One again, the summer is flying by. When you have the privilege of working for an organization like Lincoln Public Schools, the days and weeks are busy – and enjoyable. Much good work is taking place over these summer months to make certain we lay the foundation to improve the educational experience for our children. To move forward, we can’t stand still, and much of our strategic thinking is about how we can move from an 87 to 90 percent graduation rate. It will be our toughest challenge ever but we have the people and resources to get there.
At the top of the excitement list is the opening of The Career Academy this August. With 400 high school students from across the community committed to work with an impressive array of teachers, the Academy will change the lives of young people who have interests and aptitudes in one of the 13 career pathways offered. I want to thank our business partners who have provided more than a million dollars for equipment and scholarships. We are adding more partners each day.
The first phase of the LPS instructional technology plan will have Chrome Books in the hands of all sixth graders when the 2015-16 school year begins. Teachers have been hard at work developing the necessary skills to be able to maximize the digital learning experience. Please remember, though, that technology will not replace great teaching.
We are fortunate to live in a growing and progressive community that values strong education. The investment that our parents and patrons make to support our students and staff is humbling. As we head into 2015-16, we pledge to continue to provide the highest quality opportunities for each and every one of our 40,000 students.
Steve
