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March 2019

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SECTION A: A2 LPS is... A5 TeamMates of the Month A6 Radar lessons Science bowl teams go to nationals A8 ConnectLPS A11 Schools celebrate Black History Month

Lux eighth-grader wins third LPS Spelling Bee Eswar Ramamurthy, an eighth-grader at Lux Middle School, won the 32nd annual Lincoln Public Schools Oral Spelling Bee on Feb. 9. He also won in 2016 and 2017, making him the first three-time winner.

Riley students name quintuplet goats B11 Focus program explores hip hop B12 Kids Corner B13 Menus B14 LPS Annual Report

“Oh my gosh I was so nervous,” Singh said. “I am so happy.”

LPS co-sponsors the spelling bee with the Lincoln Journal Star.

B1 Predicting the future with math B6 CLCs premiere makerspace

He was among nearly 70 students in grades five through eight who competed in the spelling bee, held at Culler Middle School. Advait Singh, a sixth-grader at Scott Middle School, placed second, while Pound Middle School seventh-grader Eleanor Braatz came in third.

“We always support each other. I root for him and he roots for me,” Eswar said.

SECTION B:

B2 Wellness columns

“I think it’s good I went out with a bang,” said Ramamurthy, who will attend Lincoln East High School next year.

Ramamurthy’s winning word was “flauta,” a tortilla rolled tightly around a filling of some kind and deep-fried. It’s actually the fourth year in a row that a Ramamurthy has won; his brother, Sankar, won last year.

A14 Teacher aims to sub at, photgraph every school

Some examples of words from this year’s competition: • • • •

Balustrade Unguent Vicarage Marjoram

• • • •

Gypsum Hackneyed Oleander Habitus

Lincoln Public Schools: In One Word Creating thought-provoking masterpiece artwork and essays, composing a stirring musical number, finding the solution to a perplexing math problem, investigating the “why” to enhance understanding... Lincoln Public Schools students and teachers are proving every day why LPS is...Innovative. The close of third quarter is a time when we often see students showcasing the results of their hard work. Science fair projects are on display. Senior capstone projects are almost finished. Theatre productions come to life on the stage. Musicians practice countless hours for final concerts. Studio artists are displaying their art pieces in galleries both locally and nationally. And standing right beside these students, pushing them further than they ever thought possible, are LPS educators: the teachers, counselors, administrators and other caring adults in their life. These are just some of the reasons that in March, our stories will reflect why LPS is… Innovative. This past summer we posed a question to our community, our families, our staff and our students – describe Lincoln Public Schools in one, single word. Each month we will reveal a new word that describes LPS. For more, visit our website: lps.org/is

Are your kids members of Bryan Kids’ Club? It’s FREE for children age 12 and younger! Helping children understand why it’s important to establish healthy habits is important to Bryan Health. Our Kids’ Club was created to get children excited about exercise and nutrition and to provide opportunities for families to be active. Benefits: • Kids’ Club T-shirt and membership card • Quarterly newsletters filled with health tips and activities • Quarterly events, including the annual Home Run for Health at Haymarket Park • Advance notice of all Bryan Health seminars and events for families and parents with young children • Coupons from Bryan Health partners, such as the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Wellness Recovery Action Plan ® (WRAP ) Youth Groups This voluntary support group helps you create a plan that is individualized for your needs, self-directed to achieve your goals and empowering. You’ll create a plan that includes: • A wellness toolbox • Daily maintenance plan • Triggers that can set you back and actions to avoid them • Early warning signs and action plan • What to do when things break down and action plan • Crisis plan • Post crisis plan Through this support group, you’ll learn new skills and how to use them in your recovery journey. If you have questions, please call 402-432-0158.

Youth Group Information: For ages 14-18 When: Meets Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. Where: Bryan West Campus, Counseling Center, 2300 S. 16th St. - Enter through the Bryan Medical Center main entrance. - Take immediate left to reach connecting hallway to the Professional Office Building. - Groups meet on the third floor in the Counseling Center Group Rooms 310. Cost: Free Registration: No registration required

KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION Wednesday, March 6, 2019, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 7, 2019, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

NEW THIS YEAR: Register for kindergarten online by going to lps.org and clicking on Enroll Your Student. This online registration will open January 1, 2019. OR For parents not able to register online Lincoln Public Schools will hold two days of registration in the schools for students who will begin kindergarten the following fall. During registration the paperwork necessary for enrollment in Lincoln Public Schools will be completed. Registration is held at all elementary schools.

Parents/guardians should register their child at the school in their boundary area. Child need not be present. Families who wish to have their child enroll at an LPS school outside of their attendance area should fill out a Special Attendance Permit which is available at any school or on our website. Questions about kindergarten registration should be directed to the school your child will attend. When registering at the school, you must bring your childâ€™s certified birth certificate and current immunization record. When registering online you must upload your childâ€™s certified birth certificate and current immunization record.

March 2019 | Community News | Section A

March TeamMates of the Month

Larry and Jamil: Judgment Suspended Jamil, a seventh-grader at Lefler Middle School, sits back in his chair, thinking. Before he answers any questions, there is a pause. In his mind he is sifting through ideas to get just the right sentiment before he speaks a word. His TeamMate, Larry, has learned to adjust to this quietness before speech. “There’s a depth to Jamil. I am learning to be patient in teasing it out,” Larry says. At the beginning of their match, the two talked little, but they began a weekly tradition that stands to the present: each meeting Jamil and Larry begin with a firm handshake and eye contact. The meeting ends with the same practice. On one occasion, Jamil heard the bell and left quickly without the usual handshake, but Larry was impressed when he returned seconds later to look him in the eye and offer his hand. Over the course of their several years as TeamMates, Larry has noticed positive changes in Jamil. “He’s grown in his willingness to open up. At the beginning, games helped us to connect.” Their favorite games include chess, solitaire and hangman. Another favorite activity for the match is chatting about their favorite NBA teams. As time passes, they are also discussing subjects important to Jamil: racial issues, respect for his mother and the importance of graduating from high school.

“I try to live life to the fullest,” says Jamil in his thoughtful manner. Larry has helped him to try new things and think about how life sometimes goes how we want and often how it doesn’t. Jamil enjoys Larry’s stories about life and the facts that he shares with him. The favorite lesson Jamil has learned from his mentor is, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Larry has demonstrated a non-judgmental attitude that has impressed his mentee. Larry’s kindness is another attribute that Jamil admires in his mentor. The admiration goes both ways. Jamil’s respect for his mother and his willingness to grow are two things Larry appreciates in Jamil, and his praise for his mentee continues. “Jamil is smart, focused and he’s learned the importance of school and graduating,” he says. Larry is also very proud of what Jamil chose to write on the duct tape bag the two made for a recent TeamMates community service project. “Jamil picked out the saying and wrote it on the bag himself,” Larry says. Jamil’s message speaks to the relationship he has with his mentor: “’Stay’ is a charming word in a friend’s vocabulary.” And “stay” is exactly what Larry and Jamil plan to do in their future friendship.

Only $25 deposit* required to sign-up. TM

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Camp day is 7:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. 130 per week per child.

