speaking to the Board during Public Comment or during a public hearing must follow all requirements established by the Board, as well as all Board, chair and staff directions in order to help maintain the order, proper decorum, safety and security, and the non-disruptive functioning of the Board meeting. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Abiding by time limits;
- Refraining from applauding, cheering, jeering, or engaging in speech that defames any individual(s), or stymies or blocks meeting progress;
- Refraining from the use of audio recordings, video recordings, or any digital still images, posters, signs, costumes, other props and/or photographs;
- Refraining from abusive, disruptive or threatening language or gestures; and
- Staying in the areas identified by the Board as reserved for the public.
If at any time persons appearing before the Board do not comply with these or any other Board requirements, it shall be the responsibility of the chair to declare that person or persons out of order and require a change in behavior, delay or recess the meeting, or refuse permission to continue to address the Board, and ultimately may require the person or persons to leave the premises of the Board meeting.
Posted on February 24, 2023
2023-2024 Educator Interview Fair - February 24
Are you or someone you know interested in a career as an educator at Lincoln Public schools? Certificated candidates interested in becoming a teacher (general, special education, early childhood), counselor, school psychologist, speech-language pathologist, social worker or school nurse within Lincoln Public Schools are eligible to participate in our Educator Interview Fair.
Educator Interview Fair
Friday, Feb. 24, 2023
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Over Zoom or in-person at the Steve Joel District Leadership Center (the district office at 5905 O Street).
All interested candidates must reserve their spot by filling out the form: bit.ly/LPSEducatorFair.
If you are not available on Feb. 24 or have questions, please contact Erik Witt, Director of Recruitment, at ewitt@lps.org.
Posted on February 20, 2023

Lux sixth grade student wins 2023 annual Spelling Bee
"Venus is the most prominent vespertine planet," pronouncer Cyndy Maddox told Lumi Kim as she prepared to spell the winning word of the Lincoln Public Schools 2023 Oral Spelling Bee.
Prior to Lux sixth grade student Kim winning in round five, judges were checking the rules on how to proceed with the competition. In round four, with only three spellers left, Kim was the only speller to correctly spell their word. Both Libby Wilson and Lindsey Parrotto, seventh grade students from Irving Middle School had both misspelled their words in round four. By spelling vespertine correctly, thereby getting two words correct in a row, Kim was crowned the winner.
"I prepared a bit late," said Kim. "Winning feels good."
Wilson and Parrotto needed to participate in a spell-off to determine second place. Parrotto won second with the word gaff.
Kim is now entered into the Omaha World-Herald Midwest Spelling Bee in March, and the winner of that contest will be flown to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May.
LPS co-sponsors the spelling bee with the Lincoln Journal Star.
Posted on February 17, 2023
LPS announces administrator changes for the 2023-24 school year
Following the recent announcement of administrator retirements, Lincoln Public Schools announces the first in a series of administrator movements for the 2023-24 school year.
“We are fortunate to have talented and experienced leaders in our district who are excited and willing to take on new opportunities and challenges,” said LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman. “Each of these leaders has proven through their dedication and passion that they are up to the task of moving LPS forward in serving each and every student.”
Congratulations to these LPS administrators on their new positions:
Marco Pedroza
Director of Federal Programs
Marco Pedroza will serve as the director of Federal Programs. Pedroza was named the interim supervisor of secondary personnel services in November and will continue hiring teachers for secondary schools through June 30. He had been the principal at Scott Middle School since 2018. Prior to taking on that position, he was the associate principal at Lincoln Southwest High School, and an instructional coach at Schoo Middle School. Pedroza has taught at Southwest High School and Dawes Middle School. Pedroza also served as a bilingual liaison in LPS Federal Programs. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; a teaching certification from Doane University; a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and a Master of Education in Education Leadership from Doane University; an Educational Specialist certificate from Wayne State College; and a Doctorate of Education from Doane University.
Erik Witt
Supervisor of Secondary Personnel and Director of Recruiting
Erik Witt will be the supervisor of secondary personnel services and director of recruiting. Witt joined the LPS HR team in 2021 as the supervisor of special programs personnel and recruiting coordinator. Prior to his HR role, Witt was the principal at Yankee Hill Education Center for five years, and an associate principal at Southeast High School for ten years. Before moving to Southeast, he taught Special Education and served as both a general and Special Education coordinator at North Star HS. Witt began his teaching career at Elliott Elementary school in 2001 as a Special Education teacher. He earned his Education Specialist Degree from Doane University in 2018. Witt also has a Masters of Education in Education Leadership degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary and Special Education from Doane.
Jenny Fundus
Supervisor of Special Programs Personnel
Jenny Fundus will help lead the school district’s prioritized efforts in recruiting and hiring certificated staff as the supervisor of special programs personnel in the fall of 2023. Fundus came to LPS in 2012 as the director of Special Education. Prior to LPS, she was the coordinator and later director of early childhood education for Bellevue Public Schools. She began her teaching career in 1999, focusing on Special Education. She taught in Bellevue and Omaha before becoming principal at Central Elementary School in Bellevue in 2005. Fundus has an Educational Administration and Supervision Doctoral Degree from the University of Nebraska - Omaha. She also earned a Masters in Educational Administration and Supervision from UNO and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Nebraska Wesleyan University.
Mindy Roberts
Interim Director of Special Education
Mindy Roberts has been named as the interim director of Special Education for the 2023-24 school year. Roberts has been serving as the assistant director of Special Education since 2021. Prior to that role, she was a Special Education supervisor for five years after serving as the principal at Bryan Community Focus Program from 2010-2016. Roberts was a Special Education coordinator at Schoo Middle School from 2009-2010, Scott Middle School from 2002-2009 and Pershing Elementary School for one year. Roberts started at LPS in 2000 at Goodrich Middle School. She also taught Special Education at Grand Island Public Schools and Epworth Village in York, Nebraska. Roberts earned her Doctorate of Education degree, certifications for secondary school principal and supervision of Special Education, and Master of Education in Special Education/Behavior Disorders degree from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Roberts earned a Bachelors in Elementary Education from Kearney State College.
Pete Ferguson
Coordinator of Culture, Inclusion, and Scholar Development and Assistant Supervisor of Recruiting
Pete Ferguson has been selected as the assistant supervisor of recruiting in addition to his role of coordinator of culture, inclusion, and scholar development. Ferguson was the youth development coordinator from 2010-2022. Ferguson also worked as the Tri-Mentoring grant specialist in Federal Programs. Ferguson also served as vice president of Leadership Lincoln for five years and coordinator for Youth in Action Center from 1999-2004. Ferguson also worked as a case manager for Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Hastings College in communication arts and English.
These administrators will officially start their new roles on July 1, 2023.
Posted on February 15, 2023
Lincoln Standing Bear High School will open with freshmen and sophomores only
After reviewing enrollment numbers for the 2023-2024 school year, Lincoln Public Schools officials made the decision to open Lincoln Standing Bear High School next fall with only ninth- and tenth- grades. As of Friday, Feb. 10, there was a robust incoming ninth-grade class with 219 students enrolled, and an incoming 10th-grade class of 26 students enrolled.
“The good news is we are hearing that students and families know that they are getting a quality education where they currently attend high school and don’t want to leave as evident in the upper class numbers,” said Superintendent Paul Gausman. “We are proud to provide options for students to choose where they attend high school. This does, however, provide unique planning challenges as we open new buildings. Opening Standing Bear with freshmen and sophomores only allows us to focus our resources on offering high-quality opportunities and high school experiences where students are attending.”
As the graduating class of 2027 moves through high school, LPS anticipates Standing Bear will meet the designed 1,000 student capacity. In addition, Standing Bear will provide ninth- and tenth-grade students with an extraordinary leadership opportunity to establish a positive school culture.
“The number of students enrolled at Standing Bear will continue to grow each year as we’ve seen with Northwest High School,” added Gausman. “We opened Northwest this year just shy of 500 students in grades 9-11. Our numbers show that next year’s enrollment at Northwest will be closer to 800 students in grades 9-12.”
Future 11th- and 12th- grade students who chose Standing Bear for next fall will automatically be re-enrolled in their current high school, and their counselors will be contacting them. Students in those grades who optioned into Lincoln Public Schools from other school district will have the opportunity to attend one of the other LPS high schools. LPS Student Services will be contacting those families soon with more information.
All freshmen and sophomores at Standing Bear will still experience the pre-pathway classes for the Nebraska Business Focus Program. This will allow them to enroll in the focus program as juniors and seniors.
There will continue to be the opportunity for a wide range of activities and athletics at Standing Bear. The final determination of which opportunities and which levels offered will be determined based on the number, development and experience of the students that go out for athletics and activities. The intent is to be able to offer as many varsity level programs as possible. At this time, Standing Bear is planning to offer most individual sports and activities at the varsity level. Those include: golf, tennis, bowling, swimming and diving, cross country, track, wrestling and speech. One Act is also still planning on varsity competition. Standing Bear will plan to compete at the lower levels (freshmen, reserve, or junior varsity) for football, volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball and baseball. The athletic department will continue to monitor interest in athletics and activities.
If students entering ninth and tenth grades are still interested in attending Standing Bear High School next fall, they need to complete the High School Choice Form as soon as possible if they haven’t already to increase the likelihood that a full range of courses can be offered. Distance learning courses may be offered in some cases. Check out this online document for a complete list of courses currently offered for students at Standing Bear High School.
Posted on February 15, 2023
Highlights of the 2/14 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
The Lincoln Board of Education met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at the Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street. The full meeting video and a summary are below.
Special reports, presentations, and celebrations of success
Celebrations
During the meeting, the Board of Education recognized both Adams Elementary and Humann Elementary staff, students and families for being honored with the U.S. Department of Education 2022 National Blue Ribbon School Award.
First reading
Newly annexed property to the City of Lincoln
The Board of Education assigns school attendance areas to property newly annexed to the City of Lincoln. This action establishes school attendance areas prior to the sale of residential lots, allowing purchasers to know what schools their children will attend.
The proposal assigns the newly annexed area of Lincoln Logistics Hub to Norwood Park Elementary School, Dawes Middle School and Northeast High School.
The Board will hold a second reading and vote to approve the assigned areas at the next Board meeting.
Policy 5505 - Wellness
Lincoln Public Schools reviews policies on an ongoing basis and updates policies to ensure that they accurately reflect the ever-changing work of the district and changes in state and federal laws.
Every three years, the Board is required by law to review the wellness policy. Highlights of the changes include:
- A heading was changed from Nutrition to Essential Tier I Programs to better capture the supports all students receive.
- Work by Health Services was added to the policy along with Social and Emotional Learning as part of the wellness program.
