THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
Sounds of Support: Funding Music in the Classroom

Community Impact
Scholarships that create Opportunities
Sounds of Support: Funding Music in the Classroom
Community Impact
Scholarships that create Opportunities
As the crisp autumn air arrives, the sounds of laughter and excitement can be heard every morning across Lincoln Public Schools as students and staff arrive ready to embrace the opportunity each day brings for learning, discovery, and new opportunities. The Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools is thrilled to embrace the excitement that the new school year brings. In this issue, we’re celebrating the impact the work we do has on the ability of students to reach their full potential and how this work is made possible only through your generous support.
At the Foundation, we witness firsthand the transformative power of each gift that comes through our doors. Whether it’s a first-time donation to a teacher’s Fund a Need campaign or a contribution in memory of a loved one, these gifts ripple throughout our school district.
When you support the Foundation for LPS, you’re investing in the future of our community. You’re supporting talented and bright students who will one day bring ideas, energy, and leadership to Lincoln. You’re empowering teachers who are dedicated to helping their students succeed. And you make it possible for students to take full advantage of their learning opportunities in all 70
LPS schools and programs every day.
This issue is filled with inspiring stories of philanthropy, service, and achievement. You will read about Spark Summer Learning, which had an incredible nine weeks of camp, supporting over 400 students through STEAM-based learning. We’re also honoring two individuals who, thanks to their kindness, dedication, and commitment, left a lasting legacy for LPS students and staff. Additionally, we celebrate a middle school student with a heart for philanthropy. Finally, we thank our generous donors and volunteers who made the Fielding Dreams Campaign a success.
Thanks to your support, the Foundation can continue providing essential resources to students and teachers. Your generosity allows us to support LPS and ensure our students have the tools to thrive.
Dr. John Neal Interim President
On an ordinary morning at Irving Middle School, a quote crackled over the loudspeaker: “If you think you are too small to make a difference, you haven’t spent a night with a mosquito.” Little did anyone know how those words would soon take on a life of their own in the mind of then 7th-grader Flynn Rash. That morning, however, quickly turned terrifying when a student brought an air-soft gun onto campus, sparking panic and fear. As chaos unfolded around him, Flynn felt a gnawing sense of helplessness. That sense of helplessness could have paralyzed him, but it ignited a flicker of defiance instead. The memory of that quote resonated deeply within him. If something as small as a mosquito could make an impact, then Flynn, small as he was, could become a force for good.
Inspired by a sense of purpose, and having witnessed the power of giving firsthand, Flynn set out to contribute to his community. His goal was ambitious: to raise $100,000 for the Malone Center’s fight against poverty in Lincoln. Starting from scratch, Flynn designed a line of merchandise, built a website that still sells items today, and began tirelessly spreading his message. Flynn’s efforts raised an astonishing $60,000 in just a year through merchandise sales and partnerships. His story, driven by honesty and unwavering commitment, resonated with local businesses and the community. Flynn wasn’t just a mosquito-sized hero; he had become a force of nature.
When the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools had the chance to nominate an Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy for the Association of Fundraising Professionals Nebraska Chapter, Flynn was the obvious choice. His maturity, selflessness, and relentless drive to make a difference are nothing short of inspiring.
This November, Flynn will be celebrated for his innovative fundraising and leadership in motivating others to support positive community projects across Nebraska.
Together, we can all be a force for good — no matter our size.
ALLO Communications, a leading telecommunications provider, Lincoln Public Schools (LPS), and the Foundation for LPS marked the success of their partnership, celebrating its profound impact on the Lincoln community. The event took place at UBT Stadium at Northwest High School, a facility significantly upgraded through this collaborative effort.
Brad Moline, President & CEO of ALLO Communications, underscored the company’s commitment to community investment, rooted in its core values of connectivity and service. He emphasized ALLO’s pivotal role in providing essential telecommunications infrastructure to the city and highlighted programs such as ALLO for Education and SmartSchools, which have directly benefited students and schools across Lincoln.
“Our team is proud to support education across Nebraska, working to close the digital divide,” said Moline. “From The Bay High to Fielding Dreams, ALLO’s commitment to Lincoln’s schools is much like investing in fiber - a 30 to 50-year investment in success.”
The Foundation for LPS’ Fielding Dreams Campaign began in partnership with Lincoln Public Schools to elevate the athletic facilities at Lincoln Standing Bear and Lincoln
Northwest high schools. Thanks to the generous support of many donors, incredible partnerships, and contributions from the 2020 school bond, over $23.6M has gone toward these spectacular facilities. The construction of turf, signage, scoreboards, stands, courts, fields, and lights has provided championship-level experiences for LPS studentathletes. Adding locker rooms in the near future will bring state-of-the-art enhancements that our students and fans deserve.