Extended session options for $10/week/child.

Non-refundable deposit required for each child per session to reserve a spot.

Grades 2–8 Session 1

June 3–7

Session 2

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Session 3

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June 24–28

no camp JULY 1–5 Session 5

July 8–12

Session 6

July 15–19

Session 7

July 22–26

Session 8

July 29–Aug. 2

Husker Kids is grades 2-6. Husker Adventures is grades 7–8.

A service of the Office of Student Affairs. 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.

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March 2019 | Community News | Section A

Irving students learn hands-on science lesson from SRO Sarah Gergen’s eighth-grade science students at Irving Middle School are learning about measuring the motion of objects - speed, velocity, acceleration - as well as electromagnetic energy and the electromagnetic spectrum. On a recent afternoon, they witnessed a real-world application of those lessons, thanks to a surprise visitor to their classroom. “So who here thought they were going to listen to me today?” asked Irving School Resource Officer Andrew Nichols. Nichols took a break from his usual duties - which are split between Irving and Pound Middle School - to visit Gergen’s classroom and talk about lidar and radar guns and how they’re used to measure the speed of passing vehicles. After a short time inside, Nichols, Gergen and the students moved outside to the corner of Van Dorn and S. 23rd streets. Donning yellow vests and standing safely off the street, students took turns clocking passing vehicles with both a radar and a lidar gun. Most drivers adhered to the 35 miles-per-hour speed limit - or they did once they saw Nichols and the students. Gergen used the same lesson years ago when she taught at Lefler Middle School, but on a much smaller scale with toy cars. She thought this life-size version was even better. “The students seemed to enjoy the opportunity and certainly learned about the technology to record speed. In the future, I look forward to the opportunity to develop the lesson even further - perhaps for the students to have a chance to speculate and explore how the radar and lidar guns might work without researching, share their ideas, then later research the technology,” Gergen said. One of the students, Raquel, said the lesson was very helpful. “I liked using the radar gun because you got to see how it worked and you can’t really learn that in a textbook.” Another student, Grant, also learned a lot from the hands-on lesson. “I learned about the path that the radio waves take and the path that the light of the laser takes. The lidar travels in a straight line, but the radar spreads out and bounces back to give you the speed.” Gergen also appreciated another lesson the students learned. “Specifically, for students to be able to work with Officer Nichols and enjoy him as a resource for something other than safety and security.”

East, Lux science bowl teams advance to nationals Multiple teams from Lincoln Public Schools competed in state-level science bowls recently, with teams from Lux Middle School and Lincoln East High School placing first and advancing to the national competition in Washington, D.C. in April. Lux won the middle school Nebraska Science Bowl on Feb. 2 at Wayne State College, as well as the Team Civility award, which is given to a team that demonstrates good sportsmanship, composure in team competition and efforts to encourage other teams. Lux team members are Sankar Ramamurthy, Eswar Ramamurthy, Cole Welstead, Saket Reddy and Zach Jacobsen. They’re coached by Jack Sunderman. Teams from Lux, Goodrich, Mickle, Moore and Schoo middle schools joined 35 other schools from across the state in the competition. In addition to Lux’s victory, Moore placed third. East High beat out 23 other teams to win the high school Nebraska Science Bowl on Feb. 9, also at Wayne State College. East’s team consists of Isaac Zhang, Ian Meyer, Andrzej Korlacki, Neeraj Kadubandi Ian Orchard. They’re coached by Brianna Paswaters and Frances Siddoway. James Blake, LPS K-12 science curriculum specialist, applauded all of the LPS teams who competed. "As the world changes to new technologies - driverless cars, cures for disease, robotics - we have an ever increasing pace of global innovation driven by advanced technology, which challenges the educational system provide new opportunities,” Blake said. “LPS Science Curriculum and Instruction appreciates events like this that provide talent development for students who have a strong interest in STEM. I am very thankful for the LPS teacher volunteers, the students and the parents that support these competitors.”

swer questions during the competition, students must possess an in-depth knowledge of science and math. Questions come in pairs: toss-up questions and bonus questions. Contestants on both teams have an equal opportunity to answer toss-up questions by pressing a buzzer when they have an answer. No conferring among team members is permitted on toss-up questions. Answering a toss-up question correctly permits that team to then work together to answer a bonus question.

Teams consist of four students and an alternate. To an-

The U.S. Department of Energy covers the cost of qualifying teams traveling to Washington, D.C.

.'9 ?5;8 )./2* +>6+8/+4)+* 6++8 </):/3/@':/54% What is peer victimization? Peer victimization refers to any behavior by one or more kids your child’s age that is intended to be mean. This could include things like physical aggression, spreading rumors, teasing, sending mean messages online, exclusion, bullying, or any other hurtful behavior targeting your child.

What is Project SPaRK? Project SPaRK is a research study about how parents respond to finding out their child has experienced peer victimization and how families talk to their child about these situations. Ultimately, the goal is to help build clear, evidence-based guidelines for parents regarding how they can best help their child manage peer relationship problems in healthy ways.

WE ARE SEEKING FAMILIES TO PARTICPATE IN A RESEARCH STUDY

What is required? Families choose a time to come to our research lab on the University of Nebraska – Lincoln’s City Campus. During this visit, family members complete surveys, participate in interviews where they can share their thoughts and feelings about peer victimization, and spend time talking and completing activities together. Free on-site babysitting is available for siblings. Families receive up to $90 for their time.

For additional information and scheduling, parents can:

Call our office at (402) 472-1002

Who is eligible?

Email us at spark@unl.edu For more general information about our lab, please visit https://cehs.unl.edu/martin-lab/

In order to participate, families MUST: • Have a child between the ages of 10 and 16 who has experienced peer victimization at least once in the past two years • Be able to speak and understand English

NatureWorks Camps at PRAIRIE HILL LEARNING CENTER CHILDREN AND NATURE TOGETHER SINCE 1981

Summer Camps for Ages 6-12 Various Camps from June 3 to August 2, 2019 One-Week Camps: $190 (ages 6-12) Two-Week Camps: $380 (ages 6-9) // $395 (ages 10-12)

Choose from our variety of camps including Animal Encounters, Music Variety, Art & Building and Pioneer Days. Each camp includes pony riding, gardening, singing, walks in the pasture and woods, animal care, exploration, picnics and more.

Mini Camps for Ages 3-6 Session I: June 18-21 & June 25-28 Session II: July 9-12 & 16-19 Session III: July 23-26 & July 30-August 2 Each session includes eight days, Tues. - Fri. 9AM to 12:30PM Price Per Session: $315

Your child will enjoy a rich, natural PRAIRIE HILL experience through gardening, leisurely walks in the pasture, egggathering, pony rides, building shelters in the woods, singing, stories, and much more. A lunch from home will taste delicious in the shade of our picnic area!

4 miles south of Saltillo Road on Highway 77

March 2019 | Community News | Section A

ConnectLPS

Here’s some of our favorite photos from LPS schools in September. Want more? Connect with your school’s social media at lps.org/connect.

Lincoln Public Schools District Office

District Office employees took to a homemade photo booth to share what they love about our school system.

