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January 2018

‘Whoa!’ Landslides and volcanoes at Zeman Elementary School Kelly Frankenberg’s fifth-grade science class at Zeman Elementary School recently witnessed a series of landslides that caused mass destruction, topped off by a volcanic eruption near the end of class. These events were simulated, of course, and small enough to fit on a paper plate - but Frankenberg used them to teach her students about how events such as these can alter the earth’s surface, part of a larger science unit about rocks and minerals. Frankenberg explained there are earth-altering events that cause fast-moving processes, such as landslides, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Then there are the events that work more slowly on the earth’s surface, such as erosion through wind, water and ice. “There’s cause and effect with everything,” she told her class. The students were able to recreate landslides through a simple activity involving paper plates, markers, sand and water. First, in groups of four, they drew trees, landscaping, houses and people around the edge of a paper plate. Next, Frankenberg gave each group a small plastic cup packed with sand. The students carefully flipped the cups on to their plates, creating miniature mountains. Finally, the landslides: They first dripped water onto the sand, which had little effect, then used a plastic bottle to stream water onto the sand - causing a full-fledged landslide and “destroying” everything in its path. Near the end of class, Frankenberg simulated a volcanic eruption by using baking soda and vinegar. She used clay to show how lava can form the surfaces in its path. “This is how the Hawaiian islands were formed.” Many of the students had the same reaction to the volcano, projected onto a screen at the front of the class: “Whoa!” The goal of the Lincoln Public Schools science program is to help all students develop an understanding of the natural world and how humans utilize and impact the environment. The curriculum is based on the Nebraska State Science Standards and the National Science Standards. The four themes studied in elementary schools are living things, the physical world, space/earth and STS (science, technology, and society)/environment. Students experiment and do handson-activities to learn to value curiosity, openness, inquiry and critical thinking skills in science as a part of everyday living.

High school open houses scheduled for eighth-grade students High school enrollment is right around the comer for eighth-grade students. We want to provide information to help your family make a successful transition into ninth grade. An important component in the transition process are the informational meetings at the six Lincoln Public Schools high schools* in January. These meetings are designed to welcome you and your student into the high school and meet with counselors and instructional staff to learn about the opportunities available at that school. Since students entering the ninth grade may choose the high school they want to attend in LPS, these meetings have been scheduled to give you the opportunity to attend more than one high school meeting before the Jan. 31 deadline for submitting the “High School Choice” form. East High School: Wednesday, January 10, 2018 6:30 p.m. Southwest High School: Thursday, January 11, 2018 6:30 p.m. Southeast High School: Tuesday, January 16, 2018 6:30 p.m. North Star High School: Thursday, January 18, 2018 6:30 p.m. Northeast High School: Monday, January 22, 2018 6:30 p.m. Lincoln High School: Tuesday, January 23, 2018 6:30 p.m. *Some students choose to participate in one of the specialty programs offered in LPS: Science Focus Program; Arts & Humanities Focus Program; Bryan Focus Program; International Baccalaureate (IB) and The Career Academy. Students enrolled in a specialty program are also enrolled as a student at one of the six comprehensive LPS high schools.

What’s Inside Section A: • TCA Student Creates App. . . . . . A2 • Curtain Call at LHS . . . . . . . . . . . A3 • His Day with MLK. . . . . . . . . . . . A6 • Meet Our Board of Education. . . A7 • Yankee Hill Graduation. . . . . . . . A8 • Senators Applaud Curriculum. . A9 • Wellness: Keeping it Simple . . A11 • LHS Student Makes History. . . A11 What’s Inside Section B: • Unified Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1 • Kindness at Lefler . . . . . . . . . . . . B1 • Author Channy Laux Returns. . . B2 • Language Teachers Honored . . . B3 • Thank You Lincoln. . . . . . . . . . . . B4 • November Learning Lunch. . . . . B5 • Scottish Rite Winner. . . . . . . . . . B5 • December Learning Lunch. . . . . B6 • LNE Junior ROTC . . . . . . . . . . . . B8 • Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B9 • TeamMates of the Month . . . . . B10 • Backstage at the Ballet . . . . . . . B11

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

TCA student creates app for those in crisis Noah Costello has been fascinated by computer programming since he was on the robotics team at Irving Middle School. He’s now a senior at Lincoln Southeast High School and on the info tech pathway at The Career Academy (TCA), where he’s witnessed first hand how he can make a difference by applying what he’s learning in the classroom. Last summer, Costello had an internship at Don’t Panic Labs, a Lincoln software development firm. He helped develop an app that consolidates information from local human services agencies and makes it available for people in crisis who may not always have internet access but do have a mobile phone where the app and its information can be stored. For example, there are agencies to contact for assistance if you fall behind on your electric or gas bill, or if you need access to food stamps. “That’s something that really interests me about technology the impact it can have on people’s lives,” Costello said. “It’s a big motivation to do my best.” TCA is a joint venture between Lincoln Public Schools and Southeast Community College (SCC). TCA’s goal is to provide academic and real-world experience to juniors and seniors through high school and dual credit courses in 16 different career pathways. Students typically attend TCA for two hours a day during the regular school year while taking their remaining courses at their home high school. “It’s great to be able to come here and focus on programming for two hours,” Costello said. SCC instructor Hildy Dickinson has taught Costello since he started at TCA his junior year. She praised him for his independent work habits and the solid academic foundation he brought to her courses. “They have a really strong programming curriculum at Lincoln Southeast,” she said.

That’s something that really interests me about technology - the impact it can have on people’s lives

Graduation is coming. Don’t wait, get your Go Po done early. Find volunteer needs at Volunteerlinc.org/GOPO

Volunteerlinc.org dan@volunteerlinc.org | 402-435-2100

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

Curtain call for Lincoln High theatre students Lincoln High School theatre students took their show on the road Dec. 6 at the state play production championships. They performed their one-act play, “Skinflints & Scoundrels: Moliere's Miser,” at the Nebraska School Activities Association state competition at the Johnny Carson Theatre in Norfolk, where they finished third. The Lincoln High cast and crew advanced to state after winning their district competition, held Dec. 2 at LHS. It was the culmination of a five-week production process in which the students built an ensemble, blocked the play, experimented with makeup, created costumes, built a set and added music - all on a limited budget and limited rehearsal time after school. They performed the play twice - once for the public and once for competition. LHS Theatre Director Justin D. Holbein said the cast and crew represent everything that LHS theatre stands for: diversity, engagement and professionalism. “If this is not the epitome of a professional theatrical company work ethic I don’t know what is,” Holbein said. He added that the students cherished the district victory and the trip to state, but it’s not their primary motivation. “The ability to take their production ‘on the road’ so other students can experience all LHS theatre has to offer is the goal each year for these students.” Photos courtesy of Carson Allen and Brianna Koch.