“The success of the Fielding Dreams Campaign is largely due to the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of community partners,” says Dr. John Neal, Interim President of the Foundation for LPS. “By enhancing athletic facilities, we sought to provide more
The success of the Fielding Dreams Campaign is largely due to the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of community partners.
time, opportunity, and growth for Lincoln’s students and their families.”
As the Fielding Dreams Campaign concludes, the impact of what was achieved with community partnerships is unmistakable. These facilities now stand as a testament to what the Lincoln community can accomplish when they come together to support our students. They provide Lincoln’s young student-athletes with the resources and environment they need to thrive.
Dr. Paul Gausman, Superintendent of LPS, shared, “As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunities for further collaboration. We will continue to find other opportunities for our community to rally around our student-athletes. We know that the need is always there,
and the opportunities will continue to arise. We welcome the chance to partner with Lincoln on new endeavors that support our students.
HONORARY CHAIRS
Dick Cavett
Paige Nielsen
Dr. Tom and
Nancy Osborne
James Valentine
CHAIRS
Britta & Jake Muhleisen
Chris & Mark Whitehead
CAMPAIGN CABINET
Pat and Ellie Beans
Charlie Bills
Justin Brunken
Nick Cusick
Don and Jen Ham
Kaye Jesske
Ben Kiser
Jeff Maul
Thomas Nettleton
Chris Rajala
Kelly Ross
Steve Schmidt
Drew Stange
Dr. J.J. Toczek
Russ Uhing
Denny Van Horn
James Walbridge
Geoff Weller
Michael Weston
Trevin Wurm
LINCOLN BOARD OF EDUCATION
Lanny Boswell
Kathy Danek
Dr. Paul Gausman
Don Mayhew
Annie Mumgaard
Bob Rauner
Piyush Srivastav
LPS EXECUTIVES
Dr. Liz Standish
Dr. J.J. Toczek
Scott Wieskamp
Mark Watt wasn’t just a coach but a mentor, role model, and force for positive change. His decades-long career in softball, marked by countless victories and countless lives touched, left an imprint on the Lincoln community.
Watt’s coaching journey began at Lincoln Southeast High School in 1996, but it was at Lincoln Southwest High School (LSW), where he led the team from 2002 to 2022, that his legacy truly flourished. Under his guidance, LSW became a powerhouse in high school softball, winning four Class A state championships and a reputation for developing wellrounded athletes.
“There is nothing like being a head coach,” Watt recalled. “You take it more personally when it’s your program.”
Beyond the wins and losses, Watt’s impact was most profound in the way he nurtured his players. He emphasized the importance of academics, character, and personal growth, fostering a team culture that valued athletic excellence and integrity.
“I wanted to develop each player to be the best player and person they could be,” Watt said. His commitment to this philosophy led the LSW softball team to be among the nation’s top ten academically ranked high school softball teams six times.
Watt’s dedication to his players often extended beyond the field. He was known for his tireless work ethic, often staying late to provide one-on-one coaching or simply offer encouragement. His ability to connect with his players personally made him a beloved figure in the LSW community.
“Mark knew when to have fun, but also when his players needed a more focused practice,” said longtime assistant coach Lis Brenden. “He did a great job explaining the ‘whys’ behind his coaching.”
One of Watt’s most memorable moments came during a hot August practice. Sensing that the team’s energy was low, he pulled out a tarp and a hose, creating a makeshift slip-and-slide for them to enjoy after practice. It was a small gesture, revealing Watt’s willingness to go the extra mile for his players.
Madison Lavelle, Watt’s former player, describes him as genuine - always wanting the best for her and her teammates. “He’s such a humble individual with a tremendous background,” she said.
Watt’s legacy lives on through the Mark Watt Scholarship Fund, established after Watt was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The scholarship provides $1,000 annually
to senior varsity softball players at LSW, ensuring his passion for supporting student-athletes will continue for years.
“He’s a hall-of-fame coach known by everyone in softball,” Brenden said. “His legacy will never fade. This scholarship ensures his name will live on, even after he’s no longer on the field.”
As Watt continues to be involved with the Lincoln softball community, his influence remains as strong as ever. His dedication to the sport, commitment to his players, and unwavering belief in the power of education have left a lasting impact that will be felt for generations to come.
Imagine a summer where kids aren’t just learning but living their favorite subjects. That’s the magic of Spark, the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools’ summer camp program. Highlighting the importance of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) education at the elementary level, Spark offers a playground of exploration, wonder, and hands-on learning.