Lefler Middle School

Prescott Elementary School

“Lefler Latinas enjoy the 2019 Latina Leadership Conference.”

“Second grade party fun!”

Schoo Middle School

“Students in Ms. Phillip’s social studies class celebrated the 210th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. The festivities included singing happy birthday to President Lincoln, eating birthday cake and rice krispy treats on his behalf, playing ‘pin the top hat on Abe Lincoln,’ and finish class with Kevin Hart’s Guide to Black History.”

March 2019 | Community News | Section A

Clinton Elementary School

“Third grade had an exciting week and a wonderful end to our embryology unit. We welcomed 33 baby chicks into our classrooms! They will be heading back to the farm. We have enjoyed them and are sad to see them go. What a fun way to learn about life cycles!

Cavett Elementary School

Calvert Elementary School

“Mrs. Halverson’s fifth grade class enjoying Morrill Hall.”

“Hey, Mrs. Clements, we’re all missing the same teeth!”

Lincoln Southeast High School Annual Nite Of Knights

Adams Elementary School

“An evening spent playing with our Early Childhood families. Making cards, graphing hearts, reading books, a special treat, and a super fun obstacle course. Thank you for joining us, families!

FUN WITH A

SPLASH OF CONFIDENCE

Swim Lessons • Gymnastics Aquatic Conditioning Youth Fitness Training and MORE! Spring Youth Program registration begins March 19. For more information and to register, visit ymcalincoln.org

DO FROM DAY ONE. LEARN FROM INNOVATORS IN THEIR FIELD. WORK ON REAL PROJECTS AND MAKE A REAL IMPACT. COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF. Schedule a visit or contact our recruitment coordinator, Whitney Jurgens: admissions.unl.edu/visit | wjurgens@unl.edu OUR MAJORS Advertising & Public Relations Broadcasting Journalism Sports Media & Communication

University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination © 2018 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska. All rights reserved. 1808.16

March 2019 | Community News | Section A

A11

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

SCHOO STUDENT GROUP SPREADS MESSAGE OF ACCEPTANCE Members of a student club at Schoo Middle School are celebrating Black History Month by spreading its message of awareness and acceptance of diversity. “We work on helping everyone realize that there are a lot of different cultures. We’re trying to embrace that in this club,” said Feryal, a seventh-grader and a member of the group Diversity Leaders. Throughout February, the students are spearheading numerous activities as part of Black History Month: • They’re researching local African-American heroes and one of the students reads a short

biography of the person during morning announcements. The club’s sponsor, counselor Mary Schuster-Graff, said the students have drawn on research done by Lincoln Journal-Star columnist Cindy Lange-Kubick as part of her series of columns in February that feature prominent local African-Americans. • They’ve displayed photos of the African-American heroes in the school library, along with their research so other students can read about them. • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. popularized the idea of living in a “beloved community,” which he envisioned as a society centered on justice, equal opportunity and love of

one's fellow human beings. Members of Diversity Leaders are honoring that vision by asking students and staff to perform specific daily acts of kindness. One of the club’s members, sixth-grader Malique, said Tuesday’s act of kindness was to “ask someone what their dream is and tell them to go for it.” The club’s members have lofty goals but they’re determined to make a difference, said Arac, a seventh-grader. “If we have a club that shows everyone and their diversity, maybe everyone will start accepting them.”

EVENT HONORS CONTRIBUTIONS OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN AUTHORS Lincoln Public Schools hosted an African-American Read-In event on Feb. 7, featuring LPS staff, students and community members reading and performing excerpts from African-American literature and sharing stories about the authors and their work. The hour-long event, held in conjunction with Lincoln City Libraries, explored African-American history and the contributions of African-Americans in the world of literature and the arts. It’s part of a nationwide literacy initiative during Black History Month, with similar events happening across the country. Reading and speaking at the event were: • Shanna Letcher, LPS student advocate for the African-American community, and Michael Hunter Jr., LPS district transition specialist • Linda Anderson, receptionist, Lincoln North Star High School • Joy Harvey, LPS library media services coordinator • DaWon Baker, diversity and inclusion director, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Athletic Department • Marshawna Kapke, student and speech team member at North Star • Wendy Hunt, assistant director of diversity and inclusion, Nebraska Wesleyan University • TRACKS Empowerment Scholars, Belmont Elementary School • Tosh Jock, LPS bilingual liaison • William Bryant, LPS student advocate for the African-American community • Brenda Ealey, Lincoln City Libraries

GET OUT. BE ACTIVE. HAVE FUN!

EXPLORE

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ation. 441-7952 for more inform Call the center or (402) N from Join us for summer FU

19 May 28 - August 9, 20 M Weekdays • 7AM - 6P Grades

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3720 NW 46th St. 1234 Judson St. & Vine Bethany Park 66th Air Park Belmont

Calvert F Street Goodrich Irving McPhee

4500 Stockwell 1225 “F” St. 1234 Judson St. 2010 Van Dorn St. 820 Goodhue

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K-5 K-4 K-5 K-4, 5-7 K-5 5-7 K-4, 5-7 K-5

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DISCOVER THE WILD IN LINCOL

N AT

NATURE CAMPS!

Summer Nature Day Camps for youth aged 3-17 years! Register today for Camp Discovery (ages 3-6), Wilderness Nature Camp (ages 6-13) or Leadership Camp (ages 14-17). Call the Pio neers Park Nature Center at (402 ) 441-7895 for more information . Register today at parks.lincoln.n e.gov (key word: Nature Camps)

Camp Discovery

(402) 441-7952

Dates: June 3- July 18 Days: Mon - Thurs Time: 9 - 11:30 AM Fee: $90/wk Ages: 3 - 6

ord: day camp). s.lincoln.ne.gov (keyw

rk Register online at pa

TEAM BUILDING

Leadership Camp

Different themes each week will introduce your young child to the natural world. Campers will learn through outdoor exploration, craf ts, and nature games.

June 3-7, 2019 • 8:30 AM - 5 PM Ages: 14-17 yrs Learn outdoor and leadership skills through team-building and outdoor education. Following Leaders hip Camp, attendees may have the opportunity to volunteer during Wilderness Nature Camp as Junior Counselors. Registe r by May 17. Fee: $150.

ADVE NTUR ES WITH FRIEN DS!

Little Sprouts Preschool early childhood is focuses on fun, m ra og ent of children pr l oo ch Our pres ng and developm ni ar le e th t or supp led programs. activities to help and 5 day schedu 3, 2, ed er off is s rout ber 3- 6, 2019. ages 3-5. Little Sp week of Septem e th n gi be s m All progra Cost Time s ay D le $69/month Schedu 9 - 11:30 AM R T, 2 Day $97/month 9 - 11:30 AM ,F W , M 3 Day $166/month 9 - 11:30 AM -F M 5 Day tion Center Calvert Recrea l, (402) 441-8480 4500 Stockwel

Youth Golf Camps & Clinics Designed to help give young golfers the skills to start and move their game forward. Ager Golf Course is the “Home to Junior Golf” in the city and we have numerous learning opportunities for young golfers of all skill levels. The Ager course is a perfect safe place for your kids to start to learn a lifetime sport like golf. All equipment is provided for those who need it during the golf camps. Cost of camps vary depending on age and length of session ($30-100). Call the course for program information. Jim Ager Golf Course 3761 Normal Blvd., (402) 441-8963

Saturday with a Naturalist

Saturday, March 23, 2019 | 2:00 - 3:00 pm Pioneers Park Nature Center Go on a guided hike on the Nature Center trails to observe the flora and fauna of the area. Hikes will cover different areas of the Nature Center each month. Register by the Wednesday before each hike. Fee: $8.50/person.