- Language about access students have to drinking water was added to match current practice.
- More guidance was also added about “smart snack” rewards.
You can read the full policy changes here. The Board will hold a second reading and vote to approve the policy updates at the next meeting.
K-6 reading curriculum materials
LPS Director of Curriculum and Instruction Takako Olson and LPS K-6 English Language Arts Curriculum Specialist Lisa Oltman presented to the Board a recommended reading curriculum and materials.
The Amplify CKLA curriculum is being piloted in four LPS schools this year: Huntington, Lakeview, Robinson and Wysong elementary schools. This researched-based curriculum is a blended mix of print and digital resources that develops strong knowledge and reading comprehensive skills. The program is strongly aligned with Nebraska State English/Language Arts standards (adopted by the state in 2021) and is well-aligned to best practices in English/Language Arts education and the district's instructional framework. This curriculum was selected by a committee of teachers, administrators, and community members over the course of curriculum study for the last two years.
Staff recommend the purchase of CKLA and English Language Arts curriculum materials to be used in grades K-6 at Lincoln Public Schools beginning in 2023-2024.
The Board will hold a second reading and vote to approve the estimated bid of $7.7 million at the next meeting.
Ukrainian Refugee School Impact Grant application
A federal appropriation is being provided by the Office of Refugee Resettlement with specific appropriations to provide services to support citizens or nationals of Ukraine. Many newly arrived Ukrainian families have young children who will need additional supports to help with effective integration and education.
Lincoln Public School would like to apply for a grant to support a full-time bilingual liaison position dedicated to serving the needs of new Ukrainian arrivals to Lincoln. The primary focus of the bilingual liaison is educational support of new students and their parents as they navigate the U.S. education system, but also includes social and emotional support as well. The LPS proposal would also include support for school social worker time to partner with the new bilingual liaison to conduct a New Americans Social and Emotional Support series in schools where these students would be served.
The Board will hold a second reading on the application and vote at the next meeting.
Items removed from consent agenda
Agreement with strategic plan consultant
The Board removed from the consent agenda for discussion the agreement with District Management Group (DMG) to deliver strategic planning services for the school district.
The Strategic Planning Committee Chair Lanny Boswell said strategic plans are important because they guide budget and policy decisions.
“The best strategic plans build on the work of previous plans, and feature extensive engagement with internal and community stakeholders,” added Boswell. “Tonight, the Strategic Planning Committee consisting of Mrs. Danek, Dr. Rauner and myself, along with Dr. Gausman and the executive team, recommends approval of the contract with District Management Group.”
The proposed contract includes a revised timeline with three main phases:
- In phase one, DMG would analyze existing school district data from last year's superintendent search along with Dr. Gausman's transition study. They would also review existing LPS initiatives including the “All Means All Action Plan”.
- In phase two, DMG would work with the committee to develop a theory of action and a proposed strategic plan. LPS staff trained by DMG would then facilitate internal and community input sessions to gain feedback on the proposed plan.
- In phase three, the Board would use feedback gathered from the sessions to update the proposed strategic plan, goals and measurable objectives. A final plan would then be presented for board approval in the spring of 2024.
The Board voted to approve the contract with DMG for the amount of $190,000.
Informational items and reports
The Career Academy
Boswell also provided an update from the latest TCA joint board meeting. There were conversations on equipment replacement as the program is eight years old. TCA Director Josh Jones will identify needs before taking requests through the LPS budget process. Other funding will include donations from community partners and the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools. The remainder will be taken through the Southeast Community College budget process.
Superintendent update
LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman announced that after reviewing enrollment numbers for the 2023-2024 school year, a decision was made to open Standing Bear High School next fall with only ninth- and tenth- grades. Information was emailed early in the evening to those who have already enrolled at the new high school.
As of last Friday, there were 219 freshmen enrolled, and 26 sophomores. Opening Standing Bear with only freshmen and sophomores allows LPS to focus resources on offering high-quality opportunities and experiences.
“The good news is we are hearing that students and families know that they are getting a quality education where they currently attend high school and don’t want to leave as evident in the upper class numbers,” added Gausman. “We are proud to provide options for students to choose where they attend high school. This does, however, provide unique planning challenges as we open new buildings.”
The anticipated number of students enrolled at Standing Bear will continue to grow each year, just as it did with Northwest High School. LPS opened Northwest this year just shy of 500 students in grades 9-11. Current numbers show that next year’s enrollment at Northwest will be closer to 800 students in grades 9-12.
Future 11th- and 12th- grade students who chose Standing Bear for fall of 2023 will automatically be re-enrolled in their current high school. Students in those grades who optioned into Lincoln Public Schools from other school districts will have the opportunity to attend one of the other open LPS high schools.
At this time, Standing Bear is planning to offer most individual sports and activities at the varsity level. Standing Bear will plan to compete at the lower levels for most team sports.
Gausman also announced that five schools were recently awarded the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation grants. Instruments will be given to Belmont, Clinton and Hartley elementary schools, along with Goodrich and Park middle schools. The total gift amount is approximately $125,000.
Also announced was the Artist in Residence Program in collaboration with the Lincoln Arts Council and Nebraska Arts Council. Musician Daniel Martinez will be working in schools and performing.
Gausman wrapped up his report with a mention of the Young People’s Orchestra performance last week. It’s a partnership between the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra and Lincoln Public Schools for all fourth grade students.
Public comment
There were seven individuals that addressed the Board during public comment. You can watch the public comment agenda item in the full meeting video here.
Glimpses of LPS
We open every Board meeting with a video that highlights Lincoln Public Schools. Tuesday’s Glimpses featured students from both Adams and Humann elementary schools describing why their schools deserve the National Blue Ribbon Award. You can watch the Glimpses here.
Posted on February 14, 2023
Updated school safety information following incidents at Irving and Culler middle schools
I’m writing to provide you with updated information from Lincoln Public Schools and Lincoln Police following the news article about the individual who entered Irving Middle School on Jan. 23, and Culler Middle School on Feb. 9.
We understand how what the news reported can cause concerns. I want to assure you that the LPS Threat Assessment Team has been working collaboratively with the Lincoln Police during their ongoing investigation as new information emerges. Lincoln Police have confirmed that 20-year-old D’angelo Wells remains in the Lancaster County Detention Center following his arrest on Feb. 9 for trespassing at Culler Middle School. Lincoln Police and the LPS Threat Assessment Team have assured us there is not an active threat towards any schools, students or staff.
Here is a timeline of events that has come to light as a result of the ongoing investigation by Lincoln Police:
- On the morning of Jan. 23, Wells entered Irving Middle School twice, before being involved in a car accident. During conversations with both administrators and police officers, Wells indicates he is there to see his “cousin”. The School Resource Officer cites Wells for trespassing, Driving Under the Influence, negligent driving, no seatbelt and no insurance. Wells was taken to the hospital by ambulance. Officers searched both Wells and his vehicle and did not find any weapons. At this time there was no known connection between Wells and Irving Middle School students or staff.
- During the evening of Jan. 26, LPS Threat Assessment received information that an adult man was communicating with three Irving students via Snapchat prior to Jan. 23. One of the students reported a threat was made by the adult. There was a possibility that this adult man was the same individual that entered the school on Jan. 23 and had a social media acquaintance with a female Irving student. LPS Threat Assessment turned this information over to Lincoln Police to investigate.
- Overnight on Jan. 26 and early morning of Jan. 27, Lincoln Police identified the adult man communicating over Snapchat with Irving students as Wells. They made contact with Wells at his parents’ home and proceeded to interview him. Wells again claimed he was at Irving to see his “cousin” and nothing more. Wells did not have any weapons or known access to weapons in the home. Wells was instructed to stay away from schools and end online communications with students.
- During the day on Jan. 27, the Lincoln Police Department investigator assigned to the joint LPD and LPS Threat Assessment team interviewed Wells again through the threat assessment process and instructed him again to stay away from all schools and to stop all online communications with the students. Wells was also instructed to end any form of relationship with the female student. An investigation was ongoing into the nature of the relationship between Wells and the student.
- As the investigation continued, the Irving student who was communicating with Wells admitted to having conversations with him, but said they had stopped. The student told officers it was an online friendship that began through a family member.
- At Culler Middle School during arrival on Feb. 9, an adult attempted to enter the building with a student. Culler staff recognized the adult did not belong at Culler Middle School and removed him from the entrance. He ran from staff when questioned and Culler staff followed him as far as 54th and O streets before stopping pursuit. At the same time Lincoln Police were contacted. Through interviews of Culler staff and students, Lincoln Police were able to determine the adult was Wells and he was attempting to enter the school with the same female student that previously attended Irving.
- Later that morning on Feb. 9, police made contact and arrested Wells for stalking and trespassing at Culler Middle School.
- As of Feb. 14, Wells remains lodged at the Lancaster County Detention Center. An investigation continues into the nature of the relationship between Wells and the student, including online communications between the two.
We share this information with you so you can see the threat assessment process between Lincoln Police and Lincoln Public Schools. Through this process, new information is fully investigated as it emerges and shared with Lincoln Police or Lincoln Public Schools staff. We appreciate the continued collaboration with Lincoln Police to help ensure our students and staff have a safe learning environment.
School safety takes a community. If you have any information that is concerning - no matter how small you think it is - please contact Lincoln Police at (402)441-6000, LPS Security, or through the green Safe to Say button on the LPS website immediately.
Joe Wright
LPS Director of Security
Posted on February 14, 2023
Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - February 14, 2023
The Lincoln Board of Education will hold its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. located in the Boardroom at Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
Members of the public and media may access the meeting via live video streaming or by physically attending the meetings, which are subject to all national, state and local limitations on public gatherings associated with COVID-19. Overflow accommodations may need to be implemented to ensure the health and safety of all in attendance.
The agenda for all meetings can be found here: lps.org/board.
There are multiple ways to view the livestream of the regular meeting:
- Board webpage
- LPS YouTube Channel
- LNK TV Education Channel (Spectrum channel 1303, Allo channel 23, or LNKTV in the AppleTV and Roku app store)
Participation by citizens in the regular board meeting
The Board believes public attendance and participation, when appropriate to the business at hand, is beneficial to the work of the Board and models the importance of civic engagement and civil discourse to the community’s children, but it cannot impede the Board from completing the business of the meeting.
In keeping with Board Policy 8420 and Neb Statute 84-1412(3), the Lincoln Board of Education has established these reasonable regulations to conduct Public Comment:
- Persons speaking during Public Comment will be called forward individually by the Board Chair to the location identified for such purpose.
- A time limit of three minutes will be allotted for any speaker unless prior to the beginning of the Public Comment agenda item, the chair sets a different reasonable time frame to be allotted for speakers in order to accommodate the number of persons who have submitted "Record of Appearance" cards. The time limit is per speaker, per meeting and may not be transferred or assigned to other speakers.
