March 2018 Community News by Lincoln Public Schools

March 2018

Blake chosen for national science leadership role A Lincoln Public Schools employee has been chosen to serve as president of the national organization whose mission is developing leaders in K-12 science education. James Blake, LPS K-12 science curriculum specialist, was recently elected to lead the National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA). He’ll begin his three-year term in June as president-elect before taking over as president in 2019. Blake will remain in his position at LPS, which he credits for his ascent to this national leadership role. He has served in his current position as curriculum specialist since 2014. He began his career in education as a science teacher at North Star High School. “The lessons I have learned about being authentic and inspiring hope in the science classroom and with other science educators - I learned those from the people I worked with for the first ten years in LPS,” Blake said. “By sharing myself with the nation through the NSELA election process, and then getting the vote of confidence back from the membership, I feel a sense of pride and I hope my LPS mentors and colleagues can share in this joy because it represents them, too.” LPS Associate Superintendent for Instruction Jane Stavem said it’s no surprise that Blake was selected for this honor. “James is committed to quality science instruction that is highly engaging for students. We are grateful for his leadership and look forward to the opportunities our district will have as he interacts with science educators across the nation,” Stavem said.

NSELA’s primary goal is to promote leadership in science education through annual professional development and leadership institutes, as well as various publications. As president, Blake will be the “face” of NSELA - facilitating decisions made by its board of directors and acting as a liaison to government, education and business organizations.

Added LPS Director of Curriculum and Instruction Takako Olson: “James gets everyone excited about science. With the wealth of knowledge he has in science education, we can honestly say that NSELA is in good hands. We’re looking forward to the positive impact he will make through this work for science educators across the country.”

“The experience as president will benefit my work in LPS through improved collaboration,” Blake said. “Through organizing professional development and creating leadership publications with the top science leaders in the nation, my network will be expanded to districts like ours so I can learn from and with them and take those lessons back to our district.”

Honoring the impact of African-American literature Lincoln Public Schools hosted an African-American ReadIn on Feb. 9, featuring LPS staff, students and community members reading excerpts from their favorite AfricanAmerican literature and sharing their personal stories about the authors.

“She was a trailblazer. She forged a path so others could follow. She overcame the obstacles put in front of her because of the color of her skin and her circumstances,” said Harris, who recalled first learning of Wheatley when she was eight years old.

The hour-long event, held in conjunction with Lincoln City Libraries, was intended to explore African-American history and the contributions of African-Americans in the world of literature and the arts.

Stewart Venable, a physical education teacher at Lincoln High School, read from the book “The Mis-Education of the Negro,” by Carter G. Woodson. Venable’s father first shared the book with him, then he passed on the same copy to his own son.

LPS Director of Library Media Services Chris Haeffner offered opening remarks for the crowd assembled in the district office board room. She spoke about the power of stories.

“After I did that I missed my book so I had to go buy another one,” Venable said.

“We celebrate this day based on the simple idea that stories connect us. They connect us to our history, to our past, and they connect us to the web of ideas and inspirations that speak to us from their pages,” she said. “They teach us empathy and understanding. There are millions of stories, and each book we read, every book we digest, changes us.” Cynthia Harris from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services shared the story of Phillis Wheatley, the first published African-American poet.

Students from the TRACKS Empowerment Scholars program at Belmont Elementary School put on a powerful performance. They combined excerpts from the book “What Do You Do With An Idea,” by Kobi Yamada, with images of and words about various African-American leaders throughout history, including Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela and Lt. Col. Paul Adams, the namesake of Adams Elementary School in Lincoln.

What’s Inside Section A: • Students Financial Future . . . . . A2 • Northeast Against Drugs. . . . . . . A4 • Elliot Preserves Mural. . . . . . . . . A5 • Annual Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A6 • Strategic Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A7 • Native American Issues. . . . . . . A10 • Embroidery Classes. . . . . . . . . . A12 What’s Inside Section B: • Spelling Bee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B1 • Painting a Masterpiece . . . . . . . . B1 • Schoo Peace Group . . . . . . . . . . . B2 • LPS Retirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B4 • Mood Boosters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B5 • East Dance Team. . . . . . . . . . . . . B9 • Menus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B11 • STEM at Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . B12

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

Students learn to ‘Take Charge’ of financial future “I wish I knew about (blank) when I was younger.” Lincoln North Star High School business teacher Shannon Quible frequently hears this phrase, with people filling in the blank with words like “saving money” or “credit scores” or “college scholarships.” Then she mentally goes through the checklist of what students learn in the Take Charge career readiness and financial responsibility course, which is mandatory for Lincoln Public Schools juniors as part of their career education graduation requirements. It’s usually “we teach that, we teach that, we teach that,” Quible said. LPS has offered and required the course since the 2013-14 school year. Students learn a combination of career and personal finance content, including writing resumes, gauging career interests, planning their finances and exploring college or employment options after high school. They also go through mock interviews and job shadow a professional in a field of their choice. “The life skills taught in Take Charge are important for all students,” said Julie Hippen, LPS assistant curriculum specialist for career and technical education. The semester-long course also includes a variety of guest speakers, including representatives from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Southeast Community College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, EducationQuest and Gallup. Quible said she believes strongly in the importance of the course. “I’ll have former students come back and say how much they used what they learned,” she said.