WILD ADVENTURES

Get ready for a wild good time!

Saturday, March 30 12-4pm Pioneers Park Nature Center 3201. S. Coddington Ave (402) 441-7895

during our annual Mark your calendars for FREE and wild good time a family friendly ides prov t even This spring festival, Wild Adventures. crafts, special es, Gam lose. up-c re environment to learn about natu vendors, and food hs, boot al ation presentation, live animals, educ more will be included.

The Nature Center at Dusk

Friday, April 12, 2019 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm Pioneers Park Nature Center Take in the sights and sounds of dusk at the Nature Center during a guided hike experience. While out on the trails and as the sun sets we will watch for crepuscular animals and observe the changes of light and sound as day becomes night. The hike will end just as darkness creeps over the Nature Center and nocturnal life awakens. Wear shoes suitable for trail walking up to 2 miles and dress for the weather. Register by April 10. Fee: $5.00/person.

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

Check Out the March Events at the University of Nebraska--Lincoln Glenn Korff School of Music! Paul Barnes, Piano Sunday, March 3 3:00 pm, Kimball Recital Hall

Percussion Ensemble Monday, March 11 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall

Chamber Singers Sunday, March 3 7:30 pm, St. Marks on the Campus

Flyover New Music Series: Four Wednesday, March 13 7:30 pm, Westbrook Recital Hall

Vocal Jazz Ensemble & Grad Jazz Combo Monday, March 4 7:30 pm, Westbrook Recital Hall

Moran Woodwind Quintet Wednesday, March 13 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall

Symphonic Band Tuesday, March 5 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall Wind Ensemble Wednesday, March 6 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall Jazz Ensembles Thursday, March 7 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall Afternoon of Choirs (Men and Women) Sunday, March 10 3:00 pm, Kimball Recital Hall

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

Symphony Orchestra Thursday, March 14 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall University of Nebraska Brass Quintet Monday, March 25 7:30 pm, Kimball Recital Hall Flute Day Saturday, March 30 All Day, Kimball Recital Hall Midwest ClariFest Saturday, March 30 All Day, Westbrook

For current, up-to-date listings and more information about performances visit, music.unl.edu. Live webcasts will also be available on our website at the time of the performance.

March 2019 | Community News | Section A

A14

Retired LPS teacher nears goal of subbing at every school “Wait, so if you’re retired, why are you still teaching so much?” The seventh-grade boy at Lux Middle School was confused. The substitute teacher standing before his algebra class that day, Susan Hertzler, introduced herself as a retired teacher. She taught with Lincoln Public Schools for 33 years, including her last 10 at Lincoln High School, before retiring in May 2017. By February 2018, she realized how much she missed the classroom and threw herself in to substitute teaching. Since then, Hertzler has taught at 55 of the 65 LPS schools and focus programs, with three new schools on her schedule during the coming weeks. Her goal is to teach at all 65. Hertzler told that curious student that she still loved to teach and to be around students. “And I love doing something different every day.” Hertzler taught math and English Language Learner courses at a variety of schools in addition to Lincoln High during her years as a full-time teacher, including Lincoln East High School and Park, Lefler and Culler middle schools. She retired sooner than she originally planned in order to care for her ill father and mother-in-law. They both passed away within 10 months after her retirement. “Afterwards I was craving the joy, spontaneity and full-of-life kids that had been part of my world prior to losing my parents,” she said. “I also knew that LPS was and is always looking for substitute teachers, so the decision to return just seemed right.” One of her first assignments to substitute teach was at

Saratoga Elementary School, where her father attended. “When I walked in to Saratoga that month after losing my dad I thought to myself, ‘What a beautiful building,’ and was sad that I couldn't go home and visit with my dad about his memories of that school.” Hertzler grew curious about all of the LPS schools and programs: How many were there? Were they all this beautiful? She made it a goal to substitute teach at all of them, which means she’s teaching almost every day and has assignments booked several months in advance. “I’ve been in all kinds of classrooms, which has really opened my eyes to all of the amazing work that is done by so many LPS employees,” she said. Her eyes have also been opened to the physical beauty of LPS schools. Hertzler tries to take at least one photo at every building, then later posts the photos on her Instagram account. Her photos attempt to capture the hidden beauty of schools: the symmetry of lunchroom tables at Meadow Lane Elementary School; tiny hands playing rock-paper-scissors at Pershing Elementary School; the morning sun slicing through clouds and shining on the rocket sculpture outside Lincoln Northeast High School. “When I was teaching full time I had less time to really see all of the really neat parts of my day. When you sub, you generally have a plan period where you don't have responsibilities and I started wandering around the different buildings and I was amazed by something new every day,” she said. “It was sort of like when the Wizard of Oz went from black and white to color - everything just became more alive.” Click your heels together and say it three times: There’s no place like Lincoln Public Schools.

March 2019

Park Middle School students crunch data, predict the future With all the discussion about enrollment growth in Lincoln Public Schools and planning for future facility needs, an eighth-grade algebra class from Park Middle School has its own prediction: Plan for a new middle school in the year 2100. That was one of many findings and predictions made by the students in teacher Jordan Neukirch’s fifth-period differentiated algebra class as part of a three-day project in which they analyzed enrollment data for LPS middle schools. Students worked in groups of four, with each group analyzing data from one of the six LPS middle schools. On the third day, they presented their findings to the entire class. The project was the perfect culmination of what Neukirch’s students have been learning in recent weeks about interpreting data, spotting trends and predicting the future.

“Many of the students were excited to be able to fully interpret and share their knowledge of the schools. It was really cool to hear them share their ideas and what they learned.”

“We had great discussions about changes in their data, such as dips in the population or huge spikes, and what could have caused that. Many of the students were excited to be able to fully interpret and share their knowledge of the schools. It was really cool to hear them share their ideas and what they learned,” Neukirch said. “Many students talked about opening new schools, changes to who can go to which schools, transfers...It was fun to hear their interpretations.” It was the first time Neukirch and the rest of the Park eighth-grade math team used LPS enrollment data for this unit. He credited Jerel Welker, LPS secondary math coordinator, for the idea and for supplying the data. “This was great because we were able to talk about ceilings of populations and what the district would have to do in order to accommodate this constant growth of students among all schools,” he said. “This project provided so many great discussions and insights into how to handle student growth in schools.” May as well plan for that ribbon-cutting ceremony in 2100.