- The chair may endeavor to organize public comment by what agenda items or other issues have been identified as topics by public speakers, adjust for the age of speakers, and/or split the Public Comment agenda item to be conducted in different positions within the Board’s Order of Business. At the discretion of the chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time. Board members may share, address or consider comments from the public during public comment, at the end of public comment or when related business is on the agenda.
- In order to be called forward to address the Board during Public Comment, each person wishing to speak must obtain a "Record of Appearance" card from staff at the meeting in which they wish to speak. "Record of Appearance" cards are available beginning 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the meeting. Those wishing to speak must accurately complete the required sections of the card, and submit it to the appropriate staff member by 15 minutes after the start of the meeting.
- Individuals will be called forward to speak by name, organization being represented, if applicable, and address. Each individual speaking to the Board will be required to identify himself or herself prior to giving public comment by stating their first and last name and, if applicable, any organization they represent.
- In cases where more than one person wishes to speak on the same topic, their presentations to the Board may, at the discretion of the chair, be grouped together by topic.
- If the number of people wishing to speak under the public comment portions of the agenda is large, the chair may rule that a public hearing be scheduled.
- Persons speaking to the Board during public comment may make printed materials (paper no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches) available to the Board but may not use any other form of media. Public speakers are asked to provide 10 copies of any copies of printed materials presented to the Board.
Persons attending Board meetings and/or speaking to the Board during Public Comment or during a public hearing must follow all requirements established by the Board, as well as all Board, chair and staff directions in order to help maintain the order, proper decorum, safety and security, and the non-disruptive functioning of the Board meeting. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Abiding by time limits;
- Refraining from applauding, cheering, jeering, or engaging in speech that defames any individual(s), or stymies or blocks meeting progress;
- Refraining from the use of audio recordings, video recordings, or any digital still images, posters, signs, costumes, other props and/or photographs;
- Refraining from abusive, disruptive or threatening language or gestures; and
- Staying in the areas identified by the Board as reserved for the public.
If at any time persons appearing before the Board do not comply with these or any other Board requirements, it shall be the responsibility of the chair to declare that person or persons out of order and require a change in behavior, delay or recess the meeting, or refuse permission to continue to address the Board, and ultimately may require the person or persons to leave the premises of the Board meeting.
Posted on February 10, 2023
LPS administrators announce retirement plans
Each year, school and district administrators who plan to retire at the end of the school year announce their intentions in February. Lincoln Public Schools congratulates the following LPS administrators on their upcoming retirements, effective June 30, 2023, and thank them for their years of dedicated service to our students and families.
School administrators
Mark Armstrong, athletic director at Southwest High School
Mark Armstrong served student-athletes at Southwest High School for 10 years as the athletic director. In his 37 years in education, Armstrong has been an athletic director in Nebraska for 28 years working at Kearney High School and Holdrege High School. Armstrong also taught for nine years at Bellevue West High School.
In 2020, Armstrong was honored with the prestigious Award of Merit by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators in recognition of outstanding leadership and personal commitment to the values of interscholastic athletics.
Wendy Badje, principal at Rousseau Elementary School
Wendy Badje started her educational career in Omaha in 1980. Throughout her 43-year career, she has been a third-grade teacher, a physical education teacher, a coordinator and principal. At LPS, Badje taught PE at Prescott Elementary School for approximately seven years before becoming a coordinator at Hill Elementary School for approximately four years. She then served as a coordinator at Kahoa for 13 years before being named the principal at Rousseau Elementary. Badje has been the principal at Rousseau for 11 years.
Kurt Glathar, principal at The Career Academy
Kurt Glathar began his education career at Beatrice High School as a teacher and coach in 1985. He served in administrator positions at various school districts from 1988 until 2004 when he joined LPS as the principal at Northeast High School until 2018. Glathar was then the principal of the Science Focus and the Arts and Humanities Focus programs for two years before being named the principal at TCA in 2020.
Laura Runge, principal at Yankee Hill Education Center
Laura Runge was named the Yankee Hill Education Center principal in 2021. Prior to that, she served as an associate principal at Southwest High School. Runge’s 33 years in education also included teaching special education from 1989 to 2012 in various schools, including Belmont Elementary School, Culler Middle School and Lincoln East High School. In addition, she served as assistant special education coordinator at Lincoln North Star High School from 2012 to 2013 and special education coordinator at Lefler Middle School from 2013 to 2018.
Kelly Schrad, principal at Goodrich Middle School
Kelly Schrad has served as the principal at Goodrich Middle School for the last 10 years. Her educational journey spans 38 years, all of them in LPS middle schools. Schrad began as a social studies teacher at Dawes Middle School before becoming an associate principal. She was also an associate principal at Pound for nine years before being named the principal at Lefler middle school in 2004.
District administrators
Leslie Eastman, director of ESU 18 Assessment and Evaluation
Leslie Eastman has served Lincoln Public Schools and ESU18 in Assessment and Evaluation since 1996. She was an assessment specialist until 2004 when Eastman was named to the director position. Prior to her work at LPS, Eastman was the director of assessment for the Kansas City Missouri School District, and an assistant professor in educational psychology for the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Linda Hix, director of Federal Programs
Linda Hix has served the students and families of LPS as the director of Federal Programs since 2014. She kicked off her education career at Wegner Middle School in Boys Town as a teacher and then a principal until 1995 when she moved to Waverly. There she served as an elementary principal until being named Pershing Elementary principal in 1998. Hix was the principal at Scott Middle School from 2002-2009 until she was selected to open Schoo Middle School located in the Fallbrook neighborhood in north Lincoln. After three years at Schoo, Hix moved into the supervisor of secondary personnel services position working in the LPS HR department before taking over the role in Federal Programs in 2014.
Posted on February 03, 2023

Standing Bear High School virtual info session
Lincoln Standing Bear High School held a virtual presentation followed by a Question and Answer session with staff on Thursday, Jan. 26, You can view that session below.
Standing Bear High School and the Nebraska Business Focus Program for students in grades 11 and 12 will open in the fall of 2023. If a student wants to attend Standing Bear High School they will need to fill out the High School Choice Form as soon as possible. The deadline is Jan. 31. Students who submit the form after Jan. 31, 2023, may be denied a transfer. Turning in the form early allows administrators to start planning for classes and staffing.
Go to our website for more information about all of the high school information nights.
Posted on January 30, 2023

Student News Desk: LSE social studies teacher has his own unique past to share
Lincoln Public Schools understands the importance of quality journalism to help inform our community and shine a light on the people, programs and events that make our school district unique. Student News Desk is our ongoing effort to promote excellence in journalism and public education by selecting a story written by student journalists from our high school publications classes to be featured on the Lincoln Public Schools homepage and social media. |
Written by: Maren Steinke and Abbey Hardin, Southeast High
“Go Knights!” If you’ve ever met Jesse Reynolds, you’ve probably seen his collection of cool Southeast shirts that display his Knight Pride. Reynolds has been teaching for four years at LSE, as well as one year as a substitute for LPS before that. He teaches Geography, World History and AP World History, but has also played his part in history as a member of the US Navy.
“I enlisted when I was 18 and got stationed in San Diego, California, for the first 12 years, Reynolds said. “I was on two ships and one tour of shore duty in that time. I went on four deployments (six months each) and a number of other visits to places like Acapulco, New Orleans, and San Francisco.”
Reynolds was stationed in many cities, but the most interesting place he went to was Naples, Italy, where he lived for three years. During his time in the Navy, Reynolds worked in communications and computer networks where he used devices such as satellites and radios.
The Navy greatly impacted Reynolds’ life, including his current career. He got orders to be a recruiter for the Navy in 2006 and was stationed in Norfolk, Nebraska. There, he was able to work within high schools talking about joining the military, and it was when he was working as a recruiter that Reynolds realized that, “I really liked working with high school students and if I combined my love of conducting training, the epiphany that hit me was that I should be a high school teacher after my time in the Navy.”
Not only did his time in the Navy impact what direction his current career went, but it also helped him to become a great teacher.
“I think that one of the biggest impacts that my Navy career has had on my teaching career is allowing me to keep calm when things don’t go as planned. I don’t get too worked up when things go sideways and it helps to stop chaos from happening in the classroom. Additionally, my experience in working with all sorts of people from all over the country helps me with my empathy and understanding [which helps] me remember that every high school student has their own culture, their viewpoint, and their own story.”
His student teacher, Hannah Olin, has also noticed that his students return Reynolds’ enthusiasm and caring attitude.
“He is a great teacher and values each and every student that comes into his classroom, and I believe they know it,” Olin said. “Students are always saying hi and fist-bumping him in the halls. It is easy to see that he is well-liked and respected.”
Teaching history was a perfect subject for Reynolds, who believes that understanding other people, cultures, and points of view is vital to be a good citizen and person. Reynolds also enjoys teaching because of the students.
“There are a bunch of reasons why I enjoy teaching but it really always boils down to one thing, working with students and getting to interact with so many different personalities and backgrounds. Any time I see a student that is enjoying an activity or having a “light bulb” moment where something clicks and they have a new understanding of the world around them, it is such a cool thing to see.”
Because of his love for his students and teaching, Reynolds was also a perfect fit to be the boy’s varsity bowling coach this year. Sports have always been a big part of his life, and he’s wanted to be a coach as long as he’s wanted to be a teacher.
So far, he loves it and has great confidence in his team.
“Working with students outside of the classroom is great and getting to see how talented they are and helping them to improve their game is awesome. Coaching is an extension of teaching that focuses on sports instead of textbooks so it’s a fun way to keep working with high school students. Plus who doesn’t enjoy bowling?”
Reynolds also has some good advice for students. “Not everything is a potential world-ending event. Not every assignment or every class that you take is going to define your life. Most of the things that we experience in high school are just chances to learn and develop something new about yourself, whether that is a project in one of your classes or the conflict that you have with a classmate.”
This is good advice for high schoolers because a lot of the time it can feel like school is taking over your life and having missing assignments and bad grades is the end of the world.
“Stay calm, put in actual effort, and enjoy the time that you have here at LSE because it will be over before you know it and hopefully when that happens you can look back and be proud of your time here.”
Check out this story and more at Southeast's online publication: https://lseclarion.com/
Posted on January 25, 2023
Highlights of the 1/24 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
The Lincoln Board of Education met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at the Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street. You can watch the full Board regular meeting video here.
Special reports, presentations, and celebrations of success
Staff Celebrations
During the meeting, the Board of Education recognized those staff members in attendance who have served at Lincoln Public Schools for 25 years. There was also a small reception prior to the meeting for staff.