Oh no! Get your Go Po done soon. Find volunteer needs at Volunteerlinc.org/GOPO

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

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

Each month, an additional way our PLC – Professional Learning Communities – help students in Lincoln Public Schools.

Consistency between classrooms and schools PLCs help teachers across our large district calibrate their instruction. This helps us ensure we are offering the same learning experience to students in 9th grade English in one high school with that of 9th grade English students in another high school. In LPS every PLC is responsible for answering 4 questions. While these questions may seem simple, they represent complex planning, analysis and decision making on the part of each PLC team. The four questions include... • What do we want each student to learn? • How will we know when each student has learned it? • How will we respond when a student experiences difficulty in learning? • How will we respond when a student has already learned essential knowledge and skills? When we set aside time to provide skilled professionals an opportunity to discuss these 4 essential questions, student benefit from the collective knowledge of the PLC team.

lm and camp a C p on e e K

Summer Camps 2018 ™

Hus

Est. 1992

r es

rK u t n i ds ™ e + H u sk e r A dv

A DAY CAMP FOR 2 nd

8 th GRADERS

50% FNuL.ElDlU/!CAMP

S I G N U P : G O.U

2018 Sessions

Pricing: • $130 per week • Each session held Monday-Friday, 7:15 a.m.–4:15 p.m. daily. • Extended session available for $10/week/child

DAYS

DATES

Monday–Friday

June 4–8

Monday–Friday

June 11–15

Monday–Friday

June 18–22

Monday–Friday

June 25–29

NO CAMP JULY 2–6 Monday–Friday

July 9–13

Monday–Friday

July 16–20

Monday–Friday

July 23–27

Monday–Friday

July 30–Aug. 3

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.

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

Northeast students ‘Always in Uniform’ against drug, alcohol use A dedicated group of students at Lincoln Northeast High School spent the school week of Jan. 29 - Feb. 2 raising awareness about the dangers of alcohol and drug use. It’s just the latest effort by the club, Always in Uniform, which not only organizes activities at Northeast but outreach efforts at middle schools, as well. The Always in Uniform leadership group planned numerous activities that week in conjunction with National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week. There were clothing theme days, including Jan. 30 when students were encouraged to dress like a teacher and vice versa. On Feb. 3, students are asked to wear pajamas to the Northeast girls and boys basketball games, then stay afterwards for a “fifth-quarter dance.” Senior Hailegh Lowell, a member of the group’s leadership group, said student participation has been great and thinks her fellow Rockets are heeding the message: You are always representing Northeast High School - “Always in Uniform” so don’t use drugs or alcohol if you want to show school pride. “I think it’s definitely having an impact,” she said. In October, Always in Uniform organized activities in conjunction with Red Ribbon Week, a national campaign to call attention to drug and alcohol abuse. Club members also have visited middle schools for demonstrations and to speak to students. On Jan. 2, members of the leadership team met with Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler to discuss their plans for National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week and to sign a proclamation. In addition to Lowell, the other members of the Always in Uniform leadership group are Annika Kuchar, Kaylie Hill, Reece Fuchs, Kyla Gushard, Aaron Haeffner, Laini Fullerton and Frankie Kohn.

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

Elliot Elementary preserves mural and its message

Now a junior at Lincoln East High School, Rianna Mueller has fond memories of her time spent at Elliott Elementary School. One memory in particular stands out - the colorful mural that adorned a wall in the cafeteria. The elaborate painting depicted the school’s diverse student population. “Every single day I sat in the lunchroom and admired how different each and every one of the characters were,” Mueller said. So Mueller was understandably upset last year when she learned that the mural would be covered because of construction. She told her mom, Elliott fifth-grade teacher Rhonda Mueller, that she wanted to help preserve the mural and the positive message it sends to students, staff and community members. Rianna recreated the mural on nine small canvases, which now hang on the wall. The school’s roughly 400 students added their thumbprints to the canvases. “I want future generations to know how amazing Elliott is and how important their differences are to the world around them,” Rianna said. “I couldn’t have that mural gone because as simple as it was it held a very powerful message that the world today needs to hear.” The Elliott staff took that creativity one step further last fall. Art teacher Bob Reeker invited his colleagues to add their own personal flair to six large canvases, using the school colors of purple and yellow, along with the rest of the colors of the rainbow. The resulting art project sends a powerful message, Reeker said. “The installation is an example of a collaborative effort with students, staff and community one that can remain and beautify the wall for years to come.”

