Spring 2024 Newsletter

2024 Spring Newslet ter

GROWING TOGETHER Community Partnering for Student Success

The Continued Impact is Almost Impossible to Measure When your gift is given, it is just the beginning. A gift, no matter the size, acts as a catalyst. It might propel a student onto a national stage, fuel a teacher’s innovative lesson plan, or open doors to a dream career. Each contribution sparks a student’s potential, igniting a chain reaction far beyond the initial recipient.

As we navigate through this year, marked by the loss of our dear colleague, Gary Reber, we are reminded of the lasting impact of our mission and the donors who put it into action. Gary’s unwavering dedication to Lincoln Public Schools and his commitment to connecting generous donors like you with students’ needs inspire us.

The impact of your generosity stretches far and wide. The list of those touched by your gifts – students, teachers, families, and the entire community – grows exponentially. It’s a ripple effect, a wave of positive change that keeps expanding.

Your gifts to our students and families have a profound effect, enriching our community and inspiring others. These are stories without endings - testaments to the lasting power of your contributions.

This powerful idea not only motivates me every day but also provides comfort.

Thank you. A single act of giving can have a far-reaching impact, influencing not just the first recipient but countless others.

It embodies the idea that every ending is a new beginning, a continuous cycle of positive change.

Thanks to community support, this spring issue of our newsletter highlights successes within LPS. We’re grateful to be the connector between the two.

Thank you for your continued support.

Wendy Van President

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IN THIS ISSUE

Gary Reber Memorial Student Assistance Fund

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Prescott Elementary Champions Diverse Learners

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Fielding Dreams Ribbon-Cutting

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A New Playground at Kahoa Elementary

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Give to Lincoln Day and Spark

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Soaring to New Heights at Standing Bear

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Mission and Organizational Partners

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Meet Logan: A Student with a Heart for Giving

2024 SPRING NEWSLETTER

The LPS Gary Reber Memorial Student Assistance Fund At the heart of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools was a man whose commitment to education knew no bounds. Gary Reber, a cherished colleague, left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Until his passing in January 2024, his journey was one of dedication, kindness, and a deeprooted passion for making a difference.

Education was more than just a profession for Gary; it was a part of his DNA. Surrounded by educators in his family, his wife and daughter both educators at LPS, it was no surprise that Gary found his calling in supporting education.

When Gary joined the Foundation in 2015, his impact was immediate and profound. His commitment to honoring relationships and leading with integrity made

Gary was a huge supporter of LPS and LPS Music. He helped countless teachers and departments get materials they needed to help students learn better...In the ten years I knew him, he was a wonderful person to talk to - he was a great man.

-Bret t Noser, Music Department Chair, Lincoln HIgh

2024 SPRING NEWSLETTER

him a figure we all admired. Gary’s work was not just about securing donations but about forging lasting connections and ensuring every child had what they needed. His genuine care for donors and students alike was unparalleled, leaving a lasting imprint on the Foundation and the community.

Stu Elliot, one of the many donors touched by Gary’s work, reminisced about their enduring relationship.

“Gary’s humor and attentiveness transformed what could have been a simple transaction into a meaningful bond,” said Stu. Gary ensured donors understood their contributions’ profound and lasting impact on students’ lives.

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Gary’s dedication and passion shone through in every project he undertook, but it was in his work with music programs that his love for education indeed came alive. As a drummer himself, music held a special place in Gary’s heart. He collaborated with teachers like Lincoln High Instrumental Music Teacher Brett Noser to bring initiatives to life, demonstrating his commitment to enriching students’ lives through the power of music.

“Gary was a huge supporter of LPS and LPS Music.

He helped countless teachers and departments get the materials to help students learn better. In the ten years I knew him, he was a wonderful person to talk to - a great man.” Brent Noser.

But Gary’s influence extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He was more than a colleague; he was the ‘office dad,’ radiating warmth and generosity wherever he went. Whether teaching a colleague how to change the oil in a car or sharing a laugh with friends, Gary made everyone feel valued. His role as a devoted TeamMate mentor was a testament to his caring nature. He took great joy in watching his TeamMate, Trenton, navigate his way into adulthood. In 2018, his exceptional dedication was recognized when he was inducted into the TeamMates Hall of Fame.

and listening to live music, and he was a master in the kitchen. His role as a husband to Pam, father to Ellen and Will, and grandfather to Olive and Frances (Frankie) brought him immense pride and joy. He never missed an opportunity to share stories of his family.

The LPS Gary Reber Memorial Student Assistance Fund was established to celebrate Gary’s passion for education, students, and teachers. The fund will be used towards campaigns from the Foundation’s crowdfunding platform, Fund A Need to support LPS elementary students, and allocations will be chosen annually by the Reber family. Gary’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those he inspired and the countless students who benefited from his dedication.

Donate to Gary’s fund here.

Most importantly, Gary cherished his family and community. He loved exploring local eateries and

He had a really quick wit and just always knew how to make people laugh. He was generous with giving his laughs, too...My mom says it always felt so good when she could make him laugh back.