First reading
Southwest High School Enhancement Project
The Board reviewed bids for a renovation project at Southwest High School as identified in Phase III of the 2020 Bond projects. Improvements will be made in Career and Technical Education spaces including family and consumer science classrooms, art and technical education.
The Board waived second reading and approved the lowest bid by Genesis Contracting Group for $1,024,000.
Culler Middle School Enhancement Project
The Board reviewed bids for a renovation project at Culler Middle School as identified in Phase III of the 2020 Bond projects. Improvements will be made in art and career and technical education spaces, restrooms, lighting, parking replacement and traffic flow.
The Board waived second reading and approved the lowest bid by Genesis Contracting Group for $1,298,700.
ARP Technology Grant for Early Services Coordination
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) was signed into law on March 11, 2021, offering COVID-19 related targeted IDEA Part C resources to address the challenges faced in ensuring early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Additional IDEA Part C funds were allocated to Nebraska’s Co-Lead agencies - Nebraska Department of Education and Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services - to assist in the continuation and provision of early intervention services. LPS was recently notified of additional funding.
Waived second reading and approved applying for the grant so staff could meet the grant submission deadline.
Second reading
2022-23 Mid-year appraisal of the Superintendent of Schools
Nebraska Law requires that new superintendents be evaluated twice in their first year. One of the most important responsibilities of the Lincoln Board of Education is the evaluation of the superintendent.
At this mid-year evaluation, the Lincoln Board of Education recognized and applauded Gausman’s work as the Superintendent of Schools. Comments from Board member in the summary included:
- “Paul is very open to discussion and debate on key topics.”
- “Daily Communications emails keep the board informed of events. Additionally, Dr. Gausman calls board members individually to keep us informed of the most important matters. This is working well.”
- “Paul has been good in coming prepared to meetings with background information and plans of action/opinions with that information. He also listens well and is willing to reconsider as he gains more knowledge.”
- “Dr. Gausman has exceeded all expectations when it comes to meeting with community leaders. I know more people he has met with than not! The feedback I am getting from these leaders is that he is very collaborative and willing to listen to all viewpoints.”
- “Dr. Gausman is progressing rapidly in familiarizing himself with LPS and the larger community. I have received many positive comments regarding Dr. Gausman’s community engagement.”
- “[Dr. Gausman’s] report was extremely thorough for a mid-year report. He has truly jumped in with both feet to learn how to be the Superintendent for LPS…. It will be interesting to see how his themes will develop for the April presentation.”
- “I appreciated Dr. Gausman’s approach to his mid-year report. As our district continues to deal with challenges, I believe Dr. Gausman has the experience, ideas, and energy to help LPS continue to improve outcomes for our children.”
- “Dr. Gausman has truly brought his leadership strengths of consideration, learning, and vision to LPS.”
- “Dr. Gausman’s personal and professional conduct has been appropriate and reflects well on the district.”
- “In his short time here, Paul has really taken seriously his role to visit, meet, and learn about all our various learning settings within LPS.”
- “At this mid-year review, I feel like Dr. Gausman is doing a fantastic job. He has surpassed all my expectations.”
The Board voted to approve the superintendent’s mid-year evaluation.
School Choice Filing Deadline January 31, 2023 - East High School, Lincoln High School, North Star High School and Southwest High School
Each year staff monitors enrollment trends and available capacity in schools to determine the impact on educational programs and the availability for students to transfer to a school outside their assignment area.
Each year, incoming ninth grade students can choose what high school they would like to enroll in, and must turn in their High School Choice Form by January 31.
Enrollments at East, North Star, Southwest and Lincoln High continue to exceed building capacity. Because of this, staff have determined and recommended that any additional transfer requests made after the Jan. 31 deadline not be accepted. These follow current high school enrollment procedures, and confirms past years’ practice.
The Board voted to uphold the deadline.
State 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant Continuation Application
The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CLCs) federally-funded grant program provides grants to eligible schools for the purpose of creating or expanding Community Learning Centers. The primary purpose of 21st Century funds is to provide students with academic enrichment opportunities designed to complement their regular academic program. All CLC services are provided during non-school hours or periods when school is not in session. The CLC’ programs and activities are designed to build on the capacity of community partners and neighborhood schools. Each site is to have an academic focus to assist participating students in meeting state and local academic achievement standards. Families of students served may also receive services in areas that support family literacy, health, other family support services, and childcare.
This 21st Century CLC grant application is a continuation of grant funding for the Everett, Lakeview, and Mickle CLC schools. The identified schools have specific needs which are in line with the goals of the 21st Century grant process and have successfully achieved stated outcomes in the continuation grant award.
The Board approved the submission of this federally-funded grant application to the Nebraska Department of Education. The total amount over a five-year period is projected to be $519,500. The 100% match requirement is met by the grant community partners. No financial match is needed from Lincoln Public Schools.
Informational items and reports
Wellness, American Civics, Multicultural Committee
Committee chair Annie Mumgaard gave a report from the last meeting. The committee reviewed policies 5505 and 8001 that address school health and safety policies and programs, and developing healthy habits.
Superintendent update
LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman announced to the Board during his update that Vann Price will now be the ongoing Associate Superintendent of Human Resources, dropping “interim” from her title.
“Dr. Price’s performance, without question, not only has exceeded my expectations, but those of my colleagues as well,” added Gausman. “She’s really demonstrated we’re making a solid transition in a department where we are providing a serious amount of focus and action right now.”
Gausman provided another transition reflection after touring LPS Special Education programs. He was able to see the new Individual Success Program at Northwest High School, and the Independence Academy sites at Meadow Lane Elementary School and the Lincoln Food Bank.
Gausman said the biggest point of learning for him while touring the programs with LPS Special Education Director Jenny Fundus was that not only were these students learning life skills, they were also working to become productive citizens in our community.
“I am convinced after what I saw today in our programs that what we offer is so much deeper than what I have seen in other districts where I have served,” said Gausman. “I was really impressed. They not only help our students live in the community, they also help our students become a part of our community. That sense of belonging matters. I’m really proud of our team in the Special Education department.”
Gausman wrapped up his update by thanking the Board of Education for their countless hours of volunteer service in serving the community, staff and students of Lincoln Public Schools during National Board of Education Appreciation Week.
“You are a strong group of student-first leaders. You hold high expectations for yourselves and each other. For all the guff you take from time to time, I’d like to remind our community that you do not get paid for your service, and you put in more hours than a lot of other elected officials. Our students continue to be blessed because of your service,” Gausman said.
Public comment
There were five individuals that addressed the Board during public comment. You can watch the public comment agenda item in the full meeting video here.
Glimpses of LPS
We open every Board meeting with a video that highlights Lincoln Public Schools. Tuesday’s Glimpses featured a new LPS Library Service Production” The Seat Beside you.
Posted on January 24, 2023
Highlights: 1/10 Lincoln Board of Education work session and regular meeting
The Lincoln Board of Education met for a special work session and regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10, at the Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street. The full videos and summaries are below.
Special work session
The purpose of the special work session was to hear proposals and interview strategic plan consultant firms. Two firms presented their proposals: District Management Group and Hanover Research.
- Watch the District Management Group presentation here.
- Watch the Hanover Research presentation here.
The Board met in closed session after the regular meeting to discuss the proposals. A firm will be selected and voted on at an upcoming regular meeting.
Regular meeting
Special reports, presentations, and celebrations of success
Staff Celebrations
Lincoln Public Schools staff perform exceptionally every day. Periodically, LPS staff are recognized at the state, regional or national level. It is important for the Board to recognize these high achievements to honor the staff members and for the community to be aware of these honors, so they can join in the celebration of the great staff that serves the students and families in the community.
Mindy Burbach, LPS Communications Director
Mindy Burbach, LPS Director of Communications, was honored with the Nebraska High School Press Association Friend of Journalism Award. The NHSPA’s Friend of Journalism award honors individuals from "professional media, high school administration, local Nebraska communities or Nebraska colleges who significantly supported scholastic journalism."
Sara Parkening, Pound Middle School French Language Teacher
Pound Middle School French Teacher Sara Parkening was honored as the 2022 Nebraska French Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska International Language Association (NILA) and the Nebraska Association of Teachers of French (NATF). The Nebraska International Languages Association is a professional organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the teaching of languages in the state of Nebraska. Anyone actively engaged in teaching a world language at any level of education in Nebraska is eligible for membership. The organization annually recognizes outstanding Nebraska educators and supporters of world language education at its fall conference.
Coral Su, North Star High School Chinese Language Teacher
North Star High School Teacher Coral Su was honored as the 2022 Chinese Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska International Language Association (NILA) and the Chinese Language Teachers of America - Nebraska Chapter (CLTA-NE). The Nebraska International Languages Association is a professional organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the teaching of languages in the state of Nebraska. Anyone who is actively engaged in teaching world language at any level of education in Nebraska is eligible for membership. The organization annually recognizes outstanding Nebraska educators and supporters of world language education at its fall conference.
First reading
2022-23 Mid-year appraisal of the Superintendent of Schools
Nebraska Law requires that new superintendents be evaluated twice in their first year. One of the most important responsibilities of the Lincoln Board of Education is the evaluation of the superintendent.
Board President Don Mayhew read a summary of the evaluation based on responses from Board members in written evaluation documents and meetings conducted with each individual board member near the end of last semester.
At this mid-year evaluation, the Lincoln Board of Education recognized and applauded Gausman’s work as the Superintendent of Schools. Comments from Board member in the summary included:
- “Paul is very open to discussion and debate on key topics.”
- “Daily Communications emails keep the board informed of events. Additionally, Dr. Gausman calls board members individually to keep us informed of the most important matters. This is working well.”
- “Paul has been good in coming prepared to meetings with background information and plans of action/opinions with that information. He also listens well and is willing to reconsider as he gains more knowledge.”
- “Dr. Gausman has exceeded all expectations when it comes to meeting with community leaders. I know more people he has met with than not! The feedback I am getting from these leaders is that he is very collaborative and willing to listen to all viewpoints.”
- “Dr. Gausman is progressing rapidly in familiarizing himself with LPS and the larger community. I have received many positive comments regarding Dr. Gausman’s community engagement.”
- “[Dr. Gausman’s] report was extremely thorough for a mid-year report. He has truly jumped in with both feet to learn how to be the Superintendent for LPS…. It will be interesting to see how his themes will develop for the April presentation.”
- “I appreciated Dr. Gausman’s approach to his mid-year report. As our district continues to deal with challenges, I believe Dr. Gausman has the experience, ideas, and energy to help LPS continue to improve outcomes for our children.”
- “Dr. Gausman has truly brought his leadership strengths of consideration, learning, and vision to LPS.”