Family Activity:

Listen, Listen, Listen! Listening games are great for developing our brains and they also are a fun way to pass time while traveling or sitting around the house on a rainy day. Try some listening games…everyone in the family will improve their listening skills! Materials Needed A sack for each family member; an object (chosen by each family member and placed in their sacks.) Procedure Give each person a sack that you cannot see through. Tell each person to go to their rooms or any room in the house and find something to place in their bags. Take turns letting each person tell the group that they have an object in their bag, then give hints about the object, and then ask the family to guess what it is. For example, the person who is “it” could say, “I have something in my sack that winds up and spins. What is it?” Family members can raise their hands and guess what the object is. If no one guesses it, the person who is “it” can continue to give more clues about their object until someone guesses what the object is. The person who correctly guesses the object in the bag is now “it”, and the game continues. There is not a “winner” in the game, so play until the family decides to stop. After each family member has had their item guessed, they may all go back and find another object for the next round. Follow-Up Discussion/Questions: Ask and discuss the following • What kinds of clues were the easiest to guess? • What kinds of clues were the most challenging? • Why did you choose the object/s that you placed in your bag? Family Challenge/Extension Activity • Try playing the game like 20 questions, with “yes” or “no” responses.

2016-2017 Lincoln Public Schools

ANNUAL REPORT The Lincoln Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, citizenship status or economic status in its programs, activities and employment, including career and technical education programs or activities as set forth in compliance with federal and state statutes and regulations. Any persons having inquiries about this publication, or LPS compliance with Title II, Title IV, Title VI, Title IX and/or Section 504 may contact: Mary Kay Roth, 402-436-1609; Lincoln Public Schools, P.O. Box 82889, Lincoln, NE 68501-2889.

Academics

High school graduatio scores are all holding above state averages student enrollment nu

The high school gradu from 85.6 to 85.2 perc graduates than ever in That means 85.2 perc LPS as ninth graders – years (compared to a years ago). The officia is what is called the “o However, LPS also clo in five and six years - a graduation rate is 89.9

Thank you for supporting Lincoln Public Schools. As we reflect upon those who advocate for LPS, we offer a thank you card to express gratitude for their affirmation and support of our public school district. Thank you for investing in our students, our children, our future. Thank you, Lincoln, for your support of Lincoln Public Schools.

This is a special issue of the Annual Report from Lincoln Public Schools – a publication required by the Nebraska Department of Education – published and distributed annually to update our citizens about the school district. This year we are featuring the full text of the new LPS Strategic Plan approved by the Lincoln Board of Education in December 2017, including major themes, strategic goals and action steps.

lps.org/survey lps.org/connect/

We are also including the basic facts and figures of our school district, including academics, demographics, finances and goals. Finally, we want to take this moment to thank our community. Our school district is growing – in numbers and in academic achievement – success that happens when a community stands behind schools and supports public education. Thank you, Lincoln! Thank you for supporting Lincoln Public Schools.

Nebraska State Accou based on state standa – in fact, LPS scores ar

• In all grades tested, English Language Ar

For more gratitude visit: lps.org/thankyou

• In grades 3-8, the pe exceeds the state av using ACT scores for above the state ave

Finances

The Lincoln Board of Education approved a 2016-17 budget for $402 million and a 2017-18 budget of $421 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 $1.2397. For 2017-18 the school district has a slightly lower levy of $1.2389 (the lowest levy in our records dating back to 1967-68). According to the most recent statistics: LPS ranked 228 out of 245 school districts in Nebraska in per pupil spending ($10,842 per pupil compared to the state of Nebraska average of $11,901).

2016-17

Expenditure Budget: $402,431,270

An annual report is required by law for school districts to report student performance results and financial information to stakeholders.

Please take a few minutes and give us your thoughts at:

YOUR FEEDBACK!

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

Academics Academics

High school graduation High school ratesgraduation and state student rates and achievement state student assessment achievement assessment scores are all holding scoressteady are allat holding Lincolnsteady PublicatSchools Lincoln–Public generally Schools scoring – generally scoring above state averages above–state as the averages school district – as theincreases school district both rigor increases and both rigor and student enrollment student numbers. enrollment numbers.

