October 2020
Where I’m From N O R W O O D PA R K E L E M E N TA R Y
This is the first in a series of stories, “Where I’m From,” about LPS elementary school teachers who returned to teach at their old schools.
SECTION A: A2 Dr. Joel’s blog A3 TeamMates of the Month A4 LPS Wellness A5 Sustainability at LPS A6 Bilingual liaisons vital to district AVID program takes on achievement gap A8 ConnectLPS
Rosie Gomez teaches fifth grade in room 203 at Norwood Park Elementary School. The room holds a special place in her heart - and not only because she loves her job and her students.
A10 Price named equity, inclusion director A11 Teachers find way to connect remotely KLKN-TV to stream varsity games
This is the same room where Gomez attended fifth grade more than 10 years ago.
A12 Youth Development Team advocates
“It was a long time ago but let me tell you when you come back, you definitely relive those times,” said Gomez, in her second year at Norwood Park. “You’re like, ‘Oh, I remember when this happened,’ or, ‘I remember what this teacher did for me.’ It’s special.”
SECTION B: B1 Roots run deep at West Lincoln Independence Academy at zoo
She uses the word “special” a lot when describing Norwood Park and the surrounding neighborhood in northeast Lincoln. She grew up two blocks away from school, in the house where her mom still lives. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and student-taught in Costa Rica.
B2 Budget highlights Board of Education B3 CLCs adapt B4 MOSAIC display B6 Teachers honored B7 LPS Wellness
“I want students to know their future is filled with endless opportunities and I can only hope to be a part of getting them there.” When she returned to Lincoln she started working as a substitute teacher for Lincoln Public Schools. She ended up at Norwood Park and had an experience that proved to be serendipitous. She was in the library when she heard a voice say, “Are you Rosie?” It was her fifth-grade teacher, Gary Zellweger. He was everyone’s favorite teacher, she said. “I didn’t think he would know who I was,” Gomez said. “He gave me a big hug. It was crazy and it made me feel even more welcome here.” When Zellweger retired shortly thereafter, Gomez was hired to fill his position. She hopes to continue his legacy. “It was special to have him retire and pass down his position to me in my first year of teaching,” she said.
B8 Bands march on B9 LPS, Kawasaki partner on grant B10 Menus B12 Theater photos Community events advertised in Community News are privatelysponsored events that are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Lincoln Public Schools. Lincoln Public Schools makes no representations about the absence of COVID-19 at these events.
She swells with pride when talking about Norwood Park, which is typically the smallest school in LPS in terms of enrollment. “Norwood Park is small but the relationships you make are meaningful and they last. It makes me feel much more closely tied to what I am doing because I'm a direct result of what can come out of the school,” Gomez said. “I want students to know their future is filled with endless opportunities and I can only hope to be a part of getting them there.” “I want them to know they’re special,” she later added. There’s that word again.
Community News is a publication of Lincoln Public Schools. If you have any questions about this publication please contact Jason Keese, 436-1619; or Mindy Burbach, 436-1609; Lincoln Public Schools P.O. Box 82889 Lincoln, NE 68501-2889
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A2
Rising to the challenge In light of the prolific challenges we have faced in recent months, I am incredibly proud of our staff and students for being able to make the most of a situation that everyone wants to disappear. While summer planning for schools opening was intense, actually executing the plan was even more so. The dedicated commitment of our educators and the staff that support them is what has mattered most. Teachers, for example, have been asked to teach students in-class and remotely. This has not been an easy task and many teachers have reported that the time required to ensure that all students get what they deserve is far greater than they had anticipated. For that reason, we have looked to lighten their load so they are able to focus on their most important work.
Dr. Steve Joel
LPS Superintendent
As I write this, the COVID-19 numbers are increasing throughout our county. Many people are feeling cooped up and unsettled about what the future might hold. We are hearing from parents who want us to move back to 100% high school and from teachers and parents who would like us to go 100% remote. While our intent is to continue with our existing plan, we need everyone to do all they can to decrease the spread. Before leaving home, please continue to self-screen for symptoms, wear face coverings when in public, practice good hand hygiene and maintain physical distance when possible. Every headline about increased infections escalates concern but I believe our protocols have made our schools as safe as any gathering can be. Our students and staff have done wonderfully with wearing face coverings and maintaining distance. Again, I am very proud of the commitment of our students, parents and staff. Nobody can predict what the future may hold, although there are many predictions circulating in the media. However, I can predict that we – all of LPS – will continue to rise to the occasion and provide the highest possible educational experience for ALL of our students. After all, that has been and will continue to be our legacy. Read more posts from Dr. Joel’s blog at: https://wp.lps.org/sjoel.
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A3
September TeamMates of the Month
Caylie and Sam: A creative connection Caylie and Sam love to create. Caylie enjoys animation and drawing characters she invents. Sam owns a photography business and sketches for fun. Yet their longstanding creation is the bond they have formed through TeamMates over the last eight years. Caylie was a fourth-grader at Kooser Elementary when she was paired with her mentor Sam, and is now beginning her senior year at North Star. “It’s kind of unbelievable and really cool at the same time how this little commitment of one visit a week over a long period of time can have such a difference on both of our lives. It’s been really cool to see,” reflects Sam. “It’s just been so rewarding in so many ways.” Caylie showed talent in art at an early age, but was having trouble focusing at school when she was nominated for TeamMates. “My mom and my teachers noticed that I got really stressed in class and thought if I had a TeamMate I’d be able to talk with someone and take a break from class,” explains Caylie. “And she helped me with that; she helped me feel less stress. It’s just really nice to talk to someone about my day.” You’ll typically find the pair drawing while chatting away about life during their visits. Once, Sam brought a camera to school to introduce Caylie to another art form. Around Halloween, they have a tradition of painting pumpkins and eating cupcakes. Occasionally, they work on an art project together, depending on what Caylie prefers to do that day. Sam enjoys letting Caylie guide their visits. “From an early age I kind of let Caylie lead what we were doing in a sense and use the time for whatever she needed it to be.” Having someone so understanding to talk to about anything has been Caylie’s favorite part of being a TeamMate. Soon they will explore options for the young artist’s post-secondary education and possible career paths. “I’d like to be a character designer, animator, or maybe graphic
designer,” says Caylie. Sam has loved watching Caylie’s artistic growth. “I’m shocked that one person can be so talented. She will probably work for Disney one day.”