- “Dr. Gausman’s personal and professional conduct has been appropriate and reflects well on the district.”
- “In his short time here, Paul has really taken seriously his role to visit, meet, and learn about all our various learning settings within LPS.”
- “At this mid-year review, I feel like Dr. Gausman is doing a fantastic job. He has surpassed all my expectations.”
School Choice Filing Deadline January 31, 2023 - East High School, Lincoln High School, North Star High School and Southwest High School
Each year staff monitors enrollment trends and available capacity in schools to determine the impact on educational programs and the availability for students to transfer to a school outside their assignment area.
Each year, incoming ninth grade students can choose what high school they would like to enroll in, and must turn in their High School Choice Form by January 31.
Enrollments at East, North Star, Southwest and Lincoln High continue to exceed building capacity. Because of this, staff have determined and recommended that any additional transfer requests made after the Jan. 31 deadline not be accepted. These follow current high school enrollment procedures, and confirms past years’ practice.
The Board will vote on renewing this proposal at its next meeting.
Mickle Middle School renovation project
Staff recommended the lowest bid for renovations at Mickle Middle School that will include expanding the cafeteria and multipurpose room. It would also include improvements to Career and Technical Education classrooms.
The Board waived second reading and voted to approve the bid from BIC Construction LLC for $2,662,000.
Southeast High School renovation project
Staff recommended the lowest bid for renovations at Southeast High School that will include modifying traffic flow off of Van Dorn Street and enhancements inside classroom spaces.
The Board waived second reading and voted to approve the bid from BIC Construction LLC for $3,126,900.
CLASS annual chromebook purchase (grades 6 and 9)
In 2013, the Board adopted the CLASS Technology Plan as a result of a two-year strategic planning process. After 10 years, the CLASS Technology Plan provides budget resources in the 2022-23 fiscal year to continue the practice of assigning a Chromebook to each 2023-24 sixth grade student (approximately 3,094) and ninth grade student (approximately 3,300) that they will use throughout their middle and high school years, respectively. The current estimated lead time for delivery of Chromebooks is four months, making a purchase at this time necessary to ensure delivery with enough time to prepare the Chromebooks prior to the start of the 2023-24 school year. Staff recommend the Acer C734 (8GB/32GB) as the best option for incoming middle school students at a bid of $931,294. The Dell 3110 2-in-1 as the best option for incoming high school students at a bid of $1,275,252.
The Board waived second reading and voted to approve the bids to allow the Chromebooks to be delivered in time for next school year.
Informational items and reports
Superintendent update
Gausman provided the Board with an update. He told the Board that work continues on the transition plan that will be presented in April.
He reminded the Board and the community that there are high school open houses going on over the next couple of weeks. Last week, LPS held its first ever event that featured all of the LPS Focus Programs in one place. There were approximately 400 students and families that attended the event.
Public comment
There were three individuals that addressed the Board during public comment. You can watch the public comment agenda item in the full meeting video here.
Glimpses of LPS
We open every Board meeting with a video that highlights Lincoln Public Schools. Tuesday’s Glimpses featured Therapy Dogs at work in Eastridge Elementary School.
Posted on January 24, 2023

LPS introduces Blake Simpson as Director of Employee Relations
Lincoln Public Schools introduces Blake Simpson as the new Director of Employee Relations for Lincoln Public Schools. Robbie Seybert, who previously held the director position, left LPS in November after he was named the Human Resource Manager for Lincoln Electric System (LES).
Simpson comes to LPS from the Nebraska Counsel for Discipline where he served as the assistant counsel for discipline. He also previously worked as an attorney for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services; was an adjunct professor at the University of Nebraska College of Law; an associate attorney for Endacott, Peetz, Timmer & Koerwitz, PC LLO; and an administrative director of institutional compliance for access, equity and diversity.
Simpson graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Law with a Juris Doctorate degree, and Nebraska Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Arts in History.
Posted on January 24, 2023

Historical Match Up: LPS hosts first citywide girls’ wrestling competition
East High School won the inaugural Lincoln Public Schools Girls Wrestling Showcase on Jan. 20 as 36 student-athletes made history competing in the first-ever tournament. LPS added the sport to its winter athletics lineup during the 2022 - 2023 school year. All seven LPS high schools and Lincoln Pius X competed in the citywide tournament.
“It was really fun just to try. You’ve got to have confidence. You can’t halfway do it. You will have to go into it and fight,” said Thalia Rivera, a sophomore who wrestles for the Southeast High School Knights.
The Nebraska School Activities Association started offering girls’ wrestling as a sanctioned sport in 2021. Before that, girls joined boys’ teams and competed against them. Now, all LPS seven high schools have girls’ teams. Grace Frahm is a wrestler from East high school. This season, her school has the most girls competing in the sport.
“It’s known as a guy's sport and I think it's cool girls are showing up saying ‘we can do it too.’ I think that’s really cool and important,” Frahm said.
“I 100% wish girls wrestling was an option when I was a teen,” Southeast assistant coach Kim Hall said.
Hall is among the group of women who are helping coach teams at LPS. The trailblazer who wrestled in elementary school was introduced to the sport as a kid by her dad who was a head coach for more than 30 years. Now, she’s grateful to build relationships with her athletes and foster an appreciation of the sport for the next generation of young female wrestlers.
“It’s a sport near and dear to my heart and I hope I'm able to share my love of the sport with them,” Hall added.
Girls’ wrestling has grown over the years. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, there were 8,727 athletes in girls’ wrestling in 2013. The association reported more than 21,000 girls competing in 2019, which is greater than double the number six years prior. It’s a trend LPS hopes continues – creating more opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities.
“This is an exciting moment at Lincoln Public Schools,” said LPS Athletics and Activities Director J.J. Toczek. “My hope for the future of girls’ wrestling, and really all of our athletic and activity programs, is to continue to create inclusive and collaborative environments of engagement and learning. Student participation in school athletics and activities supports academic progress and promotes physical, social, emotional, and character development while creating a sense of community in a global society.”
You can view all the tournament photos and download your favorites from our special gallery.
Tournament results
100
1st Place - Mileena Notaro of Lincoln East Girls
2nd Place - Basmala Sheruza of Lincoln High Girls
3rd Place - Michelle Li of Lincoln East Girls
Round 1
Basmala Sheruza (Lincoln High Girls) 3-3, Jr. over Michelle Li (Lincoln East Girls) 1-13, So. (Fall 0:38)
Round 2
Mileena Notaro (Lincoln East Girls) 19-0, So. over Michelle Li (Lincoln East Girls) 1-13, So. (Fall 0:10)
Round 3
Mileena Notaro (Lincoln East Girls) 19-0, So. over Basmala Sheruza (Lincoln High Girls) 3-3, Jr. (Fall 0:17)
105
1st Place - Taylor Siefken of Lincoln Southwest Girls
2nd Place - Lilli Walahoski of Lincoln Northwest Girls
3rd Place - Thalia Rivera of Lincoln Southeast Girls
4th Place - Mari Cortez-Goitia of Lincoln High Girls
Round 1
Taylor Siefken (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 18-4, Fr. over Mari Cortez-Goitia (Lincoln High Girls) 1-7, So. (Fall 3:37)
Lilli Walahoski (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 8-11, Fr. over Thalia Rivera (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 6-13, So. (Fall 0:57)
Round 2
Taylor Siefken (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 18-4, Fr. over Thalia Rivera (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 6-13, So. (Fall 0:30)
Lilli Walahoski (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 8-11, Fr. over Mari Cortez-Goitia (Lincoln High Girls) 1-7, So. (Fall 3:34)
Round 3
Taylor Siefken (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 18-4, Fr. over Lilli Walahoski (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 8-11, Fr. (Fall 1:48)
Thalia Rivera (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 6-13, So. over Mari Cortez-Goitia (Lincoln High Girls) 1-7, So. (Fall 1:16)
110
1st Place - Lesli Guerra-Avalos of Lincoln High Girls
2nd Place - Libby Kotik of Lincoln East Girls
3rd Place - Aspen Wolsleger of Lincoln Pius X Girls
Round 1
Libby Kotik (Lincoln East Girls) 2-12, Jr. over Aspen Wolsleger (Lincoln Pius X Girls) 0-2, So. (Fall 5:07)
Round 2
Lesli Guerra-Avalos (Lincoln High Girls) 17-7, So. over Aspen Wolsleger (Lincoln Pius X Girls) 0-2, So. (Fall 0:18)
Round 3
Lesli Guerra-Avalos (Lincoln High Girls) 17-7, So. over Libby Kotik (Lincoln East Girls) 2-12, Jr. (Fall 3:36)
115
1st Place - Deja Judd of Lincoln North Star Girls
2nd Place - Maia Ruben of Lincoln Southeast Girls
3rd Place - Bayan Sheruza of Lincoln High Girls
Round 1
Deja Judd (Lincoln North Star Girls) 3-15, Fr. over Maia Ruben (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 6-20, Fr. (Fall 3:30)
Round 2
Deja Judd (Lincoln North Star Girls) 3-15, Fr. over Bayan Sheruza (Lincoln High Girls) 4-11, Jr. (Dec 10-9)
Round 3
Maia Ruben (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 6-20, Fr. over Bayan Sheruza (Lincoln High Girls) 4-11, Jr. (Dec 7-3)
120
1st Place - Morgan Sindel of Lincoln East Girls
2nd Place - Campbell Colborn of Lincoln Southeast Girls
3rd Place - Grace Frahm of Lincoln East Girls
4th Place - Rachel Feldhaus of Lincoln Pius X Girls
Round 1
Morgan Sindel (Lincoln East Girls) 18-9, Sr. over Campbell Colborn (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 3-18, So. (Fall 1:11)
Grace Frahm (Lincoln East Girls) 8-9, So. over Rachel Feldhaus (Lincoln Pius X Girls) 5-5, So. (Fall 2:42)
Round 2
Morgan Sindel (Lincoln East Girls) 18-9, Sr. over Grace Frahm (Lincoln East Girls) 8-9, So. (Fall 1:36)
Rachel Feldhaus (Lincoln Pius X Girls) 5-5, So. over Campbell Colborn (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 3-18, So. (Dec 12-5)
Round 3
Morgan Sindel (Lincoln East Girls) 18-9, Sr. over Rachel Feldhaus (Lincoln Pius X Girls) 5-5, So. (Fall 0:37)
Campbell Colborn (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 3-18, So. over Grace Frahm (Lincoln East Girls) 8-9, So. (Fall 5:50)
125
1st Place - Mariposa Thonen of Lincoln East Girls
2nd Place - Sydney Chubbuck of Lincoln North Star Girls
3rd Place - Nataly Miller of Lincoln Southwest Girls
Round 1
Mariposa Thonen (Lincoln East Girls) 2-4, Fr. over Nataly Miller (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 6-10, Sr. (Fall 0:16)
Round 2
Sydney Chubbuck (Lincoln North Star Girls) 12-7, Jr. over Mariposa Thonen (Lincoln East Girls) 2-4, Fr. (Fall 0:49)
Round 3
Nataly Miller (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 6-10, Sr. over Sydney Chubbuck (Lincoln North Star Girls) 12-7, Jr. (Fall 2:22)
130
1st Place - Savanna Wright-Brase of Lincoln Southwest Girls
2nd Place - Charlee Taylor of Lincoln Northwest Girls
