Spring break this week at Lincoln Public Schools is an ideal time to reflect on what lies ahead for our students and staff. While snow and cold were still lingering at the beginning of the month, the warm weather managed to get here in time for outdoor activities and travel to be enjoyed. I trust that all will return next week refreshed and energized for a strong finish to our school year.
In addition to preparing ourselves for the assessment season, we are also working diligently to develop plans to implement our technology initiative. We will launch the technology plan for the 2015-16 school year, beginning with curriculum content and devices for all sixth graders, then other grades phased in over a three-year cycle. The tech plan has been in development for several years and represents both the best practices that we have studied across the country as well as important lessons learned from our own pilot programs. We are excited to see the increased engagement our students will have with their learning as technology will augment the great teaching already occurring in our classrooms.
Meanwhile, boundary discussions necessary with construction of two new LPS schools – an elementary opening in 2016 and a middle school opening in 2017 – have been robust. It is challenging but worthwhile work effectively managing the dramatic growth in student population while seeking equity in where our students attend school. Our Lincoln Board of Education has appreciated the concerns expressed by patrons, has listened closely and will continue to seek a fair resolution.
Finally, with the Legislature in session, school funding is of high concern. As a rapidly growing school district with increased needs (ie, poverty, English Language Learners, mental health), we continue to make the case that funding must follow the kids. For instance, with more than 400 homeless children and 60 incarcerated, we have to seek ways to alter their trajectory – and that requires necessary funding. The Board of Education’s goal of reaching a 90 percent on-time graduation rate in the next 5 years will require us to think about time and delivery differently for these special populations of children that historically struggle to succeed.
We look forward to the challenge.
Steve