“Sam’s so nice,” says Caylie, humbled. “Sometimes I’m like ‘I don’t deserve these compliments!’” “Oh, you hush,” laughs Sam. “Yes, you do!”
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A4
Health Column: Egg-cellent nutrition options By Michelle Welch How often do you take advantage of eggs as part of your nutrition approach? Eggs are a nutrition powerhouse, with one egg providing the same protein as one ounce of meat. Inexpensive and easy to make, they can help keep you full and work well both in meals and snacks. Years ago, eggs received a black eye, back in the cholesterol fearing days. Now, with clearer research outcomes, we better understand the nutrition advantages and impacts,
which has cleared the path to more eggs being included into healthy eating plans. If you are a kitchen novice, eggs are a great place to start in building your kitchen skills. If you’d like to learn tips on how to prepare quick and easy eggs, I’ve created 90-second videos to help. Go to LNKTV Health on YouTube and search “Eggs In the Kitchen with Michelle Welch.” Oven baked, boiled, microwaved and more, building eggs into your family’s meal plan can make great sense.
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A5
Irving Middle School green team members in their litter clean up gear on Nov. 19, 2019.
Sustainability at Lincoln Public Schools
The Lincoln Public Schools Sustainability Team is kicking off the fifth year of the Green Schools Recognition Program. This program is for all schools to participate in throughout the year by completing various sustainability-related activities. Participating is simple and easy:
1. Choose activities to complete:
• There is a list of activities available to choose from, or you can develop your own. • These might be completed by the whole school, a grade level, a classroom, or a smaller group, like an environmental club.
2. Report activities online:
• Make sure you get some photos while doing your activity and submit this information online to earn points • Activities can be reported by teachers, CLC staff, or anyone else helping coordinate
3. Be recognized and rewarded
• All schools are eligible to earn sustainability project funding and be recognized for their efforts. • The top elementary and the top secondary schools will each be awarded $500 in project funding.
Last year, 15 schools participated and reported over 200 green activities. Participating schools earned a total of $1,450 in sustainability project funding.
Southeast High School ‘Neature’ Club members hanging their recycling posters on Jan. 21, 2020.
Families are also encouraged to check out the list of activities for some great ideas to do at home. We know it is important to have flexible and adaptable activities that can be done at school or remotely, and engaging in sustainability is no exception! There are plenty of resources available to learn more about how we can reduce our impact on the environment and live more sustainably. Check them out at https://home.lps.org/sustainability/
Sample of activities: • • • • • •
Growing a garden Making recycling reminder posters Doing a community litter clean up Calculating your carbon footprint Advocating for an idle free campus Organizing a walk/bike to school day
Level
Points
Sustainability Funding
Green
100-149 points
$50
Greener
150-224 points
$100
Greenest
225 points or more
$200
Top Elementary & Top Secondary
$500
Students at Mickle Middle School harvesting from their garden on Sept. 23, 2019.
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A6
Bilingual liaisons play vital role at LPS The LPS bilingual liaisons play a crucial role in the education and well-being of our students and families. We recently spoke with Oscar Pohirieth, the specialist and coordinator for the Bilingual Liaison Program, to learn more about these dedicated LPS employees.
our families with basic technology literacy. I am happy to report that our families - immigrant, refugee families - are getting the message that technology and the use of Zoom, the use of LPS portal, the use of communication lines in terms of technology, will be keys for the advancement in the area of education for their students.
LPS Communications: For people who don't know, talk about what you do and the role of bilingual liaisons at Lincoln Public Schools.
LPS Communications: You mentioned one of the key roles of the liaisons is connecting families to community resources, and I'm sure that was even more important over these last five or six months. What kind of work did they do in those areas? What were some important connections they made?
Oscar Pohirieth: I serve in the capacity of cultural specialist and bilingual liaison coordinator for this district. I have the pleasure of working with 24 bilingual liaisons who speak 13 of the major languages spoken within Lincoln Public Schools. What we do is serve as the cultural broker. We serve as the main line of communication between schools and the homes of immigrant and refugee students and families. So every piece of information that goes from this district to the homes, we are able to translate, we are able to communicate with those families. And any information that comes from those homes back to the district, we're also able to communicate with our educators. We are that link of communication, not only within Lincoln Public Schools, but we also are aware of community services out there. So our families can have access to that much needed help in terms of emergencies or in this particular case, COVID-19.
in-person education. But if I were to think back to what happened in March, and all of a sudden everything shutting down, we all had to come to an emergency mode in terms of the fact that we needed to reach out to all of our families in this district and be able to communicate effectively in their native languages, and be able to LPS Communications: What role say, “Look, this is what's going to happen now. Now remote learning did the liaisons play last March will be taking place at home, and when the pandemic arrived? now you're going to have to use technology, and now you're going Oscar Pohireth: I believe the to have to understand how to get bilingual liaisons have played a into Zoom and how to communivery important role when it came cate with your teachers, and now to the communication of remote you're going to have to learn how learning during that time - and to use Gmail, how to use the LPS today- about remote learning and
portal, how to send and receive information” - that was overwhelming. Our families were not ready to receive that type of information, were not ready to learn overnight that type of information and technology skills. So it took - and it is taking - a great deal of time and effort on the part of the bilingual liaisons and on the part of the families in order to get the idea that this is the new normal. LPS Communications: How has it been going since the start of school? Oscar Pohireth: Well, I think since March we have had a chance to educate our families, to prepare
Oscar Pohireth: Meeting the family’s needs in terms of how to have access to food, how to have access to healthcare, how to have access to housing, paying bills, how to have access to mental health these are things that yes, Lincoln Public Schools understands that we need to help our families, because we may not directly offer those services. But if we communicate with our community, we may be able to find help, and that's where cultural centers come in handy, because they have direct resources for these families. Bilingual liaisons were able to tell their families, if you go to the Hispanic Center, this is where you're going to receive help, or if you go to the Center for People in Need, this is where you're going to find food and certain items, or if you go to the Asian Community and Cultural Center, these are the services that they provide. We have to be aware of what we have available out there, so even though we focus our attention in the area of education, we cannot miss the fact that we have other service providers out there that are also intentionally helping all families.