-Ellen Reber PAGE

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“ I hope he’ll be remembered for his laugh and his sense of humor, and for the way that he made anyone in his presence feel heard and feel valued. - Ellen Reber

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Prescott Elementary Champions Diverse Learners WITH SUCCESSFUL FUND A NEED CAMPAIGN The special education team at Prescott Elementary understands the power of engaging students in multiple learning styles. Recognizing the need for hands-on materials, they spearheaded a Fund a Need campaign to raise money for activities, resources, and manipulatives for kindergarten through fifth-grade special education students.

Thank you to those who helped enhance this inclusive learning environment at Lincoln Public Schools.

The community stepped up and funded the campaign, allowing Prescott a treasure trove of new materials.

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Our students have been able to access hands-on reading materials to help with phonics, math manipulatives and tools to help with better math understanding, and hands-on social emotional materials like books, games, puzzles, and more.

- Makaela johnson, prescot t elementary special education coordinator

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2024 SPRING NEWSLETTER

Opening the Door to New Worlds: A New Playground Recess is a platform for imagination and discovery, becoming the launchpad for rocket exploration, treasure hunts, top-secret missions, and so much more.

The Bair Playground Fund, established in 2007 by Harley and Shirley Bair, aims to help our schools revamp outdated equipment and create new accessible adventures. Any LPS elementary school working on a playground upgrade can apply to receive the Bair grant.

Since the fund’s creation, the following elementary schools have utilized the grant to improve their facilities: Beattie, Saratoga, Zeman, Arnold, Huntington, Meadow Lane, Randolph, Hill, Zeman, Beattie, Morley, and Kooser.

The 2022-2023 Bair grant recipient, Kahoa Elementary School, is using the funds to build a more inclusive, welcoming space for its students. They will replace mulch and sand with rubber mats to make the space wheelchair accessible and create calming, sensory-equipped spaces to accommodate a diverse student population.

Installation of Kahoa’s new playground will begin over the summer.

These updates will make our playground more inclusive and safe for our students.

-Mandy Nickolite-Green, Kahoa Elementary Principal

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Soaring to New Heights a community success story

The music program at Lincoln’s newest high school, Standing Bear High School, is soaring to new heights thanks to the community’s incredible support.

The show choir’s recent Fund a Need campaign was a resounding success, and the outpouring of generosity went above and beyond expectations.

“The Fund a Need campaign raised money allowing us to buy instruments, travel tools, and basic technological needs like music mixing software,” said Hunter Boe, Standing Bear vocal music director.

Additionally, the funds provided a well-rounded show choir experience for students. “Show choir is an activity that requires certain technology and support,” Hunter noted.

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Music provides a place to belong, connect, and feel supported. It also allows students to achieve excellence a feeling we crave.

The community can continue to play a vital role in the program’s success.

“Attending performances is a hugely important way to support our students,” Hunter emphasized. “We can also always use volunteers, especially as we put on events like The Summit.” For ongoing support, the community can visit the program’s website, grizzlypaw.org, to learn more.

While every student’s story is unique, Hunter summarizes the program’s impact perfectly: “Music provides a place to belong, connect, and feel supported. It also allows students to achieve excellence - a feeling we crave.”

Standing Bear’s show choir is ready to take center stage, and the community’s support has made it all possible.

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“One element I did not anticipate was the degree to which individuals not associated with Standing Bear gave donations,” shared Hunter. People saw our request and our need and felt inspired to participate despite not knowing anyone here, and that was truly special.”

“The campaign helped remind the community that we are here,” Hunter explained. “We are a new program without established events or tradition, yet it helped connect us to our patrons and other members of the greater Lincoln community.”

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2024 SPRING NEWSLETTER

A Heart for Philanthropy: Meet Logan

guarantee that the funds would align with Logan’s vision for helping athletes.

Logan’s journey continued as he transferred Lincoln Public Schools. He shared his desire to support athletics at Scott Middle School with his new principal, Michael Gillotti. Recognizing Logan’s passion, Principal Gillotti proposed supporting Scott’s upcoming Unified PE Bowling field trip.

(Unified PE allows students with and without disabilities to come together through activities.) His passion for fostering inclusive access to physical activities led him to generously support the trip, giving many students an unforgettable experience.

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If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.

- Dalai Lama

” Meet Logan Cowan, a determined student at Scott Middle School with a heart set on making a difference. Born in a small town in Nebraska, Logan’s upbringing instilled a profound love for all athletics.

In fifth grade, a friend confided in him that he couldn’t participate in the upcoming soccer season due to his family’s inability to afford the $45 fee.

Logan thought there had to be resources available to help get kids access to play sports.

Logan’s philanthropic journey is far from over.

As he prepares for his freshman year at Lincoln Southwest High School, he is already planning to continue supporting LSW athletes. His commitment to philanthropy is balanced with a diverse range of interests. Alongside his tennis, bowling, and baseball athletic pursuits, Logan also expresses interest in band, orchestra, debate, and student council. His dedication to both his community and his personal growth is truly inspiring.