You are Invited to the 2018 Spring Season Open House Tuesday, January 16, 2018 Lincoln Community Foundation 215 Centennial Mall 7:00 pm

The Jr. Rampage objective is to educate youth players, coaches, and fans about the sport of lacrosse with a focus on sportsmanship, skill development, and competitive spirit. We strive to grow the sport in Nebraska and provide full 10 vs 10 lacrosse for youth players.

For More Information contact Jr Rampage Lacrosse at lincolnjrrampage@gmail.com www.lincolnlax.net Facebook: Jr. Rampage Lacrosse Twitter: @LacrosseJr

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

2017 Category Winners Kristy Kennedy Kate Manstedt

Nebraska Teacher Recognition Day is Tuesday, March 6, 2018. It is time to say “Thank You” to a teacher who has made a difference.

The annual Thank You Teacher Contest gives students and former students an opportunity to tell teachers they are appreciated. Five teachers and the students who nominate them will be invited to breakfast at the Governor’s Mansion on Tuesday, March 6. Send a written description of how your teacher made a difference in your life to: Thank You Teacher Lincoln Public Schools Communication Services Department 5905 O Street Lincoln, NE 68510 Or submit online at: http://lps.org/go/recognize Nominations must be received by 5 p.m., Friday, February 9, 2018.

NEBRASKA TEACHER RECOGNITION DAY Sponsored by: KFOR/KFRX, Lincoln Public Schools, Lincoln Education Association, and Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools

Name

Teacher’s Name

School

Grade

Teacher’s School

Student’s Home Address City

Teacher’s Home Address State

Zip

City

State

Zip

q Preschool - Grade 2 q Grades 3 - 5 q Middle School q High School q Retired

The Teacher I am nominating teaches:

GIFT BAGS TO THE WINNERS OF EACH CATEGORY.

JAECKS SATURDAY SCIENCE for LPS 5th Grade Students

Saturday Science Application February 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 2018 • UNL • Jorgensen Hall Student’s Name: School:

Grade:

Parent’s Name: Address: Zip:

Phone:

Email:

I hereby apply to have my child enrolled in Saturday Science classes. (Please designate 1st and 2nd choice.)

JAECKS SATURDAY SCIENCE OPEN TO LPS STUDENTS ONLY

Four Saturdays in February 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th at UNL Jorgensen Hall (City Campus) Morning and Afternoon Sessions Available

___ Morning Sessions, 9:30-11:30 a.m. ___ Afternoon Sessions, 1:00-3:00 p.m. I give permission for my child to be photographed during Saturday Science. q Yes q No Parent’s Signature:

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 12, 2018

$40 per Student

Scholarships Available, Inquire at Your School

Since there is a limited number of spaces, applications will be accepted as they arrive. A waiting list will be created if needed. If space remains applications will be accepted after this date.

For More Information Contact:

APPLICATION FORMS ARE TO BE SENT TO:

James Blake (402) 436-1802 Jamie Greenlee (402) 436-1825

James Blake, LPS Curriculum Department P.O. Box 82889, Lincoln, NE 68501 Please enclose a check for $40.

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

inspiring

Sparking new ideas and interests CAPITAL SOCCER ASSOCIATION Lincoln’s Premier Soccer Club

Winter Micro Session 2 (Ages 2-5) 2018 Program Weeks • June 4-8 • June 11-15 • June 18-22 • June 25-29 • July 9-13

• Registration begins March 24 • STEAM* based classes • Hands-on learning • Students choose a class topic of interest My son was thrilled with • Need-based scholarships his class. It combined available *Science, technology, engineering, arts and math

Learn more about scholarships and registration at BrightLights.org

his love for Legos with his interest in computer programming. He came away inspired and excited. What more could a parent ask for? – Bright Lights Parent

Registration: $30 (Includes shirt) Wednesdays 5:00-6:00 p.m. January 17, 24, 31 & February 7

U7 (6 yrs-old) Spring Online Registration Open Training 1X/week plus games. Registration: $90

Go to Capitalsoccer.com or call our office at (402) 464-5425 to register. Winter training and Spring Season Registration available for U8-U15 as well. Please contact our office for details.

402.420.1115

Morrill Hall Saturday, February 3 | 9:30am–4:30pm Explore the who’s who of natural history and science topics through hands-on activities. •Learn about animals and their environments past and present • Explore astronomy and catch a Mueller Planetarium fulldome show • Don’t forget to bring your rocks and fossils to be identified

museum.unl.edu Regular Museum Admission | Museum Members attend for free! Morrill Hall, south of 14th & Vine, UNL City Campus

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination.

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

Remembering his day with MLK Fifth-grade students at Morley Elementary School recently read “Just Like Martin,” in which author Ossie Davis writes of his experience growing up in Alabama during the rise of Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. On Nov. 20, the students heard from a retired Lincoln police officer who spent a memorable day with King in 1964, one year after his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Albert Maxey was 25 years old and still relatively new to the police force when he was assigned to security duty for King during his visit to Lincoln for a speech at Pershing Auditorium. It’s an experience he still vividly remembers, more than 50 years later. King asked Maxey questions about his life, including his move from Indianapolis to Lincoln to play basketball for the University of Nebraska. Maxey said talking to him was like talking to a brother - except he was too nervous to ask King any questions. “He talked about life in general and he talked about the movement at the time,” Maxey told the students. The students peppered him with questions - and still had plenty more when class ended. Before they left for recess, Maxey passed around framed photos of King’s visit to Lincoln, including one from the Omaha World-Herald that showed him with King. “Since then I have felt so privileged to have spent that short amount of time with him,” Maxey said. “He said the right things at the right time that people needed to hear.”

Where What You Do and Who You Are We believe education isn’t about your next four years, but your next 40. It’s about more than a degree or a career path, but your life path. At Hastings, your next four years will be spent exploring the here and now on a welcoming campus filled with experienced mentors who teach, counsel, inspire, support, guide and advocate as you work to define who you are and what it is you want to do.

Because the greatest success is when what you do, and who you are, align.

SCHEDULE A VISIT AT HASTINGS.EDU/VISIT

Hastings College - LPS '17 Fall.indd 1

9/15/17 2:13 PM

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

Board Recognition Month: Meet the LPS Board

Kathy Danek District 1 Elected May 2001 LPS Board Member

What do you hope for the children in our community?