New program aims to narrow achievement gap A new program at Lincoln Northeast High School is designed to provide the necessary skills and support to students who want to reach their full academic potential and attend a four-year college. The program is called AVID - an acronym for Advancement Via Individual Determination - and it’s actually an elective course that students take their entire time at Northeast, preferably starting in ninth grade. Students learn “college-going skills,” things like how to take focused notes, set goals, work in groups, think more critically and ask higher order questions of their teachers and classmates. They also are expected to take at least one advanced class for which they’ll receive targeted tutorials as part of AVID. During a normal school year, they’ll go on college visits, field trips and hear from guest speakers. More than 100 ninth- and tenth-graders are currently enrolled, with the ultimate goal of reaching 200, said Jon Davidson, the program’s coordinator. Counselors and teachers identified potential students last year. The majority of those chosen could be the first in
their family to go to college. “We’re trying to close the achievement gap by addressing the opportunity gap,” Davidson said. Although it stresses college, the program also aims to prepare students for a career after high school if that’s the route they choose. Last year Davidson asked his fellow teachers and staff to list the at-
tributes they felt are necessary to succeed in college and in a career. The responses were identical, with skills such as the ability to communicate and to be organized. “There was an exact overlay between the two,” he said. Jazmine Laguna is one of the students in the program. The
ninth-grader said she’s already learned a lot, including how to set goals. Right now her ultimate goal is entering a good career after graduating from Northeast. She believes the AVID program can help her get there. “I felt like I maybe needed a little extra help to stay organized,” she said. “I really like it so far.”
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A8
ConnectLPS
Here’s some of our favorite photos from LPS schools in the past month. Want to see more? Connect with your school’s social media at lps.org/connect.
Meadow Lane Elementary School Partner work
Eastridge Elementary School
Irving Middle School
“Mrs. Day and her mobile library make the rounds! Thank you for keeping great books in the hands of our students!”
“80s to the max! Our staff totally rocked the style of the best decade ever, dude! L to R: Mr. Bayne, Ms. Marvin, Mr. Russell, Mrs. Davenport”
Scott Middle School
“Mrs. Oldberding’s Design Thinking class is at it again! This time they are using teamwork to build towers out of cups, without touching them. #WeScottThis”
Randolph Elementary School
Saratoga Elementary School
“Mrs. King and her students took advantage of the beautiful day to do a little reading in the outdoor classroom.”
“Fourth grade with Mrs. Davis attended the virtual Cunningham One-Room School House field trip. The class traveled back in time to 1892 to learn about what school was like in Nebraska. They got to practice cursive, learn how butter was made, play ‘find the thimble,’ had a spelling bee, and so much more!”
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A9
Norwood Park Elementary School
Science Focus Program
“Lunchtime is a favorite part of the daily schedule for these friends. Thank you to our amazing kitchen crew for making and serving yummy meals to our students every day!”
“Advanced Chem. Problem solving!”
The Career Academy
“A little sample of what hands-on learning looks like at The Career Academy! #doinghighschooldifferently”
Hill Elementary School
Moore Middle School
“Mrs. Anttila’s 4th grade class has made the beginning of the year a ‘slam dunk’ and one to remember!”
“We are so thankful for the tyrannosaurus effort and support from all the Moore families and staff!”
Beattie Elementary School
“First graders learned about a frog’s life cycle !”
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A10
Vann Price named LPS director of equity, diversity and inclusion Lincoln Public Schools recently announced that Vann Price has been named the school district’s director of equity, diversity and inclusion, a newly created position. Price also will remain the school district’s supervisor of secondary personnel services. As part of her new role, Price will: work closely with the LPS Executive Cabinet on the school district’s goal of strengthening equity, diversity and inclusion; meet regularly with the LPS superintendent and make recommendations regarding school district policies and procedures related to equity; work closely with the LPS equity, diversity and multicultural administrator to advance the initiatives of the LPS Multicultural Office; and serve as a liaison between LPS administration and principals to advance cultural proficiency work at schools. “We are excited to have Dr. Price involved with the Executive Cabinet,” said LPS Superintendent Steve Joel. “She has had a distinguished LPS career as an educator and administrator. She brings vast experience to our work developing strategies to increase staff diversity and assist the district in strengthening inclusion and equity for all students and staff.” Price began her career with LPS as a fourth-grade teacher at Humann Elementary School in 1990. She then taught at Campbell Elementary School before moving to Lincoln North Star High School as associate principal when the school opened in 2002. In 2011, she was named North Star principal, a role she held until 2018 when she moved to the Human Resources Department at LPS District Office. Price earned her Bachelor of Science in Education (Elementary Education) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; her Master of Education (Curriculum and Instruction) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; her Educational Specialist Certificate in Educational Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln; and her Doctorate in Education (Educational Administration) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her doctoral dissertation was titled, “The Quest for Success: A Phenomenological Study Aimed at Understanding the Experiences of Successful African American Females in High School.”
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A11
Teachers finding ways to connect via Zoom Belmont Elementary School firstgrade teacher Hailey Greene stood in front of her 23 students and pulled out a small marker board, ready to dive into the day’s next lesson.
Baker said it was helpful that LPS delayed remote learning until the fourth day of elementary school. This allowed her to establish routines with her in-class students.
But there was one more thing to do before she started sounding out words and letters.
“Now they can be more independent when I need to focus on my Zoom students,” she said.
“Friends on Zoom, Ms. Greene is going to move you right up close so you can see my letters,” said the first-year teacher as she looked down at the seven students staring back at her on an iPad.
Both teachers not only make sure their Zoom students are learning the material, but that they feel like a part of the class.