The high school The graduation high school rate graduation for the LPS rate classfor of 2017 the LPS decreased class of 2017 slightly, decreased slightly, from 85.6 to 85.2 from percent, 85.6 to statistically 85.2 percent, staying statistically flat, while staying LPS had flat,more while LPS had more graduates than ever graduates in 2017 than (2,032 evercompared in 2017 (2,032 to 1,955 compared the year tobefore). 1,955 the year before). That means 85.2That percent means of the 85.2students percent in of the the class students of 2017 in the who class started of 2017 at who started at LPS as ninth graders LPS as – and ninthdid graders not move – and away did not – graduated move away on time – graduated in four on time in four years (comparedyears to a (compared graduation to rate a graduation of about 80rate percent of about more80than percent five more than five years ago). The official years ago). graduation The official rate graduation in Nebraskarate andinacross Nebraska the country and across the country is what is called isthe what “on-time” is calledrate the–“on-time” students who rate –graduate studentsinwho fourgraduate years. in four years. However, LPS also However, closely LPS tracks also students closely who tracksstay students in school who and stay graduate in school and graduate in five and six years in five - and andwhen six years we include - and when thosewe students, include those the total students, LPS the total LPS ublic we reflect Schools. upon As we reflect upongraduation rate graduation is 89.9 percent. rate is 89.9 percent. er arda to thank express you card to express Student at Lincoln enrollment PublicatSchools Lincolncontinues Public Schools to soar continues with an to soar with an Nebraska State Accountability Nebraska State(NeSA) Accountability achievement (NeSA) scores achievement (assessment scores (assessment Student enrollment ublic upport school of our public school historic 41,760 attending students the school attending district theinschool 2017-18, district an in 2017-18, an based on state standards) based on state for LPS standards) studentsfor areLPS mostly students above are state mostly averages above state averageshistoric 41,760 students our r children, students, ourour children, our increase last of year. 830That overislast an increase year. That ofisalmost an increase 15 percent of almost 15 percent – in fact, LPS scores – in are fact,well LPSabove scoresother are well large above school other districts large in school Nebraska. districts in Nebraska.increase of 830 over oln support PublicofSchools. Lincoln Public Schools. over the past five over years the–past 25 percent five years over – 25 thepercent last decade over –the growth last decade that – growth that • In all grades tested, • In allthe grades percent tested, of LPS thestudents percent proficient of LPS students on NeSAproficient on NeSAis happening throughout is happening the throughout community, the north, community, south, east north, and south, west, east and west, English Language English Arts exceeds Language theArts state exceeds average. the state average. in the older neighborhoods in the older and neighborhoods the newer neighborhoods. and the newer neighborhoods. We have We have

Demographics Demographics

students than at 2,000 fourstudents of our sixathigh fourschools. of our six high schools. • In grades 3-8, •the In percent grades 3-8, of LPS thestudents percent proficient of LPS students on theproficient NeSA-Math on the NeSA-Math more than 2,000more exceeds the state exceeds average the in state everyaverage grade. in Results everyfrom grade. theResults first year from of the first year of using ACT scoresusing for 11th ACT grade scoresachievement for 11th grade indicate achievement the school indicate district theisschool district is above the state above average. the state average.

Lincoln Public Schools sjoel@lps.org Report Annual

Steve Joel

The Lincoln Board TheofLincoln Education Board approved of Education a newapproved Strategic aPlan new Strategic Plan in December 2017, in December with a focus 2017, on academic with a focus success on academic and global success and global citizenship for allcitizenship students, for support all students, for educators, supportfamily for educators, and family and community partnerships, community and partnerships, growth ready and facilities. growth ready The school facilities. The school district spent more district thanspent a year more gathering than acommunity year gathering voices community and voices and developing six themes developing for the six new themes plan, foranthe initiative new plan, thatan included initiative 49that included 49 community sessions community and 3,800 sessions responses and 3,800 from responses communityfrom citizens. community citizens. The six themes would The sixprovide themesfocus would forprovide the school focusdistrict for theover school thedistrict next over the next five years. See the fivecomplete years. See Strategic the complete Plan onStrategic the other Plan side. on the other side.

Superintendent of Schools 2016-17 (402) 436-1601

Strategic Plan Strategic Plan

were ELL immigrant were ELL immigrant & refugee students & refugee students

Lincoln Board of Education Steve Joel lanny.boswell@lps.org

46%46% 3,0943,094

Lincoln Public Schools Lanny Boswell, President

Of our 41,760Of Students... our 41,760 Students... Of our 41,760Of Students... our 41,760 Students...

qualified for freequalified for free or reduced lunchor reduced lunch

The Lincoln Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of 5905 race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital O Street • Lincoln, NE 68510 status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, citizenship status or economic status in its programs, activities and employment, including career and technical education

5905 O Street • Lincoln, NE 68510

were served by were served by special education special education

Lincoln Public Schools

received received gifted services gifted services

Lincoln Public Schools

5,0535,053 7,2897,289

2016-17

270 402,431,270

Of our 41,760Of Students... our 41,760 Students... Of our 41,760Of Students... our 41,760 Students...