Lanny Boswell

District 5 Elected May 2011 LPS Board President

What do you hope for the children in our community?

That every child will be college, career or life ready when they leave our My hope is that the children in our community are happy, healthy, safe, schools. Children have dreams. We need to prepare them to find their dreams, and excited about learning. I want all of our students to be prepared to be and also to be equipped for the changes that happens as our community, state successful adults, ready for college, careers, and all that awaits them in life. and nation change. What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? The eclipse was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our students. I Our North Star High School grad Lorenzo. Perseverance and a whole lot of appreciated spending that day with students at Adams Elementary, and was people making sure he graduated even when life got in the way. impressed with how hard staff worked to make it a safe and educational opportunity.

Connie Duncan District 2 Elected May 2015 LPS Board Member ESU Vice President

What do you hope for the children in our community? I hope that all of our children feel loved and accepted. What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? I loved reading to the students at Hartley during Harvest of Books. I was reading to one little girl when another came up to me and said she couldn’t find anywhere to sit and could she sit on my lap to listen to my story. I of course said yes! We finished reading the book and she looked me in the eye and said, “Thank you and you smell really nice. Just like my doctor!”

Barb Baier District 3 Elected May 2005 LPS Board Member

Matt Schulte

District 6 Elected May 2013 LPS Board Member

What do you hope for the children in our community? One of the most exciting things for me is when a student achieves their potential. My hope is that every kid in LPS can reach their full potential and have a positive impact on our community. What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? This fall my wife and I had the most fantastic musical experience ever... it was amazing. We saw Southwest choir students perform Carmina Burana with six other high schools and the Omaha symphony. As we sat there enveloped in this amazingly powerful musical performance, time just flew by. Over 500 voices and the symphony. I walked out of that performance so proud of LPS students. The musical quality was amazing. https://www.omahasymphony.org/education/schools-and-educators/ choral-collaborative/

Don Mayhew

District 7 Elected May 2001 LPS Board Vice President

What do you hope for the children in our community? Equal opportunity to access education, decent housing, nutritious food, and safe neighborhoods. What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? LPS started Unified Bowling a couple years ago. Unified Bowling partners students with disabilities with students without disabilities to pursue competitive bowling. This year, 47 athletes were paired with 69 partners at our six high schools. Lincoln High School won 2nd place at State. Everyone involved learns so much from each other, and the best thing is everyone has fun!

Annie Mumgaard District 4 Elected May 2015 LPS Board Member ESU Board President

What do you hope for the children in our community? Children don’t all start life in the same place. Kids come to our schools with a large number of challenges. To my mind, a high quality education system is a great equalizer. It’s a message to our kids that no matter where they come from or what challenges they face, if they work hard enough and dream big enough they can achieve anything they want. My hope is that every single child in Lincoln’s public schools gets the tools they need to pursue life-long learning and to build a successful, happy life. What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? I will always remember 2017 as the year we completed the work of creating our new strategic plan for the district. It has been in the works for more than a year and half, and represents countless hours of board and staff effort, and valuable feedback from all across the community. This plan will drive our most important decisions for the next several years.

What do you hope for the children in our community? That they grow knowing they are valuable to our world and have great worth within them. And for those reasons, we need them to be their best selves for all of us. And a large part of that has to be taught. So it has to be more than hope to make that happen. What is your favorite LPS story from Fall 2017? When I visited Hartley, there was a volunteer working with a student in the hall. They were having a great time making their way through the child’s worksheet. I was told the student had not been having such a positive moment before the volunteer arrived. Learning happens in so many ways. I was struck with how it truly takes a village to educate our children.

Read more about our Board Members by logging on to lps.org!

Y T T I B Y ITT Ages 3 to 5 S T R O SP

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

Planning ahead to Spring Break? We now have all Spring Break Camps listed online and ready for you to enroll today!

nces early on. e sports experie Promote positiv dence and selfyear-oldâ€™s confi re sports. Build your 3-5ng them for futu pi ep pr le hi w esteem

SPORTS T DEVELOPMEN Starts Jan. 23 19 Register by Jan.

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Visit www.LUXcenter.org to see a full list of classes, workshops, and events and sign up today! Campus Recreation welcomes persons with all abilities. Please inquire about the availability of accommodations for special needs. The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination.

2601 N. 48th Street | 402.466.8692

Good Health is a Family Affair

Pla y, ex erci se togeth er

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Healthy Living Healthy Families

Healthy New Year HealthyLincoln.org Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

Senators applaud LPS for literacy curriculum Two state senators visited Lincoln Public Schools elementary schools on Dec. 13 to learn more about how the district teaches literacy, their final stops on a statewide fact-finding tour of classrooms. By the end of the day, Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks of Lincoln and Lou Ann Linehan of Omaha praised LPS for its comprehensive and innovative literacy curriculum. “This tour helped confirm what I already knew - that Lincoln Public Schools has some of the finest teachers around,” said Pansing Brooks. “These teachers continue to find creative and innovative ways to educate our youth, and in turn, create a brighter future for all of us. I am incredibly proud of the work they are doing, and will continue to support our fabulous educators and public schools throughout my time in the Legislature.” The senators, both members of the Legislature’s Education Committee, visited reading classrooms at Elliott, Randolph and Wysong elementary schools. “What we just saw - amazing,” said Linehan after their Elliott visit, later adding: “It’s clear this district is using best practices. Now we just need to make sure everyone else is.” The senators visited a combination of kindergarten, first- and second-grade classrooms. They spoke with teachers and LPS administrators about the many strategies and support systems used in district classrooms across Lincoln, including: • “Reading Recovery,” which is utilized in all first-grade classrooms to support struggling students. • McGraw-Hill Reading Wonders, which is the district’s core curriculum. Wonders includes daily phonemic awareness instruction in kindergarten and first grade. Wonders also includes daily systematic and explicit phonics instruction. • Guided reading instruction in small groups. These daily lessons are tailored to the specific needs of the students in the group. The senators’ visit to LPS wrapped up a tour that included stops in five other cities. It’s all part of an interim study examining how schools teach literacy, as well as issues surrounding students with dyslexia. Both senators said their findings could contribute to legislation introduced during the upcoming Unicameral session, which begins Jan. 3.

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

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GET OUT. BE ACTIVE. HAVE FUN! fundamental summer day camps Our summer recreation programming for youth grades K-7 focus on fun, friendships, fitness, and healthy lifestyle choices. Activities include the development of social skills, along with character education and an emphasis on nutrition. Need-based scholarships available.

s t u o r p S Little school Pre Our preschool program is focused on music, art, and other fun early childhood activities to help support the learning and development of children ages 3-5.