As of Wednesday, Aug. 26, there were 8,927 students who had opted for 100 percent remote learning, or 22 percent of all LPS students.
“Whether they’re in person or in class, I still feel like I’m seeing them every day and I’m teaching them every day. They’re learning every day.”
Greene is one of thousands of Lincoln Public Schools teachers adjusting to teaching classes filled with both in-class and online students. Greene and Belmont thirdgrade teacher Samantha Baker both described it as a juggling act but, like juggling, it’s slowly getting easier with practice.
fourth year at Belmont. “I would say the kids are getting more used to it. I think it’s just a matter of getting into that routine of school the same way kids have done when they’re in person.”
“Overall it definitely gets better every day,” said Baker, in her
Said Greene: “My first-grade kiddos on remote learning are doing
an amazing job. They answer my questions when I call on them. When we do math routines and we're counting with our fingers, they all have their fingers up in the air. They show me their marker boards every time I ask them to write our high frequency words.”
“Anytime during the day when I can turn that camera around and they can see their friends in the classroom is a good thing,” Greene said. Connecting with students through remote learning was a challenge during the fourth quarter last school year, Baker said. That’s improved this year, thanks to synchronous learning and the use of Zoom. “Whether they're in person or in class, I still feel like I'm seeing them every day and I'm teaching them every day. They're learning every day.”
KLKN-TV partners with LPS to stream varsity games Lincoln Public Schools is excited to announce a partnership with local ABC affiliate KLKN-TV to stream 29 varsity athletic competitions this fall. The lineup includes varsity football games played at Seacrest Field and six varsity volleyball matches around Lincoln. The games can be found on the station’s website: klkntv.com “This is an excellent opportunity for students, staff, families and our community to view these competitions and celebrate our student-athletes,” said Kathi Wieskamp, LPS director of athletics. “We are thankful for the partnership with KLKN-TV to engage our community while helping to keep everyone safe with the protocols we have in place.”
FOOTBALL October 1st at 7:00 Norfolk vs. Lincoln Southwest 2nd at 4:30 Lincoln Northeast vs. Lincoln High 2nd at 8:15 Papillion-La Vista vs. Lincoln Southeast 9th at 4:30 North Platte vs. Lincoln East 9th at 8:15 Papillion La Vista vs. Lincoln Southwest
“High school football and volleyball are huge pillars in our community each fall,” added Kern Dant, KLKN general manager. “We found it imperative to do everything we can to ensure that friends and family can watch during these trying times. We are your trusted news and sports source and if it matters to you it matters to us.”
15th at 7:00 Gretna vs. Lincoln Southeast
LPS also is looking into other streaming possibilities for additional varsity competitions.
23rd at 4:30
16th at 4:30 Lincoln High vs. Lincoln Southwest 16th at 8:15 Lincoln East vs. Lincoln Northeast
Lincoln Southwest vs. Lincoln North Star 23rd at 8:15 Creighton Prep vs. Lincoln East
VOLLEYBALL September 15th at 6:30 Fremont vs Lincoln High 22nd at 6:30 Norfolk vs Lincoln Northeast 29th at 6:30 Lincoln North Star vs Lincoln Southwest
October 6th at 6:30 Grand Island vs Lincoln North Star 12th at 6:30 Lincoln Southwest vs Lincoln East 13th at 6:30 Lincoln North Star vs Lincoln Southeast
October 2020 | Community News | Section A
A12
Youth Development Team advocates for scholars, families, community The LPS Youth Development Team plays a crucial role in the education and well-being of our students and families. We recently spoke with Pete Ferguson, coordinator of the Youth Development Team.
and English - we really do recognize that, everybody is aware of that. I think as we tweak and look at things, we definitely want our scholars to be proficient in those areas. But what our advocates did was make sure that scholars and families remained connected to the value of school, and I think that's something that when you're gone for five or six months and you see the community or you see some social unrest, how do you keep people engaged to the value of school? They were that link, they were a human device that was more important than any hotspot or anything else. They were the connectors to school and what the value of Lincoln Public Schools can be to them, not only at that time, but also moving forward in the future.
LPS Communications: Describe the LPS Youth Development Team and the role you play with the school district. Pete Ferguson: I serve as the coordinator for the Youth Development Team and it's just a fantastic group of individuals who empower scholars and work with families and support staff. I often say they're the behind the scenes individuals - but they're always on the scene. What they do is work from a strengths-based perspective. They serve as a liaison and an advocate that supports families, supports scholars’ well-being, helps enhance and helps scholars go towards those hopes and dreams that their families have for them. They want them to fulfill whatever their fullest potential might be. We have a number of individuals that just have a tremendous amount of talent and experience in different areas. There are individuals who have taught, individuals who have been veterans and served this country, accountants, people who are proficient in nonprofit organizations - a real eclectic group that has come together with a like mind and a similar philosophy, which at the core is building relationships - not supplanting and not enabling, but empowering wherever they may go and having a presence. They can't be everywhere in the district - we're a small but mighty group of individuals, but they have an essence, so they may not be on the south side of town for that day, but there's an essence that there's an African American advocate within the district who can support, enhance, advocate and provide awareness in a positive way. We'd like to have more
LPS Communications: How about the transition back to school? How has that gone?
of a physical presence with more bodies, just like we'd like to have more teachers and administrators, but I think the nice part is that these individuals are not only there on a day- to-day basis, but they're immersed in the communities that they serve. You know, there’s no clock from 8:00 to 5:00 or 8:00 to 4:30, it really is a 24-hour passion and an investment that they make. LPS Communications: Take us back to last March, and then through the summer, what was that work like for your team? Pete Ferguson: I like to say that, contrary to popular belief, there have been no days off, and I don't say that in a way for empathy
or “Wow!”. I think our teachers invested a tremendous amount, our administration, our community supports - a lot of people. But for our advocates, I think March heightened what they have been, what they are, and what they will continue to do. People ask what changed - did you increase your support, increase your services? We continue to do a lot of what we had done, and that's about engaging, and so what I have to do is give them credit because we did a great job. We did a great job of trying to get devices out and connecting people, and we recognize that not everybody was connected to math, science
Pete Ferguson: I think there are always things that you would love to go - I don't wanna’ say smoother, but what I always say is, you want to see our scholars where they belong. But wherever they're at is where they belong, as long as it's not at the mall between 8:00 and 3:00 on a weekday. (laughs) You know, if it's at home and that's where the safety and the comfort and the wraparound can be, our advocates are providing that support and we recognize that. If it's in the halls of Belmont Elementary School, or if it's at Southeast or North Star or Lincoln High, our advocates are there. I have to give them a tremendous amount of credit because, I’ll say it again, they have not taken a day off. They don't look for that credit, they don't look for those awards, they don't look for those socially distant high fives, but what I will tell you is they make a tremendous difference and they have enhanced any of the success that I feel like we have had as a district in terms of engagement.