Round 1
Savanna Wright-Brase (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 7-17, So. over Charlee Taylor (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 8-13, Jr. (Fall 3:07)
Round 2
Savanna Wright-Brase (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 7-17, So. over Charlee Taylor (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 8-13, Jr. (Fall 1:26)
135
1st Place - Katelyn Ruttledge of Lincoln Southeast Girls
2nd Place - Abby Moorehead of Lincoln East Girls
Round 1
Katelyn Ruttledge (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 19-6, Sr. over Abby Moorehead (Lincoln East Girls) 3-13, Fr. (Fall 1:11)
Round 2
Katelyn Ruttledge (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 19-6, Sr. over Abby Moorehead (Lincoln East Girls) 3-13, Fr. (MD 15-2)
140
1st Place - Jazleen Alvarez of Lincoln High Girls
2nd Place - CadiJohn Rivera of Lincoln Northwest Girls
Round 1
Jazleen Alvarez (Lincoln High Girls) 14-5, Fr. over CadiJohn Rivera (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 11-8, Jr. (Fall 0:26)
Round 2
Jazleen Alvarez (Lincoln High Girls) 14-5, Fr. over CadiJohn Rivera (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 11-8, Jr. (Inj. 2:15)
145
1st Place - Raye Aldag of Lincoln Southeast Girls
2nd Place - Averyle Haase of Lincoln North Star Girls
Round 1
Raye Aldag (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 10-6, Fr. over Averyle Haase (Lincoln North Star Girls) 0-7, Fr. (Fall 1:40)
Round 2
Raye Aldag (Lincoln Southeast Girls) 10-6, Fr. over Averyle Haase (Lincoln North Star Girls) 0-7, Fr. (Fall 1:36)
155
1st Place - Feryal Akpo-Idrissou of Lincoln Northwest Girls
2nd Place - Mekinzie Martin of Lincoln East Girls
Round 1
Feryal Akpo-Idrissou (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 19-5, Jr. over Mekinzie Martin (Lincoln East Girls) 7-7, Sr. (MD 14-0)
Round 2
Feryal Akpo-Idrissou (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 19-5, Jr. over Mekinzie Martin (Lincoln East Girls) 7-7, Sr. (Fall 5:24)
170
1st Place - Azariah Valenzuela of Lincoln North Star Girls
2nd Place - Carson Shank of Lincoln East Girls
3rd Place - Ivy Theewen of Lincoln Southwest Girls
Round 1
Azariah Valenzuela (Lincoln North Star Girls) 10-9, Sr. over Ivy Theewen (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 1-8, Fr. (Fall 1:25)
Round 2
Carson Shank (Lincoln East Girls) 15-11, So. over Ivy Theewen (Lincoln Southwest Girls) 1-8, Fr. (Fall 0:29)
Round 3
Azariah Valenzuela (Lincoln North Star Girls) 10-9, Sr. over Carson Shank (Lincoln East Girls) 15-11, So. (Fall 1:23)
190
1st Place - Ra`Kyah Bass of Lincoln Northeast Girls
2nd Place - Amariah Roberts of Lincoln Northwest Girls
3rd Place - Alexa Bailey of Lincoln East Girls
Round 1
Amariah Roberts (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 6-10, Jr. over Alexa Bailey (Lincoln East Girls) 0-4, So. (Fall 0:13)
Round 2
Ra`Kyah Bass (Lincoln Northeast Girls) 9-4, Fr. over Alexa Bailey (Lincoln East Girls) 0-4, So. (Fall 0:35)
Round 3
Ra`Kyah Bass (Lincoln Northeast Girls) 9-4, Fr. over Amariah Roberts (Lincoln Northwest Girls) 6-10, Jr. (Fall 0:20)
Posted on January 23, 2023
Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - January 24, 2022
The Lincoln Board of Education will hold its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 6:00 p.m. located in the Boardroom at Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
Members of the public and media may access the meeting via live video streaming or by physically attending the meetings, which are subject to all national, state and local limitations on public gatherings associated with COVID-19. Overflow accommodations may need to be implemented to ensure the health and safety of all in attendance.
The agenda for all meetings can be found here: lps.org/board.
There are multiple ways to view the livestream of the regular meeting:
- Board webpage
- LPS YouTube Channel
- LNK TV Education Channel (Spectrum channel 1303, Allo channel 23, or LNKTV in the AppleTV and Roku app store)
Participation by citizens in the regular board meeting
The Board believes public attendance and participation, when appropriate to the business at hand, is beneficial to the work of the Board and models the importance of civic engagement and civil discourse to the community’s children, but it cannot impede the Board from completing the business of the meeting.
In keeping with Board Policy 8420 and Neb Statute 84-1412(3), the Lincoln Board of Education has established these reasonable regulations to conduct Public Comment:
- Persons speaking during Public Comment will be called forward individually by the Board Chair to the location identified for such purpose.
- A time limit of three minutes will be allotted for any speaker unless prior to the beginning of the Public Comment agenda item, the chair sets a different reasonable time frame to be allotted for speakers in order to accommodate the number of persons who have submitted "Record of Appearance" cards. The time limit is per speaker, per meeting and may not be transferred or assigned to other speakers.
- The chair may endeavor to organize public comment by what agenda items or other issues have been identified as topics by public speakers, adjust for the age of speakers, and/or split the Public Comment agenda item to be conducted in different positions within the Board’s Order of Business. At the discretion of the chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time. Board members may share, address or consider comments from the public during public comment, at the end of public comment or when related business is on the agenda.
- In order to be called forward to address the Board during Public Comment, each person wishing to speak must obtain a "Record of Appearance" card from staff at the meeting in which they wish to speak. "Record of Appearance" cards are available beginning 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the meeting. Those wishing to speak must accurately complete the required sections of the card, and submit it to the appropriate staff member by 15 minutes after the start of the meeting.
- Individuals will be called forward to speak by name, organization being represented, if applicable, and address. Each individual speaking to the Board will be required to identify himself or herself prior to giving public comment by stating their first and last name and, if applicable, any organization they represent.
- In cases where more than one person wishes to speak on the same topic, their presentations to the Board may, at the discretion of the chair, be grouped together by topic.
- If the number of people wishing to speak under the public comment portions of the agenda is large, the chair may rule that a public hearing be scheduled.
- Persons speaking to the Board during public comment may make printed materials (paper no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches) available to the Board but may not use any other form of media. Public speakers are asked to provide 10 copies of any copies of printed materials presented to the Board.
Persons attending Board meetings and/or speaking to the Board during Public Comment or during a public hearing must follow all requirements established by the Board, as well as all Board, chair and staff directions in order to help maintain the order, proper decorum, safety and security, and the non-disruptive functioning of the Board meeting. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Abiding by time limits;
- Refraining from applauding, cheering, jeering, or engaging in speech that defames any individual(s), or stymies or blocks meeting progress;
- Refraining from the use of audio recordings, video recordings, or any digital still images, posters, signs, costumes, other props and/or photographs;
- Refraining from abusive, disruptive or threatening language or gestures; and
- Staying in the areas identified by the Board as reserved for the public.
If at any time persons appearing before the Board do not comply with these or any other Board requirements, it shall be the responsibility of the chair to declare that person or persons out of order and require a change in behavior, delay or recess the meeting, or refuse permission to continue to address the Board, and ultimately may require the person or persons to leave the premises of the Board meeting.
Posted on January 20, 2023
Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education work session and regular meeting - January 10, 2022
On Tuesday, Jan. 10, the Lincoln Board of Education will hold a special work session starting at 4 p.m., and its regular business meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Boardroom at Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
The purpose of the work session is to hear proposals and interview strategic plan consultant firms. The work session is open to the public, or can be watched via livestream on the LPS webpage, or on the LPS YouTube Channel.
Members of the public and media may access the meeting via live video streaming or by physically attending the meetings, which are subject to all national, state and local limitations on public gatherings associated with COVID-19. Overflow accommodations may need to be implemented to ensure the health and safety of all in attendance.
The agenda for all meetings can be found here: lps.org/board.
There are multiple ways to view the livestream of the regular meeting:
- Board webpage
- LPS YouTube Channel
- LNK TV Education Channel (Spectrum channel 1303, Allo channel 23, or LNKTV in the AppleTV and Roku app store)
Participation by citizens in the regular board meeting
The Board believes public attendance and participation, when appropriate to the business at hand, is beneficial to the work of the Board and models the importance of civic engagement and civil discourse to the community’s children, but it cannot impede the Board from completing the business of the meeting.
In keeping with Board Policy 8420 and Neb Statute 84-1412(3), the Lincoln Board of Education has established these reasonable regulations to conduct Public Comment:
- Persons speaking during Public Comment will be called forward individually by the Board Chair to the location identified for such purpose.
- A time limit of three minutes will be allotted for any speaker unless prior to the beginning of the Public Comment agenda item, the chair sets a different reasonable time frame to be allotted for speakers in order to accommodate the number of persons who have submitted "Record of Appearance" cards. The time limit is per speaker, per meeting and may not be transferred or assigned to other speakers.
- The chair may endeavor to organize public comment by what agenda items or other issues have been identified as topics by public speakers, adjust for the age of speakers, and/or split the Public Comment agenda item to be conducted in different positions within the Board’s Order of Business. At the discretion of the chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time. Board members may share, address or consider comments from the public during public comment, at the end of public comment or when related business is on the agenda.
- In order to be called forward to address the Board during Public Comment, each person wishing to speak must obtain a "Record of Appearance" card from staff at the meeting in which they wish to speak. "Record of Appearance" cards are available beginning 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the meeting. Those wishing to speak must accurately complete the required sections of the card, and submit it to the appropriate staff member by 15 minutes after the start of the meeting.
- Individuals will be called forward to speak by name, organization being represented, if applicable, and address. Each individual speaking to the Board will be required to identify himself or herself prior to giving public comment by stating their first and last name and, if applicable, any organization they represent.