March 2019 | Community News | Section B

Spring forward with hydration By Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT, District Wellness Facilitator What difference does water make? As we head toward spring, we are on the doorstep of spring sports and school evaluation testing — of which may be improved by being properly hydrated. Why? Did you know: Hydration impacts our health in meaningful ways - from better skin and illness prevention, to function during exertion and recovery ability. Research shows it impacts both educational performance and energy. Even better, staying hydrated does not require anything fancier than a cup, glass, water bottle or fountain. Action Plan Goals: Each year, LPS Wellness surveys all school locations about health practices to see how approaches are changing. Schools also choose two goals annually on which they focus. This year, the number one nutrition goal schools selected was to increase hydration for students. Data: Current district trending data from School Wellness Investigations shows schools reporting “Water is encouraged in classrooms at desks and in backpacks to increase hydration” results of: 34 percent for “All classrooms,” 28 percent for “Most Classrooms,” 24 percent “Some Classrooms” and 13 percent reported “No Classrooms” encouraging water. District Support: The focus for health promotion efforts in our final quarter of the school year is encouraging water and hydration. Posters, overhead announcements, challenges, scavenger hunts and more will all be in support of students, staff and families building the habit of drinking water between meals and throughout the day. News: As schools are built, water bottle refilling stations are part of most water fountain areas and are being added to existing schools as water fountains are upgraded. Refilling stations help shorten lines at water fountains and encourage the green practice of reusable water bottles. Many

classrooms also have water fountain-style sink areas, which allow students to access water easily in their classrooms. Learning is thirsty work and ensuring that students have adequate access is proven to be a growing focus. Students taking advantage of school breakfasts, lunches and snacks where provided also gain hydration from fruits, vegetables and milk provided with those meals. One Note: We dietitians encourage milk at meals if tolerated, with water and calorie-free beverages between meals. If you have extra-thirsty kids, offer both a cup of milk (8 ounces, the size of a milk carton) as well as a cup of water. Low-fat milk at meals helps kids receive adequate nutrients. Sports Hydration: For best success, hydrating across the day makes a big difference for performance, be it for academics, sports, music and more. Encouraging your student-athlete to sip water across the day (and during their sport) will help them feel and perform better. Trying to force large quantities of liquids right before an event can lead to that sick, sloshy tummy feeling. Unless you are actively taking part in high-intensity physical activity extending beyond 60 minutes, water is typically your best sports drink. Endurance-type events may require sports drinks half diluted with water or formulated to be lower in sugar concentrations, such as G2. Tip: Use bathroom trips to note your hydration level. Clear, almost colorless urine is a good sign of hydration. For students who need more hydration but find their school has limitations, a note to the health office may provide them increased access to water at their desk if they can properly manage it. Most schools now stipulate that only clear water bottles may be utilized and only 100 percent water can be in the bottles to prevent sticky spills. Thank you for encouraging water at home to benefit your student’s health and hydration.

GAME OVER? By Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT LPS District Wellness Facilitator

access, it’s been oddly freeing. Kind of a brain vacation from over-stimulation.

This year, I’ve embarked on an experiment. Maybe you will join me?

Kids constantly trying to grab your device to game? How freeing it would be to not have that public battle and just send them to play with other kids, to read or to draw instead?

I took a big leap and deleted the games off my phone. Yep. All of them. Then, in another unprecedented move, deleted social media. See you, Facebook. Ba-bye, Twitter. Social media is still beckoning when on a computer, but it’s no longer a fidget in public. Why? Because I wasn’t fully engaging with the world as much as I should. Instead of hiding in a device, it’s time to strike up a conversation with other parents and get to know a few more people between games or events. Instead of partially paying attention while scrolling, maybe it’s time to start strolling. It’s not always easy. After a couple of weeks doing this, there are some “itchy” moments. Though instead of feeling sad about not having

Maybe this is a romantic or an old-fashioned notion, but doesn’t a moment of peace just sound delicious? Many of us as parents are feeling the rush of this crazy world is just too much and we want it to slow down a bit. Kids often feel this, too, noted in how much more stress kids are exhibiting today. What if hitting the delete X is your pause button? After a decade of device dependency (which of course grew slowly) doesn’t dabbling in the daytime world seem divine? Helping devices take back their place as helpers instead of time gobblers? The school-age generation is trying to develop

new ways of connecting. What school staff notices is that unfortunately, it’s not helping them develop deep social-emotional connections with others in meaningful ways. It is contributing instead to anxiety, depression and drama that spawns in part from keyboard courage and ease of online bullying. Help your child(ren) by setting firm limits for devices beyond homework. Keep devices out of bedrooms, especially during bedtime hours. It requires vigilance and consistency, but it can be done. Most of us from the pre-smart phone era ache for that in-person connection, never replaceable by the highlight reel of social media. Making the choice to break free is up to us. It feels great! If you are out and about and looking up, please say “Hi!” P.S. Imagine the example it will set? Feel free to drop me a line at mwelch@lps.org. I love celebrating your success with you!

100% fruit juice or 100% real fruit?

Do the Math lb. = 75 child AppleJuice

lb. = 150 adult

12 oz 180 calories

Walk 5 miles to burn off the calories*

Walk 2.5 miles

to burn off the calories* * walking 3 mph

Too Much juice doesnâ€™t add up to a healthy family. Choose water and an apple insteadâ€“ cut your calories in half!

HealthyLincoln.org Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln S

NAC

M AR

Made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Do the Math LPS Ad.indd 1

2/10/17 3:39 PM

74th Annual Local Tradition

March 13-17

Payments are not deductible as charitable contributions. Proceeds are for the benefit of Sesostris Shriners activities.

What is The Big Event?

The Big Event is a University of Nebraska Lincoln student led volunteer event where we serve to give back to the Lincoln community. Last year, there was over 3,000 student, staff, and faculty volunteers that spent about three hours at each jobsite.

We need your help!

The Big Event needs YOU, the private residents and organizations of the Lincoln community. Sign up for jobsites close March 15, 2019!

Request Volunteers at https://bigevent.unl.edu

ONE BIG DAY OF THANKS APRIL 6, 2019

START SMALL WHILE THEYâ€™RE SMALL, TO GROW A BRIGHTER FUTURE

March 2019 | Community News | Section B

CLC staff test drive new mobile makerspace labs Saratoga Elementary School hosted about 60 Community Learning Center (CLC) staff members on Feb. 2 for a hands-on training session on the new Think, Make, Create mobile makerspace labs. These two trailers store bins, tables and other supplies, and will travel to different CLC sites throughout the city. Through creativity and problem solving, the makerspace labs will teach valuable lessons in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The mobile makerspace labs are being funded through an interlocal agreement between Lincoln Public Schools and the City of Lincoln that was approved in May 2018. Also, the shelving inside the labs was constructed by students at The Career Academy. There are 26 CLCs, located at 19 elementary schools, six middle schools and one high school. They offer a variety of afterschool programming and resources through partnerships with local agencies and hundreds of community partners. CLCs are overseen by a 12-member board, with representatives from LPS, the City of Lincoln and the greater Lincoln community.