Call the center or (402) 441-7952 for more information. Join us for summer FUN from

May 29 - August 10, 2018 Weekdays • 7AM - 6PM

Regist ratio begin n s

Janua r

Grades

Call for info:

Air Park

3720 NW 46th St.

K-5

(402) 441-7876

Belmont

1234 Judson St.

K-4

(402) 441-6789

66th & Vine

K-5

(402) 441-7952

Bethany Park Calvert

4500 Stockwell

K-4, 5-7

(402) 441-8480

F Street

1225 “F” St.

K-5

(402) 441-7951

1234 Judson St.

5-7

(402) 441-6789

K-4, 5-7

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K-5

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2010 Van Dorn St. 820 Goodhue

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GET WILD WITH NATURE CAMPS!

Summer Nature Day Camps for youth aged 3-17yrs! Register today for Camp Discovery (ages 3-6), Wilderness Nature Camp (ages 6-13) or Leadership Camp (ages 14-17). Call the Pioneers Park Nature Center at (402) 441-7895 for more information.

Ready. Set. GROW! GET MOVING WITH DANCE!: BALLET AND JAZZ

NFL FLAG FOOTBALL

Saturdays, February 10-March 17

All players will get an official NFL flag football jersey! Official 5-on-5 flag program of the NFL. 10-person teams are organized by friend requests and geographic areas. Practice time determined by volunteer coach. Season begins March 26, 2018. Divisions: K-1, 2-3, 4-5 and 6-8. Fees: $70/child, $65/add’l child.

Your little dancer will learn basic ballet or jazz steps, balance, and coordination. Ages 3-6yrs. Fee: $28

For more information, call Calvert Rec Center at (402) 441-8480.

parks.lincoln.ne.gov (402) 441-7847

where it really does pay to visit. Visit Doane during your senior year of high school, enroll, and receive our $4,000 visit grant. That’s $1,000 per year for four years— just for making an official campus visit. Call us at 402.826.6767 for a personalized visit or check out our online virtual tour at doane.edu/virtual-tour.

doane.edu/visit

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

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Keeping It Simple: Hacks for a Better New Year Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT, LPS District Wellness Facilitator, Bob Rauner, MD, President, Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln

What would you like to have happen in 2018? Maybe the goal is to keep life simple – slow aging and maintain or gain a desired level of health. What is healthy? Put simply, it’s keeping your mind and body in the kind of condition that doesn’t hold you back from doing anything you would like to do or to be. To kick off 2018, one idea might be to have each family member complete their own goal sheet, or decide on joint family goals. Think of it as a mini bucket list for the year. For each goal, include what it will take to make this happen. Sometimes old choices may need to shift a bit to make room for these goals. Here are some “hacks” that might help you on your journey to healthy: • Simplify Life. What “stuff” is crowding out life? Recycle, donate, gift or sell outgrown items. Your time is precious - spend it where it you think it will make the most difference. Maybe reconsider that TV binge watch because kids notice our choices. We are building and modeling their future habits. • Simplify Nutrition. We tend to think foods that are fast are unhealthy. Truly, eating well can be eating fast, especially if we plan ahead and keep eating simple. When you have pockets of time, build a couple “grab and go” meals that can keep your active family eating healthy even on the move. Planning for eating out helps prevent impulse purchases and can save both dollars and bonus calories. Choosing milk at meals and water in between builds bones and bank accounts.

• Simplify Fitness. In the hype of the extreme sport world, our fitness plan can still be simple and successful. The health benefits of walking more and taking the stairs if we are able cannot be overstated. The same can be said for building simple strength training into our regular routine for longterm bone health. Regardless of your scale, building an hour of movement into each day, even if it is broken into smaller pieces is the key to a vital, opportunity filled later life, because it changes how quickly our body ages. • Simplify Stress. Little stressors happen to us each day. How we choose to react to those situations is all about us. Build a mental toolbox of ways to positively channel stress and share them with your kids. For example, no matter how challenging a situation might be, we can typically think of three ways it could be worse. Sometimes naming those ways it could be worse can put the stressor in perspective and helps us find the positives in our situation. For kids, pay close attention to what they are telling you during walks or directly after school. Listen. School counselors and teachers can be great allies in helping kids learn healthy stress management. Here’s wishing you and your family a fantastic 2018!

Lincoln High School senior Cole Shank can ace most science quizzes. But ask him to explain in one sentence what he did last summer as part of a research internship at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

LHS student makes history with published research

Stumped. Finally, after a couple starts and stops: “Making magnetic materials that are suitable for spintronics applications, which is possibly the next frontier of electronics.” Shank was part of a small team of researchers - including a professor and college student who turned the results from their work into an article abstract published as part of the 62nd Annual Conference on Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, held recently in Pittsburgh. Shank is believed to be the first Lincoln High student to have scientific research published while still in high school. “It was really cool, just knowing our names would be included as part of this conference and seen by all those people,” said Shank, who plans on majoring in math and physics in college. It was the second summer that Shank interned at the Nebraska Center for Materials and Nanoscience. He mostly worked as a lab assistant the first summer; last summer he was more hands-on, working side by side with a student from South Dakota State University. Shank said the internship involved physics that would be found in upper-level undergraduate courses at the college level. He’s currently taking an International Baccalaureate Physics Higher Learning independent study course, taught by Lincoln High teacher Will Smith. “I’ve just been interested in physics for a long time,” Shank said.

January 2018 | Community News | Section A

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January 2018

Unified bowling: ‘One of the greatest moments of my life’

All six Lincoln Public Schools high schools recently finished another successful season of unified bowling, capped off by a second-place trophy at state for Lincoln High School and an award-worthy musical performance at the Lincoln Southwest High School team banquet. Unified sports pair students with disabilities (athletes) and without (partners) who compete together. At LPS, 47 athletes competed alongside 69 partners in bowling this season. The Lincoln High team of athletes Dylan Hartshorn and Abigail Parish, along with partners Mason Pierce, Brynna Madison and Dylan McLaughlan, finished second at the Nebraska School Activities Association state championship, held Dec. 4 at Sun Valley Lanes in Lincoln. “My team members are so supportive of each other during the school day and on the lanes,” said Lisa Thiessen, the Lincoln High coach and a teacher with the district’s Vocational Opportunity in Community Experience program. “They have become friends over the course of the six weeks.” The Lincoln Southwest team held its season-ending banquet on Dec. 6. One of the team’s coaches, English teacher Brandi Benson, praised the athletes and partners.