Annual Report

ved udget a 2016-17 for $402budget for $402 ng million, educational providing educational ool e 2005-06, district.LPS Since has2005-06, LPS has cents 3142 –tofrom $1.2397. $1.3142 to $1.2397. yightly of $1.2389 lower levy (the of $1.2389 (the cording to 1967-68). to theAccording most to the most fricts 245 in school Nebraska districts in in Nebraska in ecompared state of Nebraska to the state of Nebraska

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

2017-2022 Lincoln Public Schools

S T R AT E G I C P L A N Vision Statement The overarching vision of Lincoln Public Schools is to prepare ALL students to be college, career, and civic-life ready with a goal of 90% on-time graduation.

Future Ready Future Global Ready Citizens Global Citizens

-2022

ategic c Plan Plan

oln Schools Public Schools

Support Academic Support Academic Success forSuccess All Students for All Students

LPS supports students LPS supports as they students explore asinnovative they explore ideas, innovative ideas, evaluate societal evaluate issuessocietal and demonstrate issues and leadership demonstrate leadership potential. Students potential. are given Students opportunities are given opportunities to evaluate to evaluate multiple answers multiple to important answers questions to important andquestions are and are empowered toempowered examine new to examine ways of thinking. new ways LPS of thinking. LPS graduates aregraduates ready for whatever are ready the for whatever future hasthe to offer. future has to offer.

Support for Suppo Educ

LPS students find LPS academic students find success academic through success authentic through authentic learning opportunities, learning opportunities, rigorous standards rigorous andstandards and individualizedindividualized learning. Graduation learning. alone Graduation is not the alone goal,is not the goal, but rather a graduate but rather who a graduate attains core whocompetencies, attains core competencies, monitors theirmonitors own progress, their own and progress, maintainsand a love maintains for a love for learning. learning.

LPS is dedicated LPStois passionate and passio dive process, teacher proce ind professional develo profe learn with thelearn supp

Goal: Research Goal:and Rese im Goal: Investigate Goal: the Investigate feasibility theoffeasibility developing of developing Goal: Expand Goal: delivery Expand model delivery opportunities model opportunities to allow to allow hire, develop, hire, su additional K-12 additional focus programs, K-12 focusstrengthening programs, strengthening for flexible scheduling. for flexible scheduling. quality and qual dive existing focus existing programs, focusand programs, other programming and other programming Action step: Evaluate Action step: the current Evaluate status theof current eLearning status opportunities of eLearningfor opportunities for Action step: Recruit Actionastep: staff reflecti Recru students as an option students forasmeeting an option academic for meeting requirements. academic requirements. options. options. Action step: Expand Actionleadership step: Expan de Action step: Explore Actionalternate step: Explore scheduling alternate models. scheduling models.

Action step: Establish Action step: community Establish partnerships community topartnerships develop andto deliver develop and deliver additional focusadditional program focus opportunities programfor opportunities students. for students.

Action step: Explore Actionopportunities step: Explorethat opportunities include STEM, that STEAM, include STEM, and The STEAM, Arts. and The Arts. Action step: Expand Actioncomputer step: Expand science computer curriculum science andcurriculum add offerings andthat add offerings that reflect industryreflect needs industry and student needs interest. and student interest.

Action step: Review Actionand step: enhance Review teachers in newteache envir

Goal: Expand Goal: plans Expand to address plansmental to address health mental needs health of needs Action of step: students. students.

Action step: Expand Actionpartnerships step: Expand with partnerships community with resource community providers. resource providers. Action step: Develop Action step: plan toDevelop increaseplan student to increase enrollment student at The enrollment Career at The Career Action step: Diversify Action step: mental Diversify health supports mental health to meet supports the complex to meet needs the complex needs Academy (TCA)Academy and program (TCA)enhancement. and program enhancement. of students in crisis. of students in crisis.

Review Actionand step: enhance Review

Goal: Evaluate Goal: district Evalu the impact on thecli performance. perfo

Action step: AsAction resources step:permit, As resources increase permit, staffing increase to support staffing mental to support mental Action step: Review Actionand step: report Review on health needs, including health needs, socialincluding workers, social schoolworkers, counselors, school andcounselors, and ensure alignment ensure wit school psychologists. school psychologists. requirements, and requir co including the allocati includ

Goal: Develop Goal: plans Develop to address plansthe to address need forthe students need for students to have greater to have exposure greater toexposure world languages to worldand languages and cultures. cultures. Action step: Investigate Action step: the Investigate feasibility ofthe anfeasibility elementary of an dual elementary language dual language program. program. Action step: Investigate Action step: the Investigate feasibility ofthe offering feasibility world of language offering world instruction language instruction at the K-5 Level.at the K-5 Level.