- In cases where more than one person wishes to speak on the same topic, their presentations to the Board may, at the discretion of the chair, be grouped together by topic.
- If the number of people wishing to speak under the public comment portions of the agenda is large, the chair may rule that a public hearing be scheduled.
- Persons speaking to the Board during public comment may make printed materials (paper no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches) available to the Board but may not use any other form of media. Public speakers are asked to provide 10 copies of any copies of printed materials presented to the Board.
Persons attending Board meetings and/or speaking to the Board during Public Comment or during a public hearing must follow all requirements established by the Board, as well as all Board, chair and staff directions in order to help maintain the order, proper decorum, safety and security, and the non-disruptive functioning of the Board meeting. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Abiding by time limits;
- Refraining from applauding, cheering, jeering, or engaging in speech that defames any individual(s), or stymies or blocks meeting progress;
- Refraining from the use of audio recordings, video recordings, or any digital still images, posters, signs, costumes, other props and/or photographs;
- Refraining from abusive, disruptive or threatening language or gestures; and
- Staying in the areas identified by the Board as reserved for the public.
If at any time persons appearing before the Board do not comply with these or any other Board requirements, it shall be the responsibility of the chair to declare that person or persons out of order and require a change in behavior, delay or recess the meeting, or refuse permission to continue to address the Board, and ultimately may require the person or persons to leave the premises of the Board meeting.
Posted on January 06, 2023

Enrollment for Standing Bear High School now open
Standing Bear High School is now accepting High School Choice Forms for any students currently in grades 8-11 who are interested in attending Lincoln’s newest high school next fall. Lincoln Public Schools allows every high school student the opportunity to choose which high school they want to attend as they enter their freshman year. Because Standing Bear High School opens next fall, every student entering grades 9-12 in the Fall of 2023 will have an opportunity to attend the new high school.
The high school will also be home to Nebraska Business Focus Program for students in grades 11 and 12.
If a student wants to attend Standing Bear High School, they will need to fill out the High School Choice Form as soon as possible. Students who submit the form after January 31, 2023, may be denied a transfer. Turning in the form early allows administrators to start planning for classes and staffing.
Students and families are invited to learn about Lincoln’s newest high school and focus program during the informational night on Thursday, Jan. 19, at 6:30 p.m., at Moore Middle School. Staff will be on hand to answer any questions families may have about classes, activities and the focus program.
There will be a Standing Bear Booster Club informational meeting for any family who may have a student attending Standing Bear High School. This meeting will lay the groundwork for organizing the Booster Club and getting the support organization started. The meeting will be held at Moore Middle School on Monday, Jan. 9, at 6 p.m.
If a student in grades 10–12 is interested in participating in athletics and activities, they will also need to notify the Standing Bear Athletic Director by May 1, 2023 of their intent to transfer. Failure to contact the Standing Bear AD by the deadline may jeopardize a student’s eligibility to participate in varsity activities during the 2022-23 school year.
Varsity offerings in athletics and activities will be determined after staff have gathered information on student interest and enrollment. It is important that high school students indicate their interest in Standing Bear High School prior to the January 31 deadline to help make this determination sooner.
Standing Bear High School in collaboration with Lincoln Public Schools has made the decision to open the 2023-2024 athletic season without a varsity football team. There will still be a full schedule for junior varsity, reserve and freshmen teams in football. The early announcement comes so families can make their decision about switching schools prior to the January 31 decision deadline.
More information about all of the LPS high school information nights, along with the High School Choice Form can be found on the website: https://home.lps.org/prepare.
Posted on December 29, 2022

LPS announces interim athletic director for Northwest High School
Lincoln Public Schools Athletic Department announced on Wednesday that Christina Nevitt will serve as interim athletics and activities director for Northwest High School for the remainder of the school year effective immediately. Current Northwest athletics and activities director Rob Psencik resigned at the end of the first semester to pursue an opportunity outside of Nebraska.
Nevitt has taught journalism at North Star High School since 2007, has been an activities coach, and has assisted the athletic department in various capacities during her time at North Star. Nevitt has also served as the NSAA Student Advisory Committee (SAC) advisor since 2015. The SAC works closely with student leaders and other advisors from across Nebraska on issues affecting student athletes and activities participants. In addition, Nevitt advises the student newspaper and yearbook staff at North Star.
Posted on December 28, 2022

The Seat Beside You: Tommy’s Light
“Day by day, year by year, I understood that I was a special mom. Why? Because I needed to have a special child to be able to understand all the children of the world,” said Leonor Alvarez Santos about her son, Tommy Juarez Alvarez.
Tommy is a student at the Lincoln Public Schools Independence Academy and he brings his light and kindness to Lincoln in more ways than one. Through a collaboration with the Lincoln Children’s Zoo and Lincoln Electric System, students at the Independence Academy help set up light displays for the annual ‘Zoo Lights’ event.
“It’s not just a transition from school to life, but it’s working towards those independent skills that students can use when they are in the community,” says Megan Britton, a teacher at the Independence Academy and Tommy’s teacher.
Like many activities at the Independence Academy, setting up for Zoo Lights allows students to work on skills from behavior to fine motor. An added benefit is when students can bring their families to see all the lights at the Children’s Zoo.
“When we went to the zoo to see the lights, we thought, ‘Wow!’” said Leonor.
“Once he started going to the Academy, he communicated more. He is able to express his feelings. Now he tells us jokes and what he did in school or what he talked about with a teacher,” according to Tommy’s father, Tommy Alvarez.
When Tommy and Leonor were setting up the family Christmas tree at home, Tommy’s confidence was on display. He told Leonor, “Mommy, I can do it. I can help you put up the tree. I did it at the zoo.”
“The Seat Beside You” is a video-series with the premise that behind every student at LPS, there’s a story…there’s a whole world. With a better understanding of the person in the seat beside you, the stronger our schools and community become. More “ The Seat Beside You” videos are coming soon!
Posted on December 23, 2022
LPS announces school closure Wednesday, district closure Thursday
Due to the Winter Weather Warning for Wednesday and Thursday issued by the National Weather Service, Lincoln Public Schools announced a School Closure Day for Wednesday, Dec. 21, and a District Closure Day for Thursday, Dec. 22.
“This is not an easy decision for us to make so far out, but all of the forecasts and information from experts suggests the timing of this storm will impact our students and staff as they leave school on Wednesday,” said LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman. “We know that school closures can cause hardships for families and our community. We have to consider the forecasted timing of the winter storm in combination with all of the hazardous winter weather conditions our staff, students and families could encounter across the approximately 100 square miles our school district spans.”
The School Closure Day on Wednesday means all classes and activities are canceled. The District Closure Day on Thursday means that all LPS buildings will be closed, in addition to all classes and activities being canceled.
More information will be sent tomorrow (Wednesday) to high school students and families about plans for first semester finals.
Please visit the LPS website for more information about our school closing procedures: https://home.lps.org/closings/.
LPS appreciates the flexibility, patience and understanding from families and our community as the school district continues to navigate Nebraska winters.
Posted on December 20, 2022
LPS continues to monitor weather forecasts for week, adjusts finals schedules
Weather in Nebraska is unpredictable and can change in an instant. There are times when the weather forecasts do not materialize. For this reason, Lincoln Public Schools will continue to monitor the weather forecasts this week and will follow our protocols for announcing any changes to the school schedule. You can find those protocols on our website: https://home.lps.org/closings/.
As a reminder, IF a decision to close the schools on Thursday is made on Wednesday, LPS will initiate calls to ensure notification of families by approximately 10:00 p.m. If the school closing decision is made early on Thursday morning, phone calls to homes will begin as early as 5:45 a.m. Thursday. The community can also check our website (lps.org) for the latest information.
LPS knows that school closures can cause hardships for families, and for that reason LPS tries to remain open during inclement weather whenever possible. LPS believes one of the safest places for students is in school buildings. Parents and families, however, may decide to keep their children home during inclement weather even if schools have not been closed by the superintendent. Families will need to communicate their child’s absence to the school and students are responsible for making up any missing assignments or work.
To help ensure a successful completion of the first semester before Winter Break, LPS has asked high school administrators to make adjustments to the finals week schedule in the event the forecast actually develops on Thursday. High School principals will be communicating the adjustments to families Monday afternoon. Thursday will be used as an opportunity for high school students to come in and work with teachers and catch up on missing work.
Middle school and elementary school principals will also work with teachers to adjust their end of semester final tests and project due dates to ensure students are able to complete the first semester successfully.
LPS appreciates the flexibility, patience and understanding from families as the school district continues to navigate Nebraska winters.
Posted on December 19, 2022

Roper students get a sneak peek 'Backstage at the Ballet'
Each year, one Lincoln Public Schools elementary school is chosen to participate in Backstage at the Ballet, an educational outreach program through the Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company. This year, the ballet company visited Roper Elementary School Dec. 6-8. Students rotated through three stations - choreography, makeup and costuming - during specials time. The event culminated in an abbreviated performance of the "Nutcracker Ballet" on Monday, Dec. 12 in the Roper gym. The performance included several Roper students, who performed part of a dance they learned during their choreography workshop.
“The kids have loved this week,” said Shari True, artistic director for the Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company. “We’ve had so much fun, especially in the choreography lessons. They’ve really gotten to try new skills that some of them didn’t even think they could do.”
“The choreography station is my favorite because I really like to dance,” said Estelle, Roper Elementary fifth grade student.
Classmate Judah chimed in, “My brother really enjoyed it yesterday and he made me do the whole entire dance for like an hour and a half last night.”
The Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company’s Backstage at the Ballet program has been inspiring elementary students in Lincoln for more than 33 years.
“I got to learn something new every single day of this week, and I’m just really lucky to have this opportunity at my school,” added Estelle.
Posted on December 14, 2022
Highlights: 12/13 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
The Lincoln Board of Education met for a regular meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at the Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
Special reports, presentations, and celebrations of success
Staff Celebrations
Kenny Cope, Fredstrom Elementary School
Fredstrom Elementary School Physical Education teacher Kenny Cope was named the 2022 Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE Nebraska). SHAPE Nebraska is a state affiliate of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance. SHAPE’s mission is to promote healthy lifestyles through leadership, professional development, and advocacy in the areas of health, physical education, recreation, and dance. Every year, the organization recognizes high school, middle school, and elementary educators for exemplary leadership and programming.
Janine Marker, Fredstrom Elementary School
Janine Marker served as a preschool paraeducator at Fredstrom Elementary School prior to becoming the school’s registrar. Recently, Janine was named the 2022 Nebraska Preschool Paraeducator of the Year by the Nebraska Department of Education.
Library Services report
LPS Director of Library Services Chris Haeffner gave an update to the Board about how materials are selected and reconsidered in school libraries.