“You guys make my job easy. You make my job fun. And all you do is be yourselves,” she said. “Every single one of you played a huge part on the team this year. You’re all just unbelievable.” “So let me in, and if I cannot win, Then let me be brave in the attempt. I know it might be hard sometimes, But that don’t mean I give in. With all the joy and love that brings us together, When it’s all said and done, I’ve already won.”

One of the athletes, Elissa Fuelberth, said she will always treasure her experience with the team. “I love spending time with my unified bowling friends. You are all so amazing and I have really enjoyed bowling with all of you. All of us have learned a lot. Not only about bowling, but also about each other.” One of the partners, AJ Lacy, thanked Benson and the team’s other coach, School Resource Officer J. Fisher, for the opportunity to be part of such a special experience. “I just want to say that unified bowling is probably the greatest thing I’ve ever done at Southwest. I play softball and basketball, and this has been one of the greatest moments of my life the past two years,” Lacy said. At the end of the banquet, partner McKenzie Steiner performed a song she wrote that incorporates the Special Olympics pledge. Team members joined Steiner at the front of the room and sang along.

Catching the kindness bug at Lefler

They say kindness is contagious. If that’s the case, no one who works at Lefler Middle School is immune.

Erin Pauley, a speech pathologist at the school, said the kindness campaign was a great way to acknowledge selfless acts that are sometimes taken for granted. “It was anytime we saw someone go the extra mile - not doing something they have to, but they choose to,” she said.

During a recent 10-day span, Lefler staff participated in “Kindness Blitz,” which encouraged the recognition of coworkers who performed random acts of kindness. When someone “caught” a colleague doing anything that made Lefler a better place to be, they gave that person a t-shirt that read, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind - Lefler Middle School, Building a Community of Learners.” They took a photo of the person with the t-shirt and a “kindness card” they also received, which described their good deed. Then that person was required to repeat the same process with another co-worker within 24 hours. By the end, every staff member at Lefler was sporting a kindness t-shirt. Their photos and kindness cards were displayed in the staff lounge. The idea came from Jan McKeown, Lefler’s instructional technology coach. “In a climate like this, I think the most important statement is to take care of each other,” she said. “I don’t know how anyone can argue this.”

Here are a few examples from the kindness cards: “You have a natural ability to build relationships with students. Please never stop smiling everywhere you go.”

the kindness campaign was a great way to acknowledge selfless acts that are sometimes taken for granted

“I appreciate the patience and kindness you show to our kids and staff. Your calm demeanor is a great example for me.” “You are a perfect example of a kind person. I always know our students are in great hands when they are working with you. You model kindness in your everyday actions by responding quickly to student needs and coming up with ways to help and support even when it is hard.” Sixth-grade math and science teacher Adam Lempka said it wasn’t only Lefler staff who reaped the benefits of the “Kindness Blitz.” “The kids were wondering and asking what we were doing, so you get to have that conversation, as well,” he said.

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

LHS alum returns, shares inspiring story A Lincoln High School graduate who survived genocide in Cambodia before arriving in Nebraska has published a memoir about her experience - a harrowing tale that spans from an early childhood spent starving and separated from her family, to a career as an engineer in the aerospace and biotech industries.

Before visiting LHS she stopped by the apartment where her family lived, at 14th and F streets. Every school day, she walked from their apartment to LHS. In the winter, she cut through the Capitol on her way so she could warm up. She still remembers staring up at that building shortly after arriving in Lincoln.

Channy Laux spent two years at Lincoln High and graduated in 1982. During a visit to LHS on December 19, she grew emotional as she shared memories of the school with a roomful of students who, like her more than 35 years ago, are part of the English Language Learners (ELL) program.

“It was my Statue of Liberty, my Ellis Island,” Laux said.

“It’s special to share this with you - to a school that shared so much with me,” said Laux, who now lives in California. She recalled arriving in Lincoln after fleeing Cambodia, where the brutal Khmer Rouge regime seized control in the mid1970s. She and her family endured starvation, horrendous working conditions, illness and extended time apart. Laux details her childhood in Cambodia and the life that followed in her new book, “Short Hair Detention.” As part of her visit to LHS, five copies of the book were donated to the school’s library. Laux spoke no English when she enrolled at LHS. There were plenty of moments when she believed she would never graduate. She thanked her counselors and teachers - some of whom were in the audience December 19 - for their persistence. “They had their own, different agenda - they were going to make sure this girl finished high school,” Laux said.

a harrowing tale that spans from an early childhood spent starving and separated from her family, to a career as an engineer in the aerospace and biotech industries

After graduating from LHS, Laux went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s in Applied Mathematics from Santa Clara University. She worked for many years as an engineer in Silicon Valley, designing satellite systems and cockpits for F-16 and F-22 fighter jets. On December 19, Laux encouraged the ELL students in attendance to not allow language to be the barrier that holds them back. “I still don’t speak perfect English. It’s great if we do speak perfect English, but don’t let that slow you down.”

They had their own, different agenda - they were going to make sure this girl finished high school

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

French, German teachers honored as state’s best

NEW MAJOR

Sports Media & Communication

Teachers from Lincoln Public Schools have been honored as the state’s best for French and German. The Nebraska International Languages Association (NILA), in conjunction with the Nebraska Association of Teachers of French, named Lisa Maupin of Lincoln East High School the state’s French Teacher of the Year. NILA, along with the state’s association of German teachers, named Marissa Wanamaker of Lincoln High School the Nebraska German Teacher of the Year. Both announcements came Oct. 31 at NILA’s annual conference, held this year at Millard North High School in Omaha.

Teachers work

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very hard. We

W O R K on real projects and make a real impact.

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VISIT admissions.unl.edu/visit or contact Whitney Perry at wperry2@unl.edu

every day because our goal is to get our students to improve their

OUR MAJORS

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knowledge.

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“I am touched to have received this award,” Maupin said. “My thanks go out to my colleagues, whose constant support, encouragement and ideas sustain me. This award will inspire me to continue to find ways to reach every student, every day.”

Sports Media & Communication

Wanamaker said winning the award was a “complete shock - an amazing one.” She added, “Teachers work very hard. We do what we do every day because our goal is to get our students to improve their knowledge. We often come up with many ideas, strategies, compromises and a lot of hard work to do so. But we're not teachers for the praise we receive - we do it because it makes us feel good when one student ‘gets it.’”