Action step: Evaluate Action step: current Evaluate full-daycurrent pilot classrooms. full-day pilot classrooms. Action step: Evaluate Action step: space Evaluate availability space for additional availabilityclassroom for additional sites.classroom sites. Action step: Explore Actioncommunity step: Explore partnerships community topartnerships expand program to expand accessprogram access and locations. and locations.

Goal: Increase Goal: movement Increase opportunities movement opportunities throughout throughout the school day the to school support day developmental, to support developmental, physical, and physical, social needs and social of students. needs of students.

ement

of g vision of repare ls is to prepare areer, ollege, career, oal withofa goal of n. aduation.

All uccess Students for All Students

mic ough success authentic through authentic rds gorous and standards and Graduation ne is not thealone goal,is not the goal, competencies, o attains core competencies, ress, tains and a love maintains for a love for

del ities opportunities to allow to allow g.

Goal: Assess Goal: feasibility Assesstofeasibility expand access to expand to highaccess to highquality earlyquality childhood earlyprograms childhoodthrough programs through additional full-day additional andfull-day part-day and program part-day program options. options.

Action step: Review Actionthe step: feasibility Reviewofthe increased feasibility physical of increased education physical education classroom time.classroom time. Action step: Increase Action step: opportunities Increasebefore, opportunities during, before, and after during, schooland forafter school for student activities student that promote activitiesphysical that promote activity.physical activity.

Support forSupport Educators for Educators

Family & Community Family & Community Partnerships Partnerships

LPS is dedicated LPS toishiring dedicated and supporting to hiring and qualified, supporting qualified, passionate andpassionate diverse staff. andThrough diverse the staff.hiring Through the hiring process, teacher process, induction, teacher mentoring, induction, andmentoring, enhanced and enhanced professional development, professional development, all students willallcontinue studentstowill continue to learn with the learn support with of the master support teachers. of master teachers.

Goal: Research Goal: and Research implement andstrategies implement tostrategies recruit, to recruit, hire, develop, hire, support, develop, andsupport, retain the and highest retain the highest quality and diverse quality staff. and diverse staff.

Lincoln is a community Lincoln isthat a community supports young that supports people young people and public education. and public LPSeducation. partners with LPS community partners with community businesses, organizations, businesses, organizations, non-profits, and non-profits, post-secondary and post-secondary institutions to extend institutions learning to extend beyond learning the classroom beyond the walls. classroom walls. Family and community Family and engagement communityisengagement essential for isstudent essential for student success and growth. successInand LPS,growth. we are committed In LPS, we are to listening committed to listening to and workingtowith andparents workingand with community parents and partners. community partners.

Goal: Work Goal: towardWork providing toward allproviding students access all students to access to full-service community full-service schools community thatschools providethat provide after school after programs. school programs.

portunities of eLearningfor opportunities for Action step: Recruit Actiona step: staff reflective Recruit aofstaff student reflective diversity. of student diversity. meeting c requirements. academic requirements. Action step: Expand Actionleadership step: Expand development leadership and development continuity planning. and continuity planning. g models. Action step: Develop Actionplans step: toDevelop gradually plans expand to gradually full-service expand community full-service community Action step: Review Actionand step: enhance Review mentor and enhance programmentor for newprogram educators forand new educators and schools as resources schools become as resources available. become available. teachers in newteachers environments. in new environments. Action step: Identify Actionstrategies step: Identify to support strategies and strengthen to support and family strengthen family health ress mental needshealth of needsAction of step: Review Actionand step: enhance Review support and enhance systemssupport for educators. systems for educators. engagement. engagement.

urce ommunity providers. resource providers.

he ports complex to meet needs the complex needs

Goal: Evaluate Goal: district Evaluate assessments district assessments to determineto determine the impact on theclassroom impact ontime classroom and student time and student performance. performance.

pport se staffing mental to support mental Action step: Review Actionand step: report Review on the and district reportassessment on the district planassessment to plan to ool ial workers, counselors, school andcounselors, and ensure alignment ensure with state alignment requirements, with stateaccreditation requirements, accreditation requirements, and requirements, connectionsand to instructional connections planning to instructional planning including the allocation includingofthe time allocation and resources. of time and resources.

expand ss to highaccess to highod through programs through nd program part-day program

lot classrooms.

assroom or additional sites.classroom sites.

rships program to expand access program access

opportunities s throughout throughout pport pmental, developmental, dents. eeds of students.

reased education physical education

ore, afterduring, schooland for after school for mote tivity.physical activity.

Action step: Ensure Action that step: all CLC/ELO Ensure that programs all CLC/ELO are consistent programswith are consistent the with the districtâ€™s established districtâ€™s high-quality established standards. high-quality standards.