A special lesson at Riley – thanks to some special goats First-grade students in Lincoln Public Schools learn about animals and the life cycle as part of their science curriculum. A recent lesson for first-grade students at Riley Elementary School went above and beyond those expectations. One of Riley’s first-grade teachers, Vickie Neilly, has a brother who farms in Burwell, Nebraska. One of his female goats - or does - gave birth to female quintuplets recently. There’s a one-in-10,000 chance for goats to give birth to quintuplets - and to have them all be female is unheard of, Neilly said. Neilly’s students, as well as those of fellow first-grade teachers Jenna Adamson and Nicole Janssen, were able to see photos of the baby goats and watch them live via webcam. Each class also had the opportunity to name one of them. Students submitted suggested names, then voted on the winners. The classes came together briefly on Thursday afternoon and Neilly revealed the winning names. For Adamson’s class, the winning name was Lulu, with Snowball the runner-up. Janssen’s students chose Miracle. Neilly’s students voted on Snow White in a close race over Cupcake and Mrs. Neilly, in honor of their teacher.

“I love these names. I can’t wait to tell my brother,” Neilly said. The fourth baby goat was already named Cali. As for the fifth, the teachers and their students had a suggestion for Neilly’s brother: Riley, of course.

spring break

DAY CAMP

DURING LPS SPRING BREAK March 11 - 15

PROGRAMS AVAILABLE FOR

K - 6th grade & 7 - 9th grade (LITs) Register for an entire week or the days that fit your schedule. Bring a sack lunch and day camp will be held 9 - 5 p.m. every day. Extended hours available.

REGISTER NOW www.CampSonshineMemories.org 402.423.8746 info@campsonshinememories.org Camp Sonshine is located at 13440 S. 25th St., Roca, NE 68430

CAMP SONSHINE OPEN HOUSE Saturday, May 11

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

2 - 6 p.m.

on stage

this summer sing! dance! sing! dance! act! act! Opportunities for ALL AGES! Rising Stars Ages 3-8 June 17-21 • 9:30-11:00am • $100

June 24-28 • 9:30-11:00am • $100

Fairy Tale Forest

Candyland Adventures

Informal Performance: Friday, June 21st, 10:30am

Informal Performance: Friday, June 28th, 10:30am

Join Cinderella as she encounters the fairy tale characters who helped—or hindered—her journey home from the ball!

Join us for this SWEET story set in the town of Candyland!

STAGE Stars Ages 7-15 June 3-7 • Ages 7-15 9:30am-3:30pm • $200

June 17-21 • Ages 7-15 12:30-3:30pm • $150

June 24-28 • Ages 9-15 12:30-3:30pm • $150

M-F July 8-19 • Ages 7-15 9:30-3:30pm • $400

Total Theatre Experience

Broadway bound! Sing! Dance! Act!

Create & Relate!

Disney’s The Lion King, Jr.

Held at Kloefkorn Elementary Sing, dance, & act your way through this workshop featuring scenes from your favorite musicals!

Informal Performance: Friday, June 7th, 2pm

All classes held at 4325 Sumner Street unless otherwise noted

Set the stage with choreography, acting, singing, stage combat, stage makeup & more!

Informal Performance: Friday, June 21st, 3pm

Improv and script writing Theatre workshops and classes lead by Judy Hart!

Informal Performance: Friday, June 21st, 3pm

Take part in an unforgettable musical experience based on Disney’s The Lion King!

Performances: Thursday, July 18, 7pm Friday, July 19, 2 & 7 pm

TAFK.ORG

info@TAFK.org

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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT

r e m m u S mps Ca M

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all

Children journey through time, space, and the natural world this summer during half-day camps at Morrill Hall! Each day campers will explore natural history and science topics through hands-on activities. Elephants, Dinos, and Rhinos Oh My! June 17th - 21st 3rd - 5th Grade

Mini and Mighty July 15th - 19th 1st - 2nd Grade

Space Expedition July 29th - August 2nd 4th - 6th Grade

Museum Members $95 Non-Members $105

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

WEATHERFEST 19th Annual Family Weatherfest and Science Spectacular SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 2019

— FREE EVENT, FREE PARKING — Exhibits and Activities / 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Severe Weather Symposium / 12:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m. LOCATION Nebraska Innovation Campus N 21st St and Salt Creek Roadway / Lincoln, Nebraska

FEATURED EXHIBITS AND ACTIVITIES • Hands-on science demonstrations and experiments for all ages • Weather, climate change, and sciencerelated exhibits • Emergency management vehicles on display • Storm Spotter Workshop • Information about Summer Weather Camp • Storm chasers and their vehicles • Storm photography • Weather and climate books for sale

weatherfest.unl.edu SPONSORED BY Nebraska Extension / College of Arts and Sciences, Geography Program and Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences / State Farm

WEATHERFEST IS A “WEATHER-READY NATION AMBASSADOR” EVENT

• Renewable energy and natural resources exhibits • Explore the Doppler Radar on Wheels! (weather permitting) • Meet and greet Lincoln and Omaha TV weathercasters!

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination. © 2019 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska. All rights reserved.

March 2019 | Community News | Section B

B11

Arts and Humanities students explore hip hop culture Students in the Lincoln Public Schools Arts and Humanities Focus Program are collaborating with the Lied Center for the Performing Arts on a series of workshops that explore hip hop, perhaps known best as a music genre but actually a larger cultural movement that includes dance, fashion and other forms of artistic expression. So far, students: learned about the history and origins of hip hop and the role played by music DJs; heard from dancer and choreographer Vijay Olander, who also taught them a few dance moves; and visited the Johnny Carson Theater for a question-and-answer session with choreographer Rennie Harris. They have one more session planned with a local rap musician. The Arts and Humanities Focus Program began in 1998 and is open to students in grades nine through 12. The program is a highly interactive learning environment centered around the arts and humanities. Students who attend the focus program remain students at their home high school and are eligible to participate in the schoolâ€™s activities, athletics and social events, as well as those of the focus program. Students take at least two classes at their home high school prior to the start of the Arts and Humanities program each day.

K i d s CO R N E R

March 2019 | Community News | Section B

2/18/2019

B13

MealViewer Schools

MARCH 2019

/ Beattie Elementary March Breakfast Breakfast MONDAY

Mini Waf es Maple

Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Orange Juice Apricot Cup

No School

11 18

Mini Chocolate Chip French Toast Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Orange Juice Apricot Cup

Mini Berry Pancakes Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Orange Juice 2/18/2019 Apricot Cup

TUESDAY

Breakfast Burrito Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

No School

Egg & Cheese Sandwich Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

Breakfast Quesadilla Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

WEDNESDAY

Fruit Filled Frudel Trix Cereal Mini Loaf Yogurt Apple Juice Mixed Berry Cup

No School

Pancake Sausage on a Stick Trix Cereal Mini Loaf Yogurt Apple Juice Strawberry Cup

Breakfast Bar Trix Cereal Mini Loaf Yogurt Apple Juice Mixed Berry Cup

Chicken Nuggets Teriyaki Beef Nuggets Chef Salad Falafel Nuggets Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Warm Cinnamon Apple Slices Pineapple Tidbits Roll

No School

Popcorn Chicken Turkey Hot Dog on Bun Chef Salad Cheese Pizza Bites Meatless Chef Salad Baked Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Croissant