University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/ nondiscrimination © 2017 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska. All rights reserved. 1708.006

Explore. Play. Create. Our Spark Summer Learning program brings energy and excitement to STEAM curriculum. Your child will dive into new discoveries (and new pools), get their hands dirty with our community partners (Nebraska Innovation Studio, BVH Architecture, UNL Nanoscience and more!) and see how FUN summer (learning) can be!

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10 weeks Program Hours 9am-4pm • full-time or part-time (MWF) FREE extended care 7am-9am and 4pm-6pm Four-weeks • Session 1 or 2 • We include lunch and transportation to and from Flexible drop-in weeks ALL 25 field trips! • All 10 weeks as available

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Robotics Coding

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Woodworking

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Animal Engineers - Bioengineering

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January 2018 | Community News | Section B

Thank You Lincoln!

As we wrap up 2017 and look toward 2018, we reflect on those whoâ€™ve advocated for us along our journey. In Lincoln we are very fortunate to have a community that stands behind our schools and supports public education. For that weâ€™d like to take a moment to say: Thank you Lincoln for supporting Lincoln Public Schools!

Huntington Elementary Thank you for hiring good people, making learning fun, our Chromebooks, all the books we have and great food. We like all the things you give us. Thank You! - Huntington Students Back Row: Gianna Malloy (5th Grade), Sedrick Huffman (4th Grade), Averi Gray (5th Grade), Davis Mbaga (4th Grade), Zyah Avig (5th Grade) Front Row: Donovan Durham (3rd Grade), Blanca Flores Guerrero (3rd Grade), Carter Hoegemeyer (5th Grade)

LPS Special Education Department Thank you Lincoln for supporting ALL students!

Scott Middle School We are thankful for a community that supports after school clubs! - Scott Middle School Photos and Prose

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

Social Emotional Learning leads to student success Everyone knows that students at Lincoln Public Schools learn reading, math and science. What many people don’t know is that students also learn how to understand and manage their emotions, how to feel and show empathy for others, and how to maintain positive relationships.

just a lot of potential with this when we’re being purposeful and strategic about it.” Research has proven that SEL leads to higher student success, including an 11 percent gain on standardized tests in math and reading. Not only that, but students who learn these skills early in life are more self-confident, empathetic and communicate better with others as adults.

Those are a few examples of Social Emotional Learning, or SEL, and that was the topic of the LPS Learning Lunch held Nov. 29 in the Board Room at LPS District Office. Carrie Erks, an LPS social worker, presented to a full room about SEL and how it’s incorporated into the district’s curriculum for students from preschool through seventh grade. Lincoln Public Schools realizes that success in the classroom and in life - depends on more than academics, which is where SEL comes in, Erks explained. LPS uses a curriculum called “Second Step” to teach SEL. It teaches four main areas:

“It’s not just for children, it’s for adults,” Erks said. “This is something we all need to be working on - lifelong.” Carrie Erks, LPS social worker

We know children with

• Skills for learning • Empathy • Emotion management • Problem solving

these skills are

“We know children with these skills are more likely to get along with others, be empathetic, be less aggressive and be able to communicate well,” Erks said, later adding, “There’s

get along with

more likely to

LPS has been teaching SEL at the preschool level since 1999. In 2015, thanks to a grant, the district began incorporating it into the curriculum for kindergarten through seventh grade. At the end of her presentation, Erks showed a video featuring two parents of LPS kindergarten students who have witnessed the positive effects of Social Emotional Learning. “I really do think it makes a difference,” said one of the parents, who also is an LPS preschool teacher. “I’ve seen my students use it in the classroom as well as my daughter using it at home.”

others

LPS celebrates Scottish Rite Teacher of the Year Every fall Lincoln Public Schools gathers together and officially honors the latest winner of the Scottish Rite Distinguished Teacher of the Year, and in November the school district recognized Jan McKeown, instructional technology coach at Lefler Middle School.

a student has left my care, I still occupy a little space in their heart…and that’s fitting, because they still occupy a space in mine.” Bruce Wood, from Lincoln Scottish Rite, said the Scottish Rite is committed to this award now and into the future. The prestigious honor is presented annually, and comes with a cash prize of $5,000.

“This is a highlight of the year for Lincoln Public Schools,” said LPS Superintendent Steve Joel. “This award is about all the things we do in the classroom…An honor with the highest of distinction.” Lanny Boswell, president of the Lincoln Board of Education, continued: “I love this tradition … a moment we pause and celebrate our fine educators and the magnitude of their work.” He noted that McKeown is the perfect recipient of this honor: • She has an educator’s heart and soul. • She is an exemplary coach, leader and role model.

• She is a person who believes the secret of good teaching – is caring enough to bring her “A” game every day. • She is a teacher of all teachers…She inspires, advocates, motivates… McKeown said that she wanted to share what she called an essay about

gratitude: “I am so fortunate, I have worked in great schools with talented teachers and have learned from every single one…My career has been a journey…and receiving this award has been the greatest professional honor of my life….I see this as our Academy Award.”

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McKeown began her teaching career with LPS at Clinton Elementary School 32 years ago, and has since taught at Humann and Meadow Lane elementary schools, and now Lefler. “I believe it is a great honor to be a teacher,” she said. “We may not know our influence in the moment, but it is vast… It is sobering that years after

Boswell said the award serves as a symbol, “representing the many, many outstanding educators in our school district – and continuing the tradition handed down by many teachers before them. Jan serves as a terrific representative of and ambassador for Lincoln Public Schools … reminding us – once again – to value all that is good in our public schools today. “This award stands as testimony to the impact educators have on our future, our community, our country. What a powerful reminder of the rich tradition of excellence at Lincoln Public Schools.”

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

LPS Learning Lunch: ‘Restoring Calm’ When you say “school crisis,” most people think of the impact of community violence, a serious accident, a natural disaster. But the more common crisis situation at Lincoln Public Schools – when schools most often need extra support and attention – is the death of a student or staff member, according to Brenda Leggiadro, LPS supervisor for Counselors and Social Workers, and Ursula Vernon-Hansen, facilitator of the LPS Crisis Response Team, speaking Dec. 19 at the latest LPS Learning Lunch. “That is probably the most impactful situation we see in our buildings, when students need support in dealing with grief,” according to Leggiadro, speaking to the topic: Restoring Calm: LPS Response to Crisis. “When we send our Crisis Response Team into a school we are looking to re-establish a sense of safety and restore the learning environment,” she explained. “We are there to provide a calm presence and find a way for the school to return to normal…

LPS Learning Lunches are open to the Lincoln community. The rest of the 2017-18 season:

LPS Learning Lunches are open to the Lincoln community.