This summer, the nine-week camp focused on a whirlwind of exciting topics, from pollinators to puppies, mini-golf to moon landers, and coding to cameras. Students in first through sixth grade had the chance to explore potential career paths, expand their STEAM knowledge, and dive into subjects often overlooked during the school year.
One of the highlights of the summer was during the second week of camp: “If You Build It, They
Will Come.” This theme introduced students to the fascinating world of animal adaptations, focusing on how a bird’s beak can dictate its diet. After engaging in hands-on activities, the campers ventured to Schramm Education Center in Gretna to further their research into bird adaptations and behaviors. Back at camp, the students put their new knowledge to the test by designing and constructing bird feeders tailored to specific bird species. With the support of Cheever Construction and Wildbird Habitat Store, the campers ended the week with a sense of accomplishment as they took their creations home to continue their exploration.
During the summer 2024 session, Spark provided care and STEAM learning opportunities to over 400 students. And thanks to generous grants and donations totaling over $120,000, nearly 105 Spark students from families in need attended the camp free of charge.
A crucial goal of Kaylin Gardner’s was to create an inclusive environment for fostering a love of music and creative expression among her students. As a music teacher at Arnold Elementary, she’s enhanced her teaching experience using the Foundation’s Fund a Need crowdfunding platform.
Her introduction to Fund a Need came during a school meeting, where she learned about the platform’s potential to support educational projects not covered by the school’s budget. Fund a Need allows LPS teachers or staff members to easily set up and manage fundraising campaigns to support the unique needs of their students and schools. From essential classroom supplies and innovative projects to field trips and staff appreciation, Fund a Need empowers teachers to bring their ideas to life with the support of our generous community.
Kaylin’s first campaign was acquiring a set of 30 ukuleles for her students. After seeing other schools in Lincoln using them in elementary education, she saw the value in introducing instruments like ukuleles that could engage students creatively.
The impact was immediate and profound. Not only did the campaign meet its goal, but it paved the way for further innovations in her teaching approach. Recognizing the practical challenges of using heavy xylophones stored in inaccessible cupboards, Mrs. Gardner utilized Fund a Need
to purchase carts for these instruments. This simple change dramatically increased accessibility, exposing students to more instruments more often.
Since 2019, Mrs. Gardner has raised over $12,000 for her classroom, thanks to the generous support of the community. This collective effort has created a unique music community at Arnold, where students have equal opportunity to participate without worrying about their financial situation at home. Some projects include purchasing violins for students who couldn’t afford them, allowing five students to attend the Nebraska Music Educator’s Orff Ensemble, t-shirts for music students, books and sheet music, audio tracks, and so much more. Kaylin said, “Fund a Need changed the entire way I teach.” The ability to fundraise directly for classroom needs meant that every student could actively participate in music education without waiting for their turn.
Fund a Need changed the entire way I teach.
Kaylin Gardner
The ukuleles, in particular, became a gateway for many students to explore music further. Some students even returned to share how their experience with the ukuleles had sparked their interest in guitar. In one memorable project, Arnold students wrote and performed their songs on the ukulele, highlighting the creativity unlocked by these resources. This not only enhanced their musical skills but also boosted their confidence and self-expression.
Find a Fund a Need to support!
For Matthew Leach, the highlight of each day was waiting for the school bus to take him to see his friends and teachers. Matthew, known for his quirky personality and collection of over 9,000 toy cars, was an active part of the special education and Unified programs at North Star High School. Despite his challenges, his presence brought people together, showing the impact of inclusion and kindness on the school’s entire community.
Leach, a 2022 graduate, sadly passed away in July of 2023. Yet, his legacy lives on through the LNS Matthew Leach Unified Scholarship Fund. Nichole McCoy, Matthew’s Unified track coach, and Holly Gonser, Matthew’s Life Skills teacher, worked quickly to establish a scholarship. With the help of his mother, family, friends, and the Foundation, the scholarship was created and funded just in time to be awarded during the 23-24 school year.
Of the many applicants in it’s first year, Kaitlyn Cornett, Matthew’s Unified track partner, was the very first recipient of the LNS Matthew Leach Unified Scholarship. The Unified program brings together students with intellectual disabilities or those who need additional support alongside general education students, creating opportunities for everyone while fostering acceptance and empathy through athletics.
“These opportunities we’ve given students have not just made them better, but our school better, and our teachers and administrators better,” said McCoy. “People are afraid
of what they don’t know, even the adults, but now they’re all becoming more accepting.”
The program has been met with great success, creating new friendships and increased opportunities. “The connections made here aren’t just for school,” said Kaitlyn. “They’re my friends, and I see them and talk to them outside of school because I want to, and that’s what friends do.”