Lincoln Board of Education policy delegates to the superintendent or a district administrator the authority and responsibility for selection of library materials. Responsibility for actual selection of materials rests with the certified school librarian using the Board of Education’s adopted selection criteria and procedures. School librarians earn over 30 hours of graduate-level coursework to become certified.
School librarians tailor their library collections in order to meet the specific needs and interests of their unique school community. The selection of materials is a process where the librarian seeks out items which provide a diversity of points of view and subject matter to support the educational mission of Lincoln Public Schools.
Haffner told the Board, “Not every student, caregiver, or citizen of our community will agree with all of the perspectives or content in every book in the LPS library collection. This is precisely one of the purposes of a library – to be a resource of many ideas for intellectual inquiry, consideration, and the development of critical thinking skills.”
Parents and guardians may always request that a specific print title be restricted from their own child. A parent or guardian can also request that their child’s access to electronic books to be limited. There is also an established process in which parents and community members may request the reconsideration of materials available in a school library. This process and information is available on the LPS website: https://home.lps.org/libraries.
First reading
The Board waived second reading and voted to approve all of the agenda items on first reading since there is not a second Board meeting in December.
Schoo addition and renovation project
The Schoo Middle School addition will add physical education space to the school as identified in the 10-year Facility Plan. Board voted to approve the lowest bid from Cheever Construction Company for a total of $1,702,000.
Lincoln High windows and installation in the annex
This is part of converting the south Annex building at Lincoln High School to geothermal, and uses ESSER funding. Board voted to approve the lowest bid from Pella Window and Door for $575,297.22.
HVAC for Lincoln High annex project
This is part of converting the south Annex building at Lincoln High School to geothermal, and uses ESSER funding. Board voted to approve the lowest bid from Trane U.S. Inc. for $534,283.
77th Street and Saltillo infrastructure project
This project will improve the roads and infrastructure around the new Standing Bear High School in agreement with the City of Lincoln. Board voted to approve the lowest bid from Constructors Inc. for $1,322,705.
Second reading
Newly annexed property to the City of Lincoln
The Board of Education assigns school attendance areas to property newly annexed to the City of Lincoln. This action establishes school attendance areas prior to the sale of residential lots, allowing purchasers to know what schools their children will attend.
The proposal assigns the newly annexed area of Stevens Creek Villas 1st Addition to Robinson Elementary School, Mickle Middle School and Northeast High School. The second proposal assigns the newly annexed area of Thorn addition to Maxey Elementary School, Lux Middle School and East High School.
The Board voted to approve the assignments.
Roofing at Holmes Elementary School
Sealed bids were requested from interested vendors to provide a partial roof replacement at Holmes Elementary School. Staff recommended the Board approve the lowest bid by White Castle Roofing & Construction in Lincoln for the amount of $1,252,049.
The Board voted to approve the bid.
Informational items and reports
The Career Academy report
Board member Lanny Boswell gave an update from the last meeting of The Career Academy Board.
The group met earlier in the day and approved the 2022-2025 TCA Strategic Plan. The finalized plan is the result of a process that took several months and involved staff from Southeast Community College and Lincoln Public Schools, and various community members. The plan includes six priority areas - Student Success, Operational Excellence, Pathway Enrichment/Curriculum, Recruitment and Outreach, Staff Excellence and Collaborative Partnerships. The plan builds on past successes and identifies metrics for success over the next three years. These areas include increasing the retention rate of students from junior to senior year, doubling the number of professional development opportunities offered to staff, and collaborating with the LPS curriculum department to develop two "pre-TCA" courses aimed at students in grades 9 and 10.
The TCA Board also met with three students who shared how TCA connected them to job opportunities. Southeast High School student Julian shared about his experience in the precision machining pathway. Through connections made at a TCA job fair, Julian now has a part-time job at TMCO, and has been accepted at SCC Milford to continue his education as a machinist.
Another Southeast High School student, Micah, shared he is spending most of his day at TCA in both the welding and machinist pathways. Micah connected with Lincoln Industries at TCA, earning a part-time job and that is helping him in continuing his education at SCC in Milford.
Finally, Southwest High School student Michaela is a health sciences student working three days a week as a nursing assistant at The Waterford. Michaela will be testing soon for her CNA certification, the next milestone in her plan to become a labor and delivery nurse.
Superintendent update
Superintendent Paul Gausman gave an update to the Board about recent programs he has learned about during his transition period. Gausman recently learned more about First Job Lincoln and the Learn to Dream program and scholarships offered to students.
Gausman also spoke about the TCA Culinary Competition and congratulated the students who participated. He also congratulated the East High School One-Act for winning district competition. Gausman reminded everyone it is the season for winter performances.
Finally, Gausman spoke about the open mic night held to commemorate Native American Heritage Month. Students shared their creative works that honored local tribes.
Public comment
There was one individual that addressed the Board during public comment. You can watch the public comment agenda item in the full meeting video here.
Glimpses of LPS
We open every Board meeting with a video that highlights Lincoln Public Schools. Tuesday’s Glimpses featured highlights from Backstage at the Ballet.
Posted on December 13, 2022
Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - December 13, 2022
The Lincoln Board of Education will hold its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6:00 p.m. located in the Boardroom at Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
Members of the public and media may access the meeting via live video streaming or by physically attending the meetings, which are subject to all national, state and local limitations on public gatherings associated with COVID-19. Overflow accommodations may need to be implemented to ensure the health and safety of all in attendance.
The agenda for all meetings can be found here: lps.org/board.
There are multiple ways to view the livestream of all meetings:
- Board webpage
- LPS YouTube Channel
- LNK TV Education Channel (Spectrum channel 1303, Allo channel 23, or LNKTV in the AppleTV and Roku app store)
Participation by citizens in the Regular Board Meeting
The Board believes public attendance and participation, when appropriate to the business at hand, is beneficial to the work of the Board and models the importance of civic engagement and civil discourse to the community’s children, but it cannot impede the Board from completing the business of the meeting.
In keeping with Board Policy 8420 and Neb Statute 84-1412(3), the Lincoln Board of Education has established these reasonable regulations to conduct Public Comment:
- Persons speaking during Public Comment will be called forward individually by the Board Chair to the location identified for such purpose.
- A time limit of three minutes will be allotted for any speaker unless prior to the beginning of the Public Comment agenda item, the chair sets a different reasonable time frame to be allotted for speakers in order to accommodate the number of persons who have submitted "Record of Appearance" cards. The time limit is per speaker, per meeting and may not be transferred or assigned to other speakers.
- The chair may endeavor to organize public comment by what agenda items or other issues have been identified as topics by public speakers, adjust for the age of speakers, and/or split the Public Comment agenda item to be conducted in different positions within the Board’s Order of Business. At the discretion of the chair, the speaker may be allotted additional time. Board members may share, address or consider comments from the public during public comment, at the end of public comment or when related business is on the agenda.
- In order to be called forward to address the Board during Public Comment, each person wishing to speak must obtain a "Record of Appearance" card from staff at the meeting in which they wish to speak. "Record of Appearance" cards are available beginning 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the meeting. Those wishing to speak must accurately complete the required sections of the card, and submit it to the appropriate staff member by 15 minutes after the start of the meeting.
- Individuals will be called forward to speak by name, organization being represented, if applicable, and address. Each individual speaking to the Board will be required to identify himself or herself prior to giving public comment by stating their first and last name and, if applicable, any organization they represent.
- In cases where more than one person wishes to speak on the same topic, their presentations to the Board may, at the discretion of the chair, be grouped together by topic.
- If the number of people wishing to speak under the public comment portions of the agenda is large, the chair may rule that a public hearing be scheduled.
- Persons speaking to the Board during public comment may make printed materials (paper no larger than 8.5 x 11 inches) available to the Board but may not use any other form of media. Public speakers are asked to provide 10 copies of any copies of printed materials presented to the Board.
Persons attending Board meetings and/or speaking to the Board during Public Comment or during a public hearing must follow all requirements established by the Board, as well as all Board, chair and staff directions in order to help maintain the order, proper decorum, safety and security, and the non-disruptive functioning of the Board meeting. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Abiding by time limits;
- Refraining from applauding, cheering, jeering, or engaging in speech that defames any individual(s), or stymies or blocks meeting progress;
- Refraining from the use of audio recordings, video recordings, or any digital still images, posters, signs, costumes, other props and/or photographs;
- Refraining from abusive, disruptive or threatening language or gestures; and
- Staying in the areas identified by the Board as reserved for the public.
If at any time persons appearing before the Board do not comply with these or any other Board requirements, it shall be the responsibility of the chair to declare that person or persons out of order and require a change in behavior, delay or recess the meeting, or refuse permission to continue to address the Board, and ultimately may require the person or persons to leave the premises of the Board meeting.
Posted on December 09, 2022
Recent Items
- Student News Desk | Dynamic Duo boosts Lincoln East Speech Team
- LPS announces next round of administrator changes
- Class equips Schoo students for leadership opportunities
- Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation donation extends the gift of music at LPS
- LPS awarded federal grant to fund additional elementary counselors
- LPS adds more Safety Social Workers to help school security
- First annual African Diaspora Symposium builds connections within the Northeast community
- LPS announces Andrew Sherman as next athletic and activities director for Southwest High School
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- LPS response to national 'SWATting' calls
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- Lincoln Police and Prescott Elementary administration quickly and safely handle security incident at school
- Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - February 28, 2023
- 2023-2024 Educator Interview Fair - February 24
- Lux sixth grade student wins 2023 annual Spelling Bee
- LPS announces administrator changes for the 2023-24 school year
- Lincoln Standing Bear High School will open with freshmen and sophomores only
- Highlights of the 2/14 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
- Updated school safety information following incidents at Irving and Culler middle schools
- Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - February 14, 2023
- LPS administrators announce retirement plans
- Standing Bear High School virtual info session
- Student News Desk: LSE social studies teacher has his own unique past to share
- Highlights of the 1/24 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
- Highlights: 1/10 Lincoln Board of Education work session and regular meeting
- LPS introduces Blake Simpson as Director of Employee Relations
- Historical Match Up: LPS hosts first citywide girls’ wrestling competition
- Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - January 24, 2022
- Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education work session and regular meeting - January 10, 2022
- Enrollment for Standing Bear High School now open
- LPS announces interim athletic director for Northwest High School
- The Seat Beside You: Tommy’s Light
- LPS announces school closure Wednesday, district closure Thursday
- LPS continues to monitor weather forecasts for week, adjusts finals schedules
- Roper students get a sneak peek 'Backstage at the Ballet'
- Highlights: 12/13 Lincoln Board of Education regular meeting
- Meeting notice for the Lincoln Board of Education Regular Meeting - December 13, 2022