• Tuesday, Jan. 23: Success with our Scholars, featuring LPS students and Pete Ferguson, coordinator, LPS Youth Development Team. • Tuesday, Feb. 27: Kids vs. adults in LPS Spelling Bee, LPS Spelling Bee champions compete with LPS employees, Mindy Murphy, curriculum specialist, Secondary English Language Arts. • Tuesday, March 27: Developing Young Men and Women, featuring Huntington Elementary School children and Rik Devney, Huntington principal. • Tuesday, April 24: A Great Year of Achievement, highlighting LPS special education programs at Sherrill, Nuernberger and Yankee Hill Education Centers – Jane Stavem, associate superintendent of Instruction at LPS. • Tuesday, May 15: Making Music, UKE can do it! Come try your musical talents with ukuleles, Lance Nielsen, curriculum specialist for Music at LPS.

“But you must understand that, working with children in grief, responses vary dramatically according to age, developmental level, relationship with the person who died, and other traumatic events in a child’s life.” Leggiadro described the major characteristics of a crisis as: • Extremely negative, “something devastating, something that gives you a pit-in-your stomach feeling” • Unpredictable, takes you by surprise, catches you off guard • Uncontrollable • Wide impact (not just an individual event, but something that impacts the entire school) When a significant crisis event occurs, LPS administrators first determine the level of response needed and who should be involved, Vernon-Hansen said. Then the Crisis Response Team will develop a plan for the level of response, providing factual information to students and families, using clear language about what occurred. Team members will often schedule a staff meeting, work with the teachers in an impacted student’s classes, and provide staff with ideas for dealing with students during a crisis. Follow-up is essential, both Leggiadro and Vernon-Hansen agreed. If a child is exhibiting significant behaviors – such as acting irritable, withdrawn, anxious, etc. – then the family will be provided with information on community resources.

2018 Bryan Health

Indoor Triathlon Saturday, January 27 First wave begins at 6:30 a.m. A new wave begins every 25 minutes. This indoor triathlon event is a great way to introduce yourself to the sport, and is for all ages and fitness levels. The total triathlon event will be 75 minutes: If you aren’t comfortable doing this alone find two friends and compete as a team. Team categories are all male, all female and coed. • 10-minute swim in lap pool • 10-minute transition • 30-minute bike on spin bike

• 5-minute transition • 20-minute run on treadmill

Cost: $25, individual; $75, team Where: Bryan LifePointe Campus • 7501 S. 27th St. To register: Go to bryanhealth.org/triathlon

Kids welcome to participate!

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

ADVENTURE CAMP EARLY BIRD PRICES: Available January 5th -March 16th

$199 $179 - Members $219 $199 - Non-Members

FULL WEEK CAMP SCHEDULE Grade Levels: Pre-K*, K-4th

*Child must have completed the grade.

Registration Begins January 5th! Epic Adventure

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June 4th – June 8th

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Crime Scene Investigation

Mad Scientist

June 11th – June 15th

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To Infinity and Beyond

Weather Watchers

June 18th – June 22nd

Be an Engineer

June 25th – June 29th

Water Power

July 9th – July 13th

July 30th – August 3rd

Hollywood Star

August 6th – August 10th *Please check our website for full camp details

LincolnChildrensMuseum.org

EVERY KID DESERVES FAMILY

WOULD YOU CONSIDER BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT? Every day, there are children in need of a loving foster home right here in our community. Will you be the one to help?

Helping Kids in Crisis. Building Strong Families. 402-436-5437 | www.cedarskids.org

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

LNE Junior ROTC: Wreaths Across America Members of the Lincoln Northeast High School Junior ROTC participated in the annual Wreaths Across America event honoring veterans on Dec. 16 at Wyuka Cemetery. As part of Wreaths Across America, people across the country laid wreaths at the gravestones of veterans. The Wyuka event featured a short ceremony, followed by the laying of wreaths in the military section of the cemetery.

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

January Breakfast Menu MONDAY 1 No School - Winter Break

8 Mini Maple Waffles Mini Cinnamon Waffles Apple Cinn. Cheerios Cereal

15 No School

22 Mini Chocolate Chip French Toast Apple Cinn. Cheerios Cereal

29 Mini Maple Waffles Mini Cinnamon Waffles Apple Cinn. Cheerios Cereal

TUESDAY 2 No School - Winter Break

9 Breakfast Burrito Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

16 Egg & Cheese Sandwich Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

23 Chicken Sausage Biscuit Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

30 Breakfast Burrito Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

WEDNESDAY 3 No School - Winter Break

10 Cinnamon Pancake Sandwich Cocoa Puffs Cereal

17 Chicken Sausage Pancake Sandwich Cocoa Puffs Cereal

24 Cheese Omelet Pita Pocket Cocoa Puffs Cereal

THURSDAY 4 No School - Winter Break

FRIDAY 5 No School - Winter Break

Turkey Sausage Breakfast Bites Cherry Frudel Frosted Flakes Cereal Apple Frudel Trix Cereal

18 Mini Bagels Frosted Flakes Cereal

19 Mini Cinnis Trix Cereal Yogurt

Pancake & Turkey Sausage on a stick Frosted Flakes Cereal

Breakfast Bar Trix Cereal Yogurt

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

31 Cinnamon Pancake Sandwich Cocoa Puffs Cereal

January Elementary Lunch Menu MONDAY 1 No School - Winter Break

8 Popcorn Chicken Country Beef Sandwich Black Bean Salsa Burger Salad

15 No School

22 Chicken Fingers with Biscuit Sloppy Joe Teriyaki Burger Salad

29 Popcorn Chicken Country Beef Sandwich Black Bean Salsa Burger Salad

TUESDAY 2 No School - Winter Break

9 Muchos Nachos Cheese Ravioli in Marinara Sauce Salad

16 Soft Shell Beef Taco Breaded Pork Sandwich Cheesy Taco Salad

23 Taco Crunch with Baked Scoops Pepperoni Pizza Bean & Cheese Burrito Salad

30 Muchos Nachos Cheese Ravioli in Marinara Sauce Salad

WEDNESDAY 3 No School - Winter Break

10 Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Hamburger Pizza Crustless Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich with Mozzarella Cheese Stick Salad

17 Orange Chicken on Brown Rice Personal 3 Meat Pizza Falafel with Brown Rice Salad

24 Creamy Mac & Cheese Grilled Chicken Nuggets Hummus with Mozzarella Cheese Stick & Baked Scoops Salad

4 No School - Winter Break

11 Creamed Turkey & Whipped Potatoes Salisbury Steak Southwest Pizza Salad

18 Spaghetti & Meat Sauce Mexi Pizza Spaghetti & Marinara Sauce Salad

5 No School - Winter Break

12 Corn Puppies Grilled Cheese Sandwich Grilled Mozzarella Cheese Sandwich Salad

19 French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links or Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Cheeseburger Salad

