It is hard to believe that another year is in the books – but looking back I believe 2012 was another very good year for Lincoln Public Schools in virtually all areas.
Our academic achievement was up as was the graduation rate. We finished most of the ten-year facility projects that were planned and are rebuilding the LPS District Offices. Financially, the budget is in good shape and we are working hard to make this a good year in the State Legislature. Overall, our strategic planning process means that we have greater control of our own destiny.
Looking ahead to a New Year, safety and security could result in state and federal intervention as we have come to recognize that schools and students are targets of disturbed and angry people. In fact, I think this has the potential to be a big issue for the country. With several states, Utah and Texas, conducting training for teachers to be able to carry, we can expect this topic to be discussed in Nebraska as well. We have already begun reviewing our procedures and will be seeking improvements as we go forward.
The opening of LPS District Offices in the summer of 2013 will be a major community event and represent the commitment, considerable planning and dedication of so many of our staff. We all will admit now that the challenge did seem daunting at first, but so many people rose to the occasion including the Lincoln Board of Education. The Grand Opening of the building will be a commemoration for all who were impacted and contributed.
The New Year is also time to initiate the next ten-year LPS facility plan discussion. The growth of the school district is almost scary, as we have annually averaged more than 600 new students (a Wahoo Public Schools) for a number of years. The proposed city housing developments are pointing to many more families moving into our area in the next few years as Lincoln continues to expand.
Key leadership and other school district retirements will be a multi-year challenge as many more boomers get ready to transition to other life directions. While probably not as severe as last year, I think we will be seeking replacements for several important school district leadership positions before this year ends.
The Career Academy discussion will also continue in the near future with a Board of Education work session scheduled to begin creating consensus for structure and curriculum.
We are mindful that, due to the nature of our work in public education, there will be times when unexpected events occur and we are temporarily blown off course. But as we head into 2013 we continue to focus on our strategic priorities – and on creating the best environment possible for teaching and learning.
Happy new year,
Steve