TUESDAY

Taco Crunch with Baked Scoops Chef Salad Cheese Ravioli in Marinara Sauce Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Blueberries with Whipped Topping Mixed Berry Cup Diced Peaches Roll

Pancake Chicken Sausage

Muchos Nachos Cheeseburger on Bun Chef Salad Black Bean Salsa Burger Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Orange Wedges Diced Peaches Roll

MealViewer

WEDNESDAY

Tangerine Chicken on Brown Rice Breaded Pork Sandwich Chef Salad Crustless Soybutter and Jelly Sandwich

with Cheese Stick

No School

Chicken Teriyaki on Brown Rice Chef Salad Cheese Pizza Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Fresh Pear Applesauce Roll

13 20

Chicken Nuggets Teriyaki Beef Nuggets Chef Salad Omelet Falafel Nuggets Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Warm Cinnamon Apple Slices Pineapple Tidbits Roll English Muf�n

No School

Chicken Fingers Turkey Sausage & Cheese Mini Pizza Bites BBQ Beef Sandwich Chef Salad Veggie Teriyaki Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Biscuit

WEDNESDAY

Pepperoni Pizza BBQ Chicken Thigh Chef Salad Vegetarian Chik'n Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Romaine Lettuce Salad Orange Wedges Diced Pears Cinnamon Roll

Taco Crunch with Baked Scoops Buffalo Chicken Tenders Chef Salad Cheese Ravioli in Marinara Sauce Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Blueberries with Whipped Topping Mixed Berry Cup Diced Peaches Jalapeno Cornbread Garlic Breadstick Roll

Mini Cinnis Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Assorted Juice Raisins Assorted Fruit

FRIDAY

No School

Creamed Turkey on Whipped Potatoes Salisbury Steak Chef Salad Cheesy Green Chili Quesadilla Meatless Chef Salad Whipped Potatoes with Gravy Romaine Lettuce Salad Strawberry Cup Diced Pears Roll Fat Free Strawberry Milk

Tangerine Chicken on Brown Rice Breaded Pork Sandwich Fish Melt Sandwich Chef Salad Crustless Soybutter and Jelly Sandwich

with Cheese Stick

Meatless Chef Salad Savory Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Grapes Applesauce Roll Garlic Breadstick

Cheeseburger on Bun Baja Chicken, Cheese & Rice Burrito Chef Salad Black Bean Salsa Burger Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Orange Wedges Diced Peaches Roll

Mini Bagels Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Assorted Juice Raisins Assorted Fruit

French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links Breaded Chicken Sandwich Chef Salad French Toast Sticks with Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

No School

18 19 20 https://schools.mealviewer.com/school/BeattleElementary/print?month=2&year=2019&blockId=1156 Popcorn Chicken Muchos Nachos Chicken Teriyaki on Brown Rice Turkey Hot Dog on Bun Cheeseburger Paradise on Croissant Chef Salad Cheese Pizza Bites Meatless Chef Salad Baked Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Croissant

No School

Creamy Mac & Cheese Personal 3 Meat Pizza Chef Salad Bean Burrito Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll Dessert Item

No School

Corn Puppies Grilled Cheese Sandwich Chef Salad Grilled Mozzarella Cheese Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Savory Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll Frosted Chocolate Cake

French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links Breaded Chicken Sandwich Chef Salad French Toast Sticks with Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

29 1/1

MARCH 2019

TUESDAY

Chocolate Filled Crescent Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Assorted Juice Raisins Assorted Fruit

THURSDAY

/ LincolnLunch High / Lincoln High March Lunch Secondary

MARCH 2019

Chicken Fingers Soft Shell Beef Taco Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Turkey Sausage & Cheese Mini Chef Salad Hamburger Pizza Mexi Pizza Pizza Bites Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Chef Salad Chef Salad Chef Salad with Marinara Sauce Hummus with Cheese Stick and Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce Veggie Teriyaki Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Savory Pizza Crackers and Shredded Mozzarella https://schools.mealviewer.com/school/BeattleElementary/print?month=2&year=2019&blockId=1156 Cheese Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Meatless Chef Salad Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Sweet Peas Baby Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Mandarin Oranges Romaine Lettuce Salad Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Diced Peaches Fresh Pear Orange Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Roll Applesauce Diced Pears Biscuit Roll 2/18/2019 MealViewer Schools Fresh Baked Garlic Bread Chocolate Cookie

MONDAY

Sandwich

Cocoa Puffs Cereal Mini Breakfast Bar Hard Boiled Egg Schools Fruit Blend Juice Strawberry Cup

Meatless Chef Salad Savory Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Grapes Applesauce Roll

No School

Turkey Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Sliders Cocoa Puffs Cereal Mini Breakfast Bar Hard Boiled Egg Fruit Blend Juice Mixed Berry Cup

/ Beattie Elementary March Lunch Elementary Lunch MONDAY

No School

FRIDAY Mini Cinnis Apple Cinnamon Cheerios Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Assorted Juice Raisins Assorted Fruit

Mini Turkey Sausage Breakfast Bites Cocoa Puffs Cereal Mini Breakfast Bar Hard Boiled Egg Fruit Blend Juice Strawberry Cup

Apple

THURSDAY

Lasagna Chef Salad Cheese Pizza Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Fresh Pear Applesauce Garlic Breadstick Roll

Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Hamburger Pizza Nebraska Bun Chef Salad Hummus with Cheese Stick and Savory Pizza Crackers Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Fresh Pear Applesauce Roll

THURSDAY

Pepperoni Pizza BBQ Chicken Thigh Chili Chef Salad Vegetarian Chik'n Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Romaine Lettuce Salad Orange Wedges Diced Pears Cinnamon Roll

No School

Creamed Turkey on Whipped Potatoes Salisbury Steak Chef Salad French Bread Garlic Pizza Cheesy Green Chili Quesadilla Meatless Chef Salad Whipped Potatoes with Gravy Romaine Lettuce Salad Strawberry Cup Diced Pears Roll Fat Free Strawberry Milk

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Mexi Pizza Shredded Chicken Carnitas on a Flour Tortilla Chef Salad Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Meatless Chef Salad Baby Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Orange Wedges Diced Pears Fresh Baked Garlic Bread

FRIDAY French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links Breaded Chicken Sandwich Chicken Enchilada Chef Salad French Toast Sticks with Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

14 21

Creamy Mac & Cheese Personal 3 Meat Pizza Hot & Spicy Chicken Sandwich Chef Salad Bean Burrito Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

No School

Corn Puppies Grilled Cheese Sandwich Sloppy Joe on Bun Chef Salad Grilled Mozzarella Cheese Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Savory Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links Breaded Chicken Sandwich Chicken Enchilada Chef Salad French Toast Sticks with Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

15 22

1/1

1.8% ➎ District Administration Salaries/Benefits

2017-2018 LPS ANNUAL REPORT

New Horizons Await

2017-18

Annual Report Lincoln Public Schools

As we celebrate years past, and look ahead to opportunities on the horizon, Lincoln Public Schools remains committed to setting the stage for a future that gives our students the greatest potential for success in college, career and civic life. We have much to applaud. • We are aligned for quality learning with outstanding teachers, fine curriculum and instruction, cutting-edge technology and great schools. • Accountability data demonstrates we are on track with our students, producing solid academic outcomes. • With more than 42,000 students, our school district is healthy and robust, expanding in all directions, growing by 8,000 students since 2008-09—an increase of nearly 24 percent. • We respect traditions while also understanding the need to be creative, thinking outside the box to personalize student learning experiences with career pathways, focus programs and real-life experiences. • As student numbers grow, so do student needs, and LPS remains bound to the pledge of honoring all students: And ALL MEANS ALL.