Growth Ready Growth Facilities Ready&Facilities Infrastructure & Infrastructure Lincoln is a community Lincoln isthat a community values quality that school values quality school facilities and invests facilities in safe, and invests comfortable, in safe,and comfortable, secure and secure learning environments learning for environments students and forstaff. students LPS is and staff. LPS is committed to accommodating committed to accommodating growth, investing growth, in investing in existing facilities, existing and ensuring facilities,the andfacility ensuring investments the facility investments are efficient and arewell efficient maintained. and well maintained.

Goal: Research Goal: and Research developand facility develop plansfacility to address plans to address growing highgrowing school enrollment. high school enrollment. Action step: Receive Actionrecommendations step: Receive recommendations from the High School from the TaskHigh Force School Task Force (May, 2018) and(May, develop 2018) next and steps. develop next steps.

Goal: Continue Goal: to Continue update the toLPS update 10-year the Facilities LPS 10-year Facilities and Infrastructure and Infrastructure Plan. Plan. Action step: Identify Actionthe step: additional Identifyfacilities the additional neededfacilities to support needed student to support student growth consistent growth with consistent changing demographics, with changingincluding demographics, including responding to the responding recommendations to the recommendations from the High School from the High School Task Force. Task Force. Action step: Adopt Action boundary step: Adopt changes boundary and policies changes to maximize and policies theto maximize the utilization of LPSutilization facilities. of LPS facilities. Action step: Explore Actioninnovative step: Explore campus innovative concepts. campus concepts. Action step: Maintain Action step: investments Maintain in existing investments facilities in existing and infrastructure. facilities and infrastructure.

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

Boys and Girls in Kindergarten â€“ 4th grade can join Scouting as a family in select schools around Lincoln! Learn more at www.CornhuskerCouncil.org/familyscouts Learn about camping, rockets, fishing and more in Scouting; join us at camp! www.CornhuskerCouncil.org/cubCamp

r e m m u S mps Ca M

ll H or r i

all

Children journey through time this summer during half-day camps at Morrill Hall! Each day campers will explore natural history and science topics through hands-on activities. Look, Listen, Explore

Mini and Mighty

July 9th - 13th Ages 3 - 5, accompanied by one adult

July 16th - 20th 1st - 2nd Grade

Elephants, Dinos, and Rhinos Oh My!

Naturalists

July 23rd - 27th 2nd - 3rd Grade Museum Members $95 Non-Members $105

July 30th - Aug. 3rd 6th - 8th Grade

UNL does not discriminate based upon any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination.

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

A10

Student helps shed light on Native American issues

Lincoln Southwest High School junior Celisa Phillips organized a speaking event at the school on Jan. 31 that featured the leader of Nebraska’s Ponca Tribe - and Phillips had a straightforward goal for his hour-long appearance. “I wanted to shed light on some of the issues that Native Americans face that people don’t usually hear about,” said Phillips, who also attends the Lincoln Public Schools Arts and Humanities Focus Program. People typically hear stories about historical events and major current events involving Native Americans, she said, but not about everyday issues. The Jan. 31 event with Larry Wright Jr., chair of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, accomplished that goal and more. He not only shared with students the myriad of challenges faced by today’s Native Americans - housing, healthcare, education - but also offered advice for those in the audience who want to get involved. “Be an informed citizen. Vote and be engaged. Know what the issues are,” Wright said to the crowd gathered in the Southwest auditorium. “You can make a difference.” Phillips had been planning the event since September. She’s a member of the school’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter. Phillips entered the event as her project to be judged at the FCCLA district competition Feb. 7 at Waverly High School, where she placed third. “It’s really amazing what she’s done,” said Tracy Way, a Family and Consumer Science teacher at Southwest and one of the school’s FCCLA sponsors, along with fellow teacher Joan Hines. Wright left the students with these parting words: “You are all sitting here as future leaders. Someone in here will be on a city council, or be a mayor, or in the Legislature - there’s that possibility,” he said. “One of our challenges is making sure you don’t hear about Native Americans and these issues for the first time when you’re sitting in those chairs.”

2018

SP RI N G BRE A K A RT

CAMPS

REGISTRAT I ON OPEN N OW ! Each day campers will explore new art techniques, work with real artists, and make their own artwork! LUX camps are led by our skilled teaching artists who will guide your child through hands-on learning in a fun and friendly environment. We offer camps for kids who have completed kindergarten through those who will be starting their senior year of high school.

M A RC H 1 2 - 1 6 AGES 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM 5-8 9-12 9-12 13+

CLAY CREATIONS TWEEN POTTERY WHEEL DRAWING & PAINTING PORTFOLIO PREP WORKSHOP

NEW MAJOR

Sports Media & Communication D O from day one. L E A R N from innovators in their field.

AGES 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

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

5-8 5-8 9-12 13+

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

CLAY CREATIONS ART ZOO TWEEN ART SAMPLER TEEN OPEN CLAY STUDIO

NOW OFFERING: CAMP CARE!

