Counting 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 attending the school district in 2018-19, marking the first time enrollment has surpassed 42,000. While any student growth is welcome, this …

Awe 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 wee students are saying good bye. In the old days (last few years) this meant a few emotional …

First 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 students, we get energized when we think of that first day. In my 33rd year as a …

Summer 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 breathe easier, reflect on what was another excellent year at Lincoln Public Schools and start looking …

Safety 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 Mayor Chris Beutler ranks as an excellent model city leader in recognizing and prioritizing an investment in …

Spring 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 rainy. While some are able to head to warmer climates, I believe many …

Keeping 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 to light that these events will likely continue until we develop a societal solution to the abundance of …

LPS 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 continued to demonstrate academic growth.   These results are a tribute to the educators, staff and administrators at each of …

First 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 experienced over the past five to six years.  The good news is that our city continues to draw …