October 2020
Custodian’s roots run deep at West Lincoln Elementary Brandon Rogers’ family tree is firmly planted at West Lincoln Elementary School and the surrounding neighborhood. And those roots run deep. He works as a custodian at West Lincoln, the school he attended as a fifth-grader. His two children attend West Lincoln. His wife went to West Lincoln and so did her dad and uncles. His two brothers go to West Lincoln, as do nephews and nieces and the children of longtime friends. “It’s pretty awesome, when you go to do something in the hallway and you see your son washing his hands and he gives you a big high five or a ‘Hey, dad’ - that’s pretty nice,” Rogers said. “It makes you feel good. It makes you want to get up and go to work.” Rogers moved to Lincoln from Texas in 2005. He only attended West Lincoln for one semester but the experience had a lasting impact. Current West Lincoln Principal Scott Schwartz was principal at the time and helped Rogers with the adjustment. “He definitely touches a lot of kids’ hearts and I was one of them,” Rogers said. “He definitely made the move a lot easier, comforting me and I do remember him checking up on me throughout the day. I can still see him doing things like that to this day.” Schwartz has only some memory of Rogers’ short time as a West Lincoln student; he has much more to say about him as a staff member. Rogers says he likes to go above and beyond his job description and Schwartz agrees. “It’s great to have someone working in your building who is so fully invested in everything they do to make a difference for the school and just to make this place run like it does,” Schwartz said, later adding, “The kids know Brandon and he knows about them. He’s always positive. The way he redirects kids, he understands kids in a way that not everybody does...He’s able to just have that presence that we need - that every school needs.” Rogers also understands the West Lincoln neighborhood,
“The kids know Brandon and he knows about them. He’s always positive. The way he redirects kids, he understands kids in a way that not everybody does...He’s able to just have that presence that we need - that every school needs.” his home for most of his life. That’s a tremendous asset, Schwartz said. “This summer I would drive through the neighborhood and he would say, ‘Hey, I heard you were in the neighborhood last night,’” he said. “He gives me a pulse of what’s going on and how everyone is doing. It’s great to have him to be able to get that instant feedback about what’s going on.”
Rogers said he and his wife could move to a different neighborhood. He could choose to work at a different school. But West Lincoln and the surrounding community are home. “Long story short, we didn’t need to get up and go somewhere else. Sending my kids here, knowing that the principal was my principal - it feels like home.”
Independence Academy adds site at children’s zoo The mission of the Lincoln Public Schools Independence Academy is to prepare special education students ages 18-21 for a positive transition into adult living. One thing there was no preparing these students for was their excitement about one of the program’s new sites this school year: the Lincoln Children’s Zoo. “They love it. They’re having such a great time,” said special education teacher Alysia Smith. The new site is the latest result of a longtime partnership between LPS and the zoo, which also has hosted the LPS Science Focus Program for more than 20 years. “We have a long, long history of great collaboration, so when LPS reached out to us, we said absolutely, we’re a great place for students to learn skills and grow,” said John Chapo, the zoo’s president and CEO.
“They get a sense of pride that they are completing jobs that everybody else is doing. They’re working alongside their peers, they’re working alongside people without disabilities, and they are doing such wonderful work.”
Independence Academy students take on a variety of tasks at the zoo, including grooming goats, weeding and mulching, and hanging lights for the annual holiday light show. “They get a sense of pride that they are completing jobs that everybody else is doing,” Smith said. “They're working alongside their peers, they're working alongside people without disabilities, and they are doing such wonderful work. They feel such pride and ownership.”
In the future, Science Focus Program students will serve as mentors and work with Independence Academy students. Some already feel a connection - multiple Science Focus Program students have siblings who are part of the Independence Academy. “I know that peer-to-peer interaction will be a great benefit to the students of the Science Focus Program and the Independence Academy,” said James Blake, LPS director of strategic initiatives and focus programs. “There’s just so much opportunity here for the students,” Smith added. More about the Independence Academy: The Lincoln Public Schools Independence Academy - formerly known as the Vocational Opportunity in Community Experience (VOICE) program - primarily serves special education students ages 18-21. The mission of the Independence Academy is to help students with disabilities gain the skills and connections they need to facilitate a positive transition into adult living. The program started more than 25 years ago and currently serves 122 students. The program’s goal is for students to learn about independence, career development, developing self and academics. They gain community-based work and life experience at various sites throughout Lincoln, including The Bay, Embassy Suites, The Career Academy and Food Bank of Lincoln.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B2
Highlights of LPS 2020-21 budget The Lincoln Board of Education passed the 2020021 budget for Lincoln Public Schools at its Sept. 8 meeting. The budget totals about $460.4 million, an expenditure budget increase less than one-half percent. It provides no increase in the overall property tax levy and a continued emphasis on student needs, including an increase in funding for Early Childhood Education and school counselors. The budget minimized reductions to the Multicultural and Equity Office and Special Education Department. Other highlights of the 2020-21 budget include: • LPS experienced a significant drop in State Equalization Aid for the second year in a row - approximately $20.2 million reduction this year and $13.6 million last school year. • LPS has seen continued growth in enrollment, with historic highs of 42,297 students in 2019-20 and a 15 percent increase over the last decade. • There is an $11 million reduction in the General Fund budget; the one-half percent increase is the result of negotiated staff agreements. • The budget does not eliminate programs, nor does it result in a reduction in force. Position reductions are through attrition. • Other reductions include cutting department budgets by three percent. Overall reductions were made through decreasing contracted services, equipment and supply account lines, and all out-of-state travel. • There is a $1.05 levy in the General Fund levy with the expectation that the total district levy will stay flat. Despite this year’s unique circumstances, LPS relied on a solid process for budget development that includes multiple opportunities for community feedback. There were two public forums, along with a series of work sessions in June and July. A public hearing was held Aug. 24. Visit lps.org for more information.