OUR MAJORS

Add morning, lunch, or full day care to your child’s camp registration! OR Pick 2 half-day classes and make it a full day of fun. Add lunch care to your child’s morning and afternoon camps and spend all day making art at the LUX!

Advertising & Public Relations

Journalism

Broadcasting Sports Media & Communication

*(only available to students enrolled in both a morning and afternoon camp)

Visit LUXcenter.org/Camps to register! 2601 N. 48th Street | 402.466.8692

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

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

A11

Fire Station #1 1801 “Q” Street from 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. May 8, 9, 10th (call ahead) Or pick up the day of the event

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

A12

Class combines embroidery, computer programming

You don’t typically see an embroidery machine woven into the curriculum of a computer programming class — but that’s exactly what happened last week at Lincoln Southeast High School. Students in Alan Holdorf’s fourth-period computer programming class used an online program called TurtleStitch. The program allowed them to write computer code for embroidery designs, which were then transferred to a flash drive and plugged into an embroidery machine that stitched the final product on its own. The lesson was the brainchild of Southeast business teacher Jennifer Clark. She borrowed the specialized embroidery machine from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she worked as a research assistant last summer. Clark was on hand Jan. 18 when Holdforf’s students, ranging from 10th to 12th grade, used TurtleStitch to create their own embroidery. They practiced using TurtleStitch for two weeks leading up to the class. “They’re just getting their feet wet about how to tell a computer how to do something,” Clark said. The students learned block coding methods and how to code in loops, which allows for repeat designs as opposed to having to write the same code over and over. Holdorf said the embroidery lesson laid a great foundation for the rest of the semester. “I think the lesson was effective in that the students got interested, and personally invested, in what they were making,” he said. “The interface for the project is approachable so that every student can make something and can see their design come to life.”

FEATURED EXHIBITS AND ACTIVITIES

WEATHERFEST 18th Annual Family Weatherfest and Central Plains Severe Weather Symposium SATURDAY, APRIL 7, 2018

— 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.

• 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 • Renewable energy and natural resources exhibits

LOCATION Nebraska Innovation Campus N 21st St and Salt Creek Roadway / Lincoln, Nebraska FOOD HyVee will have a food truck with “family friendly” priced snacks and meals throughout the day.

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

STATE FARM KE YNOTE SPE AKER Ben McMillan WeatherNation

Photo credit: Ryan McGinnis

WEATHERFEST IS PROUD TO BE A “WEATHER-READY NATION” AMBASSADOR

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. © 2018 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska. All rights reserved.

March 2018 | Community News | Section A

A13

PRAIRIE HILL Learning Center CHILDREN AND NATURE TOGETHER SINCE 1981

Summer Camps for Ages 6-13 Various Camps from June 4 to August 3, 2018 One-Week Camps: $190 (ages 6-13) Two-Week Camps: $380 (ages 6-9) // $395 (ages 10-13) Choose from our variety of camps including Animal Encounters, Music Variety, Artful Antics and more. 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 19-22 & June 26-29 Session II: July 10-13 & 17-20 Session III: July 24-27 & July 31-August 3 Each session includes eight days, Tues. - Fri. 9AM to 12:30PM Price Per Session: $320 Your child will enjoy a rich, natural PRAIRIE HILL experience through gardening, leisurely walks in the pasture, egg-gathering, 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 2018 | Community News | Section A

A14

Home Run for Health Friday, June 22 • Haymarket Park Pregame Activities: 4:30-7 p.m. • • • • •

More than 30 exhibitors with interactive health and safety activities Meet and greet with Lincoln Saltdogs players Bounce houses and play area One lucky child will be invited to throw the first pitch Every child will receive a glow necklace

Tickets available May 1 at: saltdogs.com/bryanhomerun • General Admission Berm Seat - FREE • Reserved Seat - $6 Both ticket levels include admittance to the Home Run for Health pregame activities.

Baseball Game: 7:05 p.m. Lincoln Saltdogs vs. Chicago Dogs

Fireworks Show: Following the game Thank you to our presenting partners, Sampson Construction and Union Bank & Trust.

Healthy Kids Drawing Contest What is your favorite way to stay healthy? Draw a picture below of one of your favorite activities or healthy habits.

First Name_____________________

Age _______

Kids up to age 12 are invited to participate!

Please complete:

All entries will be displayed at Home Run for Health on Friday, June 22. The winner of the drawing contest will be invited to throw the first pitch at the Lincoln Saltdogs game.

Child’s first and last name: Guardian’s first and last name: Phone number: ( ) -

Cut out on dotted line above and mail to: Bryan East Campus Attn: Kids’ Club 1600 S. 48th St. Lincoln, NE 68506 Postmark by: Saturday, June 9