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 …

Counting down to first day of school at LPS

We are counting down to the beginning of the 2017-18 school year for Lincoln Public Schools: The first day is Monday, August 14. I believe the initial reminder the new school year is upon us is the welcoming back of administrators – and then teachers. With close to 400 new …

Thank you for a great 2016 – looking ahead to 2017

As 2016 draws to a close, I would like to thank all Lincoln Public Schools staff, families and community members for their hard work in helping our students succeed in school and in life. With more than 1,000 new students and 420 new teachers this school year, this is not an …

Looking toward the future of LPS, our community, our country

The Lincoln Board of Education Tuesday evening discussed the first draft of what is called the Lincoln Public Schools Ten-Year Facility and Infrastructure Plan.  This is a major work in progress that will evolve over time, and the necessity for forward planning is obvious.  With more than 4,000 new students enrolled …