BBQ Chicken w/ Cinnamon Roll Cheese Pizza Salad

Breaded Chicken Sandwich Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks with Marinara Sauce Salad

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

31 Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Hamburger Pizza Crustless Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich with Mozzarella Cheese Stick Salad

January Secondary Lunch Menu MONDAY 1 No School - Winter Break

8 Popcorn Chicken Country Beef Sandwich French Bread Garlic Pizza Black Bean Salsa Burger Salad

15 No School

22 Chicken Fingers with Biscuit Sloppy Joe Southwest Fiesta Bowl Teriyaki Burger Salad

29 Popcorn Chicken Country Beef Sandwich French Bread Garlic Pizza Black Bean Salsa Burger Salad

TUESDAY 2 No School - Winter Break

9 Muchos Nachos Cheese Ravioli in Marinara Sauce Cuban Panini Salad

16 Soft Shell Beef Taco Breaded Pork Sandwich Sub Sandwich Cheesy Taco Salad

23 Taco Crunch with Baked Scoops Pepperoni Pizza Hot & Spicy Chicken Sandwich Bean & Cheese Burrito Salad

30 Muchos Nachos Cheese Ravioli in Marinara Sauce Cuban Panini Salad

WEDNESDAY 3 No School - Winter Break

10 Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Hamburger Pizza Nebraska Bun Crustless Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich with Mozzarella Cheese Stick Salad

17 Orange Chicken on Brown Rice Personal 3 Meat Pizza Sriracha Fish Sandwich Falafel with Brown Rice Salad

24 Creamy Mac & Cheese Grilled Chicken Nuggets Cheeseburger Paradise Hummus with Mozzarella Cheese Stick & Baked Scoops Salad

31 Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Hamburger Pizza Nebraska Bun Crustless Soybutter & Jelly Sandwich with Mozzarella Cheese Stick Salad

4 No School - Winter Break

11 Creamed Turkey & Whipped Potatoes Salisbury Steak Buffalo Chicken Tenders Southwest Pizza Salad

18 Spaghetti & Meat Sauce Mexi Pizza Chicken Strips Spaghetti & Marinara Sauce Salad

25 BBQ Chicken w/ Cinnamon Roll Chili w/ Cinnamon Roll Cheese Pizza Salad

5 No School - Winter Break

12 Corn Puppies Grilled Cheese Sandwich Turkey Pepperoni & Sausage Calzone Grilled Mozzarella Cheese Sandwich Salad

19 French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links or Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Cheeseburger Chicken Taquitos Salad

26 Breaded Chicken Sandwich Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks with Marinara Sauce Fish Sandwich Salad

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

B10

January 2018 TeamMates of the Month:

Feeling an Instant Connection with a Hand-Picked Match One goal TeamMates mentors have is to continue to meet with their mentee until they graduate high school. But there are times when a mentor changes careers or moves and is not able to continue meeting with their mentee. That is exactly what happened with Heidi’s first mentor, Jeanie, whom she had been meeting with for three years. Once Jeanie knew she was no longer able to continue mentoring, she took it upon herself to recruit a new mentor for Heidi. Jeanie’s coworker Becky was looking for ways to get involved in the community, and when she heard Jeanie was looking for someone to mentor Heidi, she applied to be a mentor. After training and interviewing with the TeamMates facilitator, Becky was able to meet with Heidi, and it turned out the two were a great match. “I was sad Jeanie was leaving, but it wasn’t a drastic change to someone who was the polar opposite,” says Heidi. “I felt an instant connection.” “I could tell she enjoyed mentoring so much,” recalls Becky. “I felt some pride in being able to take over her legacy.”

New Year’s Resolutions:

2015: Read a book a week 2016: Go to gym more 2017: Eat healthier food 2018: ???

ould be bigger

sh My resolution

This year, why not make a resolution that will last a lifetime?

✓ Become a Mentor!! ✓ Fill out online application ✓ Attend a training session ✓ Start Mentoring

than just me

THANKS FOR SUPPORTING NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH Go online to learn more about mentoring today:

www.LincolnTeamMates.org/LearnMore

Heidi just had stacks of pictures so we organized them and she got to tell me stories about people. One of the first things Becky wanted to do was learn Heidi’s family tree. Heidi is the youngest in a very large family and is also an aunt, so it was important for Becky to be able to keep everyone straight as Heidi shared stories. One way they did this was by making a scrapbook together. “Heidi just had stacks of pictures so we organized them and she got to tell me stories about people.” Heidi has received several honors during her time at Lincoln Northeast High School. She made honor roll the past two semesters and was an inaugural inductee into the National Business Honor Society. Members of the National Business Honor Society applied and were chosen based on their determination, responsibility, dependability and commitment. Heidi invited Becky to attend her honor roll recognition rally and National Business Honor Society induction ceremony. “I figured that I wanted someone there because it was a big deal and she’s been there through everything.” As a senior, Heidi is thinking about and planning for college. She doesn’t want to be in the same situation she has seen with others who earn a college degree, but do not have a career that utilizes that degree. “I want to go to college because I want to further my education in something I can use. I want to be an interior designer and photographer.” Becky is helping Heidi with her scholarship applications and also offers her advice. She reminds Heidi about the importance of a college education, and “that even though others may not be using the degree they earned, they are still using things they learned.” They have shared many fun memories together over the years, including the time they attended a Saltdogs game as members of the TeamMates “24 or More” Club. Becky even volunteered them to take part in different activities, like catching giant popcorn balls, between innings. But they are looking forward to the memories they have yet to make together. In February, they will be matched for five years and plan to celebrate their milestone by attending the annual TeamMates Recognition Event. As they reflect on their time together, the lessons they’ve learned and the memories they’ve shared, Becky says, “On paper it looks like such a big commitment, but it has flown by. It is an experience that will change your life.”

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

B11

Backstage at the Ballet “Backstage at the Ballet” is an artist-in-residence program sponsored by the Lincoln Midwest Ballet Guild. This year, artists from the Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company spent the first week in December at Cavett Elementary School. The company hosted three learning stations for each class that provided handson experience in costuming, make-up and choreography. On the last day of the residency, dancers from the ballet company performed excerpts from “The Nutcracker” for the entire school.

January 2018 | Community News | Section B

B12

TAFK.org