LPS believes in developing “whole” child
Football season has arrived and once again I am reminded, I really enjoy the game. In fact, I have always felt athletics offered kids incredible opportunities to experience what it was like to be on a...
View ArticleA newspaper junkie laments challenges of misinformation
There are days when I feel like I am the last person around who actually reads a physical newspaper – as I lament their ultimate demise with a “what will I do now” reaction. I grew up reading and...
View ArticleAn unexpected reunion, a surprise reminder of gratitude
An unexpected reunion with grade-school classmate and Educare supporter, Jeff Sunshine This is always one of the best times of the year for celebratory events, and student and staff acknowledgements,...
View Article‘Pivot point’ of winter taught us life lessons
This winter has been one of the roughest in all my experience as a school district superintendent. While snow days calls are always fun – and challenging – the additional water issues we experienced...
View ArticleSurviving the winter of 2019, looking ahead to spring
Whew, this has been a winter to forget. I vaguely remember hearing a meteorologist predict earlier in the fall that this would be a mild winter with below average precipitation. I am happy that we...
View ArticleLet’s cheer for our winners
People who know me are aware that I REALLY enjoy football. Having played, coached and spent hours (mainly weekends) watching, I consider myself somewhat knowledgeable. I am fascinated by the intrigue...
View ArticleLocal video reflects mental health challenges for our students
I was fortunate this week to view “The Mind Inside,” the most recent video production from Nebraska Loves Public Schools. Set within a middle school in Millard, it is a powerful representation of the...
View ArticleHappy new year, thank you …. and looking ahead to 2019
As 2018 comes to a close, I always like to use the final blog of the year to say “thank you” – thank you to all our employees, students, parents and community. We are so fortunate to work with...
View ArticlePausing at year’s end to celebrate significant achievements
On more than one occasion in my career (and personal life) I have been appropriately reminded that periodically, I need to pause a moment to recognize and celebrate our successes and achievements. I...
View ArticleSchool visits bring awe of students and staff
Today I visited Huntington Elementary School and spent time with an energized staff, as well as energized Huntington Principal Rik Devney. This school has worked hard on helping students learn, grow...
View ArticleCounting kids and naming giraffes
Lincoln Public Schools officially counted children earlier this week and student enrollment in our school district continues to rise, with historic new highs this school year: 42,035 students are...
View ArticleAwe inspiring start to school
The first week of school is always special. The energy and excitement that is displayed is awe inspiring. I always visit at least two elementary school drop-offs for kindergartners, where parents and...
View ArticleFirst week of school symbolizes why we do what we do
Each year at this time, the anticipation increases for the beginning of another school year at Lincoln Public Schools. While we educators would love to see the summers last longer, just like our...
View ArticleSummer at Lincoln Public Schools: Reflecting back, looking ahead
We began the 2017-18 school year with a visit from U.S. Secretary Betsy DeVos, and closed the year this past weekend with successful graduation ceremonies at all six high schools. Today we can finally...
View ArticleSafety and security: Schools cannot do it alone
I believe Lincoln ranks as an excellent model community in this country when it comes to caring deeply for children – all children, including those who need additional help and support. And Lincoln...
View ArticleSpring break and heading to the finish line
Spring break always seems to come at the wrong time according to the weather forecast. When it should be a time of warmth and sunny skies, over the last few years our breaks have been cloudy and...
View ArticleKeeping our schools as safe as possible at LPS
I am saddened by the horrific tragedy experienced in Parkland, Florida last week and my heart goes out to the community, students and families. Unfortunately, I believe this shooting once again calls...
View ArticleSecond semester filled with weather decisions, legislative vigilance, hope
We were excited to welcome back our Lincoln Public Schools students and staff members early in January after a nice holiday break. As we look to second semester, we are thankful for the incredible...
View ArticleLPS greets new year with past success and belief in future
By most measures, 2017 was another excellent year for Lincoln Public Schools. Despite the challenges associated with incredible student growth and the employment of more than 400 new teachers, we have...
View ArticleFirst quarter at LPS brings growth, planning – and Betsy DeVos
Lincoln Public Schools recently announced an additional 830 students were enrolled in our schools this year, a number consistent with what we have projected – and consistent with the growth we have...
View Article