Update on the 2017-2022 Strategic Plan

Support for Educators

The Lincoln Board of Education approved a new Strategic Plan in December, 2017, the focus for Lincoln Public Schools in coming years. We offer a brief progress report on each of the major themes. For the full strategic plan: https://home.lps.org/strategicplan/

Lincoln Public Schools has revised and implemented several strategies to recruit, hire, develop and retain high quality and diverse staff. Significant revisions were made to the teacher mentoring program and tenure courses for new teachers. In addition, new leadership development programming has been prioritized, and a new Talent Ambassador program will be an asset to the overall recruiting strategy.

Family & Community Partnerships

Future Ready Global Citizens

In working toward providing all students access to high-quality fullservice community schools, all 26 of Lincoln Community Learning Centers have been evaluated and have established improvement plans for 2018-2019 based on feedback using the District’s quality standards. Grant applications have also been prepared to add CLCs at Northeast High School, Randolph Elementary School and Lincoln High School.

During the fall semester the Lincoln Public Schools High School Options Task Force reviewed current focus programs and examined potential new curricular themes for high schools. Findings will be presented to the superintendent and Board of Education second semester 2019.

Growth Ready Facilities & Infrastructure

Support Academic Success for All Students

Lincoln Public Schools continues to plan for high-quality facilities to serve our growing population. The area of highest growth is our high school population. The Board of Education charged Superintendent Steve Joel with establishing a community task force to investigate community options and priorities for serving high school students. The Task Force presented findings and recommendations to the Board of Education on April 24, 2018.

Lincoln Public Schools continues to expand mental health supports for students and to plan for enhanced early childhood services. During the 2018-2019 school year the number of mental health professionals serving students was increased and a report on the current status of early childhood programs and the potential for expansion was presented to the superintendent.

Academics and Accountability

2017-18

Annual Report Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel Superintendent of Schools (402) 436-1601 sjoel@lps.org Connie Duncan, President Lincoln Board of Education connie.duncan@lps.org

Lincoln Public Schools students continue to demonstrate solid, quality achievement, evident in student accountability and assessment scores, as well as graduation rates. A few highlights from 2017-18: LPS again received designation as a “GREAT” school district from the Nebraska Department of Education, a designation that reflects the quality of teaching and learning in the school district, as well as policies enacted by the Lincoln Board of Education that support high-quality teaching and learning. School district proficiency scores indicate that LPS exceeds state mean scores in every grade from three through

The Lincoln Public School District does not discriminate on eight, both English/language arts and mathematics. the basis of race, color, in national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, citizenship status economic status in its programs, The orgraduation rate under the state accountability system is a weighted computation based on the four-year activities and employment, including career and technical graduation the extended seven-year graduation rate. Under this system, the LPS combined high school education programs or activitiesrate as setand forth in compliance with federal and state statutes and regulations. Any persons graduation rate for thecompliance class of 2018 is 86.54 percent. The LPS percent of students who graduated in five, six or having inquiries about this publication, or LPS with Title II, seven Title IV, Title VI, Title IX and/orpercent. Section 504 Go to: https://lps.org/accountability years is 90.35 may contact: Mary Kay Roth, 402-436-1609; Lincoln Public Schools, P.O. Box 82889, Lincoln, NE 68501-2889.

ECR-WSS Residential Customer

LPS WOULD LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK!

Thoughtful Study of LPS School Buildings

Lincoln Public Schools has a tried-and-true community process for analyzing long-range facility needs to ensure Please take a few minutes and we wisely accommodate student growth.give In January, we convened the Superintendent’s Facilities Advisory us your2019, thoughts at: Committee, 100 community stakeholders committed to intense study of school building and infrastructure needs. This annual report is required

http://lps.org/survey

The Advisory Committee willtodig into difficult facilities questions, then offer recommendations for a thoughtful, by law for school districts community-based that lays the foundation for a potential bond issue in 2020. Indeed, these will be tough report studentplan performance results and financial decisions, ensuring solid schools for our students into the future – but also understanding there are considerably information to stakeholders. more needs than our limited resources will ever allow. Go to: https://home.lps.org/sfac/

Of our 42,034 LPS Students...

5 106 ,

received gifted services

Of our 42,034 LPS Students...

New Horizons Await

2017-18

Annual Report Lincoln Public Schools

Safety and Security

2 962 ,

were English Language Learners (immigrant As we celebrate years past, and look ahead to opportunities on the & refugee students) horizon, Lincoln Public Schools remains committed to setting the stage for a future that gives our students the greatest potential for success in college, career and civic life.

We have much to applaud. Lincoln Public Schools continued its commitment to safety and secu• We arewith aligned rity in many ways, including an expanded partnership the for Cityquality learning with outstanding teachers, fine curriculum and instruction, cutting-edge technology and great of Lincoln that provides additional resources that benefit students, schools. staff and the community. Through this partnership, there are now six • Accountability data demonstrates we are on track with our students, middle school resource officers; a threat-assessment police officer producing academic outcomes. dedicated to LPS; additional therapists and mental health solid support, including a newly added social worker; and additional funding safe students, our school district is healthy and • With more thanfor 42,000 after-school opportunities with Community Learning robust,Centers. expanding in all directions, growing by 8,000 students since 2008-09—an increase of nearly 24 percent. • We respect traditions while also understanding the need to be Of our 42,034 LPS Students... creative, thinking outside the box to personalize student learning experiences with career pathways, focus programs and real-life experiences.

Of our 42,034 LPS Students...

6 799

46%

• As student numbers grow, so do student needs, and LPS remains qualified for free ALL. bound to the pledge of honoring all students: And ALL MEANS or reduced lunch

were served by special education

2017-18 Expenditure Budget

Finances The Lincoln Board of Education approved a 2017-18 budget for $421 million and a 2018-19 budget of $444 million, providing educational needs for significant growth in the school district. Since 2005-06, LPS has reduced the total tax levy over seven cents - from $1.3142 to $1.2389. For 201819 the school district has a slightly lower levy of $1.2241 (the lowest levy in our records dating back to 196768). According to the most recent statistics: LPS ranked 227 out of 245 school districts in Nebraska in per pupil spending ($11,274 per pupil compared to the state of Nebraska average of $12,230).

$420,773,370

62.4% 5.7% 5.1% 4.0% 1.8%

➊ Certificated (Educators) Salaries/Benefits ➋ Contract Services ➌ Supplies ➍ School Administration Salaries/Benefits ➎ District Administration Salaries/Benefits

0.4% 0.4% 0.2% 20.0%

➏ Transfers & Fixed ➐ Equipment ➑ Other ➒ Classified Salaries/ Benefits