It was only fitting that Kaitlyn was the first recipient of Matthew’s scholarship, given her close bond with him and her dedication to supporting him on and off the track. Their time together not only strengthened their friendship but also solidified Kaitlyn’s passion for working with students with special needs, inspiring her to pursue a degree in special education in college. Seeing that the scholarship’s criteria calls for participation in three or more Unified classes and pursuing a degree in special education, she checked all the boxes.
“He made such a positive impact on my life,” said Kaitlyn. “It’s an honor to be the first person to receive his scholarship, and I will tell everybody about it!”
Kaitlyn’s words are a testament to Matthew’s impact on her and everyone around him. Through the LNS Matthew Leach Unified Scholarship, his influence will continue to be felt for years. The scholarship honors Matthew’s love for the Unified program and emphasizes the importance of acceptance and inclusion within a school’s community. As the program grows, so does Matthew’s legacy, inspiring others to foster a culture of empathy and kindness.
DR. JOHN NEAL
Interim President
ANGELINA CUNNING
Director of Operations
LINDSAY ROGERS Director of Programs
James Walbridge, Chair
Kris Baack Ph.D., Chair-Elect
Karli Mackley, Treasurer
Alex Cassidy, Secretary
Natalia Wiita, Past Chair
KAYLA JACOX Director of Marketing
KASS MOUNCE Director of Development
JOSH WALL Philanthropy Officer
Patrick Beans
Dr. James Blake
Mo Boyd
Alex Cassidy, J.D.
Ginna Claussen
Brent Comstock
Abel Foundation
Acklie Charitable Foundation
Allo Communications
Ameritas
Art F/X Screenprinting
Ash Hollow Advisory Group
Assurity
Bettenhausen Family Foundation
Cattle Bank & Trust
Chesterman Co.
Children’s Nebraska
CL Werner Foundation
Clinton PTO
Cotner Lodge No. 297, A.F. & A.M.
Craftsmen Lodge #314 AF & AM
D F Dillon Foundation
Dolezal Family Foundation
ERDI Partners Inc
Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation
KATIE ROMEY Development Manager
ALICIA HAUGEN Donor Services Manager
RUKHSHONA ISLAMOVA Marketing Coordinator
Trent Fellers
Dr. Paul Gausman
Nancy Hove-Graul
Kaye Jesske
John Laflin
Andy Martz
Joan Mendoza-Gorham
Frontier Bank
Haleon
Harbor of Dreams Foundation
Heritage League Lincoln
Hoegemeyer Family Foundation
Hugo A. and Thelma Aspegren Trust
Hy-Vee
inMOTION Auto Care
James Huntington Foundation
James Stuart III Family Foundation
Kiwanis Club Foundation of Lincoln
Lancaster County Community
Corrections
Lancaster County Human Services
Lancaster Lodge No. 54 AF&AM
Lee and Debbie Stuart Family Foundation
Lincoln Chapter #6 Royal Arch Masons
Lincoln Community Foundation
Lincoln Industries
JORDAN HAVLAT Operations Coordinator
CASSIDY MAYER Operations Coordinator
PARKER DUSHAN Operations Assistant
Britta Muhleisen
Annie Mumgaard
Jeffrey Owusu-Ansah
Deb Rasmussen
Max Rodenburg
Ed Schulenberg
Mike Tavlin J.D. LL.M.
Lincoln North Star Student Council
Lincoln Scottish Rite
Lincoln Southeast Class of 1973
M.A. Mortenson Company
Mark T. & Margaret L. Seacrest Family Charitable Foundation
MidwayUSA Foundation Inc.
Miriam Moeller Charitable Trust
Morley Elementary School PTO
MT Moriah Commandery 4 K T
NAI FMA Realty, Inc.
Nebraska Community Foundation
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Nelnet
NGC Group, Inc.
Olsson
Olsson Family Foundation
Optimist Club of Lincoln
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church
Pace Woods Foundation
Dr. J.J. Toczek
Dr. Guy Trainin
Russ Uhing
John Wirtz
Sarah Wischhof
Pinnacle Bank
Raybould Family Foundation
Red Door Realty
Rogers Foundation
Roper Elementary
Sampson Construction Co. Inc.
Schmieding Foundation Inc.
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
TeamMates of Nebraska
TEDX Lincoln
The Hampton Family Foundation
The Village Foundation
U-Stop
Union Bank & Trust
Valentino’s
Velma Snook Trust
5905 O Street
Lincoln, Nebraska 68510
All students should have what they need to reach their full potential. In order to accomplish that, we leverage the community to create opportunities that enhance academic and personal success of Lincoln Public School students and educators.
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