BOARD OF EDUCATION The Lincoln Board of Education is committed to providing the highest quality education for all students in Lincoln Public Schools. The Board sees the primary mission of the schools to be the development of responsible adults: • who are productive citizens of a pluralistic community, nation and world; • who are prepared to learn throughout their lives; and • who are appreciative of the arts, history and culture. As the elected governing body of the School District, the Board believes in sharing its decision-making processes with parents, students, other citizens and staff members. Board Members are elected by district to four-year terms and serve without pay.
Meeting Broadcasts All meetings are broadcast live and rebroadcast on a variety of cable providers: Allo channel 23, Spectrum channel 1303, Windstream Kinetic Streaming TV Channel 31 and Windstream Kinetic IPTV Channel 1080. Past meetings are viewable here. Notices of the time and place of the Lincoln Board of Education meeting (Policy 8410) are e-mailed to an extensive list of local and regional news media. A mailing list is maintained at the Lincoln Public Schools District Office. A public notice is published in the Lincoln Journal Star.
Meeting Schedule Board meetings are normally held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Both meetings are held at 6 p.m.. Meetings are held at the LPS District Office located at 5905 O Street.
2020 Meeting Dates
2021 Meeting Dates
October 13 October 27 November 10 November 24 December 8 December 22
January 12 January 26 February 9 February 23 March 23 April 13
April 27 May 11 May 17 (Organizational Mtg) May 25
Opinions may be expressed to the Board in writing, and will be distributed to Board Members. Written comments to the Board may be addressed to: Lincoln Board of Education Lincoln Public Schools P.O. Box 82889 Lincoln, NE 68501
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B3
CLCs adapt as community hubs Lincoln's Community Learning Centers are still finding ways to engage students and families, whether that's via Zoom at Belmont Elementary School or more traditional, classroom-based STEM activities at Prescott Elementary School. The city’s 29 CLCs are located in schools throughout the city. They provide a fun, educational delivery system that uses neighborhood schools as the central gathering place for students, families and neighborhoods. CLC clubs provide high-quality academic and enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children. These clubs offer a variety of activities that complement and amplify what they’re learning in school. CLC clubs help develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills, as well as encourage community and parent engagement for the success of children.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B4
2020-21 MOSAIC Display Lincoln Public Schools Library Services
T
he MOSAIC Committee selects, reviews, and promotes books that authentically and realistically portray the diversity of all students, from both historical and contemporary perspectives. MOSAIC began as an initiative by the Lincoln Public Schools Library Services Department to meet the Nebraska Department of Education Rule 16 (later rolled into Rule 10) requiring libraries to provide current and unbiased multicultural resources. In 1991, the first multicultural committee formed to review books for the first MOSAIC exhibit displayed at the district office. The MOSAIC has grown from a small in-house display to a regional exhibit visited by administrators, school staff and students, professors, college students, parents, grandparents and community members from around the southeast Nebraska area. For years, many LPS librarians hosted the display in their school libraries for a few weeks offering students and teachers the opportunity to review and read the books. The MOSAIC has continued to evolve to meet the needs of our changing and digital society. In 2016, the display was reformatted to be more interactive for students and staff. Books were paired with QR codes leading students to further their learning through videos, audio clips, and book trailers. The display included interactive experiences such as access to popular music from around the world and virtual reality technology which allowed students to experience historical sites and major world cities. In 2018, the committee created a digital MOSAIC display. Students and teachers now access book reviews, eBooks, audiobooks, and extension videos from this online display. The digital display also includes three promotional videos for teachers and librarians to show to students to encourage them to read a variety of books that reflect all kinds of lives. The physical display continues to be on display every fall at the LPS district office, and the books and materials are available to borrow from LPS Library Services.
MOSAIC Book Selection Each year, the LPS Library Services MOSAIC Committee comprised of literature-savvy teachers and librarians scour educational journals and review sources to select newly published multicultural materials to review for the MOSAIC. Resources are purchased from both major publishing houses and small independent publishers. Every resource is reviewed by committee members for accuracy, authenticity, content and perspective, characterization, setting, and literary quality. Only the "best of the best" resources are included in the MOSAIC display. The committee members' reviews are added to the LPS online catalog and included in the digital display. Our committee members also select high-quality extension resources to include in the digital display.
2019-2020 MOSAIC Committee Members LaVonne Hanlon Micki Fowler Joy Harvey Alysa Haack Alyx Knight Paula McClung Kristi Diehl Betsy McEntarffer Kathy Phillips Rae Hunter-Pirtle Sheri Christen
Peggy Dynek Denice Hein Tish Rezac Dr. Barbara Buttes Alexandra Ball Angela Christensen Fischer Jackie LaFollette Jami Spaulding J.K. Purtzer Jean Hellwege
See the full MOSAIC collection at lps.org/go/mosaic. Read the LPS MOSAIC books on Sora. Borrow the ebooks and audiobooks.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B5
ELEMENTARY DISPLAY Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story By Kevin Noble Maillard, Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
2020 MOSAIC Review by B. Buttes This beautiful picture book, with delightful pastel drawings of children helping their mothers and grandmothers make Indian fry bread, brings to life a story that crisscrosses between simple text and charming pictures! Maillard explains that the fry bread ingredients are “all mixed together in a big bowl” and declares “fry bread is color”, while Martinez-Neal presents drawings of captivating children with complexions ranging in color from cream to “deep coffee”. This lovely book uses fry bread to portray American Indians as a thoroughly diverse group of people, who love all of creation, strengthen each other, help each other, and laugh together. Maillard includes back matter that explains his motivation for writing this book and even has “Kevin’s Fry Bread” recipe! Every elementary school library deserves to have this enjoyable book on its shelves.
MIDDLE SCHOOL DISPLAY Watch Us Rise By Renée Watson and Ellen Hagan 2020 MOSAIC Review by R. Hunter-Pirtle The aptly titled Watch Us Rise chronicles the ascent of a diverse group of teens to becoming activists for rights for all women. The main characters are Jasmine, a plus-sized African American girl and her best friend, Chelsea, a white, Irish and Italian American girl; they are juniors in a supposedly socially progressive high school in New York City. Incidents at school cause the girls to begin a women’s rights group which earns both outspoken supporters and critics. The two protagonists are flawed and believable, and surrounded by a cast of family members and diverse friends as supporting characters. The story is told in the alternating voices of Jasmine and Chelsea, and includes poetry and blog posts. In the time of the #MeToo movement, the topic is timely.
HIGH SCHOOL DISPLAY Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up with Me By Mariko Tamaki, Illustrated by Rosemary Valero-O’Connell 2020 MOSAIC Review by J. Purtzer Moving graphic novel about relationships. Frederica (Freddy) is in a relationship with the beautiful, popular and unfaithful Laura Dean. Laura frequently breaks up with Frederica without much cause, which causes heartbreak and loneliness as she waits for Laura to come back. Freddy’s pals are very supportive without offering advice, so Freddy writes to an advice columnist. Laura is selfish about having Freddy at her beck and call without reciprocating or being reliable for her girlfriend. Freddy inadvertently is traumatizing another friend of hers (Doodle) as she prioritizes Laura’s demands on her time vs. Doodle’s. The art is black and white with a pink highlight that is used very effectively to call out portions of the panels. Style is sparse with lines but still very expressive and detailed. Relationships are portrayed as the messy, wonderful, heartbreaking things they can be. Both author and illustrator are members of culture portrayed, this is done very naturally and without a lot of fanfare in the story. The advice columnist does respond towards the end to help Freddie with her decision. Recommended for MOSAIC 10-12, this title will definitely speak to the older high school students finding their identity.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B6
FCS teachers win state honors, continuing streak Two family and consumer sciences teachers from Lincoln Public Schools were recently honored as the best in the state. Family & Consumer Sciences Teachers of Ne-
braska named Michaela Vestecka from Mickle Middle School the Teacher of the Year in the category for those who have taught between six and 15 years. The organization named Rachel Hruza from Lincoln North Star High School
the winner in the one to five year category. This comes a year after Ashley Wachal from North Star was honored in the one to five year category, as well.
Mickle science teacher Hammond wins national scholarship Mickle Middle School science teacher Katie Hammond is the 2020 recipient of the Godwin-Wyer Teacher Scholarship. The scholarship is sponsored by the Godwin-Wyer family of Texas through the Monarch Project Educational Initiative (MPEI), an educational and research program of Spring Creek Education Society. Eligible teacher applicants are any K-12 public or private school teacher in the United States who incorporates science or a scientific theme in their classroom curriculum.
The organization chose Hammond as this year’s winner based on her project proposal of using Monarch butterfly research and conservation as the main theme to her lessons in genetics, adaptations and evolution. It’s only the most recent honor for Hammond, who teaches eighth grade. She leads the school’s environmental efforts and in April Mickle was named a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School, one of only 39 schools in the country to be honored this year.
The award recognizes schools for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education. In 2017, was named the Nebraska Science Teacher of the Year by the Air Force Association’s state chapter. The award honors a K-12 teacher for their classroom accomplishments and for inspiring students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) courses.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B7
LNKTV Health: The best kept secret to support your health By Michelle Welch RD, LMNT, LPS Wellness How often are you searching for something to watch and stumble across a friend or neighbor being featured on our local city health channel? Little do Lincoln residents know how rare of a gem this resource is for our community. Celebrating its tenth year of original content creation, LNKTV Health is touted nationally as a best practice, with several of its programs being recognized and archived by the Centers for Disease Control. Since the channel’s inception, LPS Wellness has partnered with the channel to build meaningful, up-to-date, research-supported content that is family friendly and customized specifically to our
community. Now in year 10, we have created well over 100 mini videos and programs in collaboration. Online, they are viewed all over the world.
to school and how to use the new bike lanes. These videos act as an excellent support to the information you receive from your healthcare provider.
As a registered dietitian for over 25 years, it’s critical to me that our community has access to solid information, free from sales pitches and truly made to support people’s health. However, the size of our community doesn’t allow for as much direct, in-person presentation as we would love to provide. Enter the use of video to fill the gap.
If you or your family deal with issues of diabetes, blood pressure or asthma, it’s well worth your time to check out the series of information we have built to support your health. In addition to the cable channel, all videos are available on its YouTube channel, LNKTV Health. Within the channel, search the topic of your choice paired with my name or LPS Wellness and you will discover a treasure trove of info.
I’m happy to say there have been many quick and easy, low-cost cooking segments created that apply to real life in Lincoln. LNKTV Health has also produced family-friendly, mini videos about managing health issues, safe walks
Many a Lego figure, super-hero or minion is tucked in along with the displays throughout the videos, helping make the videos fun and
family friendly. You’ll probably like that, too. Full credit to Melissa Fuller of LNKTV Health and her partners at Lincoln City TV, with support of city and county health, in our collaborations. Thanks also to my husband and teen sons for understanding when there is “TV food” in the fridge that is off limits. They know something is up when the kitchen looks overly clean. Finally, thanks to the folks who join us in mascot costumes and do exercise for hours, including the Prescott Panther, Homer the Saltdogs mascot, and Archie the Mammoth from Morrill Hall. I hope you have a chance to dip in and discover one of our best kept secrets to support your health in Lincoln, see some experts that live in your neighborhood and boost your health IQ with some added fun.
Teens mask feelings in complicated times By Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT, LPS Wellness How much have you noticed the change in yourself or your students? Changes in sleep patterns, food choices, decreased activity, decreased personal, social interactions and general concern for health and safety has taken a toll. Kids are masking in other ways than face coverings. What can we do?
Sleep can help kick out the crabbies and the cravings By Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT, LPS Wellness How many hours of sleep do you get each night? How often is it regularly more than seven hours? If so, you are beating the odds, as research tells us that only approximately 25% of us as adults do. Our kids need even more than we do, with younger students needing approximately 10-11 hours nightly. Do these look familiar to you? Being sleep deprived can lead to these issues and others: • Feeling drowsy, irritable and sometimes depressed • Struggling to concentrate and make decisions at school/work • Craving more starchy, sugary, simple carbohydrate foods, potentially impacting weight and health Boy, doesn’t that explain so much? Research with shift workers and now tracking technology has led us to recognize the power of sleep. No one is perfect, but what are some steps you can explore to boost your sleep and that of your kids? Plan enough time for sleep. Know what time you need to get kids to bed and plan the rest of your schedule around it. Though challenging to keep in place, they really do help kids be happy and healthy. Create consistent sleep habits. Follow a pre-sleep routine for going to bed and waking up at the same time. Shift into chill mode an hour before bed. Shut down work and skip screens or enthralling page turners at bedtime. Even better, use inexpensive, blue-light blocking glasses throughout the evening to help if you do heavy screen work, scrolling or gaming, which will help with your ability to shift into sleep. If you are a techie, put your devices to work for you. Activity trackers and watches often have a sleep tracker and can help you get a handle on your sleep patterns. Tracking does help you prioritize sleep and improve habits. Create a comfortable sleep environment. As much as possible make your bedroom cool, quiet and comfortable - especially your bed and pillow. Find some time for moving during the day. Research suggests that 30 minutes of movement can lead to 14 minutes of extra sleep per night. Learn what works best for you. Test out different times of day and types of movement for the best fit. If you’ve been practicing good sleep habits and think you’re sleeping well but still feel extra tired in the morning, then you may have a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea. Any problems with your sleep should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Wishing you and your student sweet dreams!
Recognize kids may feel very alone in their struggles. If social media or gaming has become their primary connection to others, everyone else’s life may feel very rosy. Anxiety is at an all-time high for many - even for those who have never really dealt with anxiety issues. They are also worried about the health of their family members and friends, even if they aren’t telling you. Reassuring kids and making time to keep the conversation flowing is key. Sometimes it flows more freely than others. Sometimes it feels like a trickle, followed by a major dam break. How much did your parents know about what you were going through as a teen? It was all about friends, right? Now imagine feeling cut off from live interaction with friends, where the real support of relationships happens, even in this world of social media spam accounts. Never heard of these sneaky accounts? Spam social media accounts are usually private accounts you can’t see as parents but invited “friends” can – think – public rant diary. You can imagine how this can go terribly wrong. That said, sometimes they lead friends to realize others are in trouble and seek out help for them. What if my child lets me know they are extremely worried about a friend? Ideally, as kids become part of your student’s friend base, you set a family rule of getting that friend’s phone number and that of their parent or guardian, especially if they are going places together. That may give you the chance to have better support on all sides for your student — and for theirs. Sometimes you may not have that information. Let’s Connect is a tool that can help students seek support for others and get the wheels in motion to inform parents, get a safety welfare check activated for a friend and/or get them to confidential resources. Students can choose to stay anonymous or give their name. Privacy of the student of concern will be preserved, but can help set a student’s mind at ease that responsible adults will make efforts to help. It has saved lives. Reassure your kids. They may often worry about breaking a confidence and how it may impact a friendship. It’s critical they are supported and realize it is better to seek help for friends and risk the friendship in contrast to the risk of losing that friend’s life by not seeking help. Imagine the what ifs they would live with if they don’t seek help for them? Need more direct help? School counselors, social workers, nurses and administrators can all help get you connected to initial resources and get a better handle on what is available. Outside of school hours, the Nebraska Family Helpline can provide initial access to resources 24/7 by dialing 888-866-8660.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B8
LPS BANDS MARCH ON The pandemic led to the cancellation of the major competitions for marching bands, but students and band directors from all six high schools are still practicing daily to hone their craft.
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B9
LPS-Kawasaki partnership receives $117,000 grant A partnership between Lincoln Public Schools and Kawasaki recently received a $117,000 grant from the state that will fund efforts to encourage careers in manufacturing and engineering. Each year, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development awards $250,000 in Developing Youth Talent Initiative grants to Nebraska-based companies that partner with area school districts.
These consortiums implement programs to inform, engage and inspire seventh- and eighth-grade students to explore high-demand careers throughout Nebraska. The LPS-Kawasaki partnership received this year’s largest grant. The company expects to work with up to 9,000 students across all 12 LPS middle schools. Kawasaki’s program will feature hands-on activities and instructional videos,
virtual field trips and opportunities for teachers to learn onsite at the company’s facilities. "Lincoln Public Schools is excited to partner with Kawasaki in order to expose students to careers in manufacturing and provide students with multiple learning opportunities with a local industry leader," said LPS Career & Technical Education Specialist Jason Thomsen.
Kawasaki Assistant Manager of Safety, Training and Development Jim Townsend echoed that excitement. “The grant will not only help make this project successful, but will help establish a pipeline for students to enter manufacturing careers and develop our future workforce,” said Jim Townsend, Kawasaki’s assistant manager of safety, training and development.
Sampson Construction Union Bank and Trust
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B10
October Elementary Lunch
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B11
October Breakfast
October Secondary Lunch
October 2020 | Community News | Section B
B12
THE SHOW MUST GO ON There are face coverings during rehearsal and limited capacity at performances, but the theater departments at all six high schools are still staging their fall plays this year. East High School got creative and performed its show in the school parking lot in late August. The other five schools are putting on their plays in early October. East High School “Writers’ Runaround"
North Star High School “The Outsiders”
Lincoln High School "Much Ado About Nothing"
Southeast High School – "All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten"
Northeast High School “The Man From Home”
Southwest High School "Newsies 2.0"