When asked about his motivation to give back to the community, Logan credits his father, remarking, “My dad inspires me. He prioritizes making life easier for others, even if it means making his own harder.”

Except, there wasn’t, so Logan decided to take matters into his own hands. Despite initial setbacks, Logan refused to be deterred. He sought to establish a scholarship for sporting equipment through his town, but when that plan faltered, he launched a successful fundraising campaign with his mother’s support on her Facebook account.

However, challenges persisted when there wasn’t a

2024 SPRING NEWSLETTER

Christopher Kidd, Cameron Rokowsky and Cooper Arehart at this year’s Unified PE Bowling Field Trip to Sun Valley Lanes. PAGE

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Fielding Dreams News

Celebrating the Grand Opening of the JoAnn & DerreL Martin Courts at the U-Stop Tennis Complex “This is significant in our community,” said Dr. Paul Gausman, Superintendent of Lincoln Public Schools. “The U-Stop Tennis Complex at Standing Bear High School is the second tournament-ready facility in Lincoln - a testament to what collaboration between public and private partnerships can achieve.”

This celebration honored the donors who made this dream a reality - Derrel Martin and Mark and Chris Whitehead. Thanks to their contributions, students across LPS can access a state-of-the-art tennis facility.

“We’re so grateful for these donors who understand the transformative power of sports and how these courts will foster teamwork, resilience, and leadership,” shared Wendy Van, President of the Foundation for LPS. From left to right: Derek Bombeck, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Representative, Mark & Chris Whitehead, Derrel Martin, Dr. Paul Gausman, Wendy Van

Chris Whitehead spoke at the event, asking individuals to consider giving a gift to the Fielding Dreams Capital Campaign. “Now more than ever, it is so important that private and public funding help spread the ‘love’ to tennis and all sports. Our kids need these facilities to reach their full potential.

Our community needs them to help fuel our tax base.”

Head to our website to learn more Foundation for LPS Board & Staff Members in attendance PAGE

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2024 SPRING NEWSLETTER

You build

STRONGER students.

Consider giving to the Foundation for LPS on Give to Lincoln Day between May 1st-30th.

Staff WENDY VAN President

KAYLA JACOX Director of Marketing

MCKENZIE KAPPERMAN Marketing Coordinator

KASS MOUNCE Director of Development

JOSH WALL Philanthropy Officer

CASSIDY MAYER Operations Coordinator

ANGELINA CUNNING Director of Operations

KATIE ROMEY Development Manager

AMANDA KELLY Operations Coordinator

LINDSAY ROGERS Director of Programs

ALICIA HAUGEN Donor Services Manager

JORDAN HAVLAT Operations Coordinator

PARKER DUSHAN Office Assistant

Board Members Natalia Wiita, Chair James Walbridge, Chair-Elect Karli Mackley, Treasurer Kris Baack, Ph.D., Secretary Patrick Beans, Past Chair Steve Schmidt, Past Treasurer

Barbara A. Baier Dr. Nancy Biggs Dr. James Blake Mo Boyd Alex Cassidy, J.D. Ginna Claussen

Brent Comstock Dr. Paul Gausman Nancy Hove-Graul Kaye Jesske John Laflin

Spark is near!

Give Them A Summer They Won’t Forget

Weekly STEAM-Based Summer Camp Check out our website for more details:

Britta Muhleisen Deb Rasmussen Max Rodenburg Jeff Salem Ed Schulenberg

Mike Tavlin, J.D. LL.M. Dr. J.J. Toczek Dr. Guy Trainin Russ Uhing Sarah Wischhof

Non-Profit U.S. Postage

PAID

5905 O Street Lincoln, Nebraska 68510

Lincoln, NE Permit No. 2109

Our Organizational Partners Abel Foundation

James Stuart III Family Foundation

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church

Acklie Charitable Foundation

Kiwanis Club Foundation of Lincoln

Pace Woods Foundation

Allo Communications

Lancaster County Community Corrections

Pinnacle Bank

Ameritas Anderson Auto Group Ash Hollow Advisory Group Assurity

Lancaster County Human Services Lee and Debbie Stuart Family Foundation

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Red Door Realty Richard P. Kimmel and Laurine Kimmel Charitable Foundation

All students should have what they need to

Lincoln Area Retired School Personnel

Robert D. Carstens Charitable Trust

Children’s Nebraska

Lincoln Babe Ruth Baseball Association

Rotary Club #14 Foundation

CL Werner Foundation

Lincoln Community Foundation

Schmieding Foundation Inc.

that, we leverage the

Clark & Enersen

Lincoln Southeast Class of 1973

Sherwin Williams

D F Dillon Foundation

Speedway Properties

community to create

M.A. Mortenson Company

ERDI Partners Inc

Mark T. & Margaret L. Seacrest Family Charitable Foundation

TeamMates of Nebraska

NAI FMA Realty, Inc.

The Chief Standing Bear Project, Inc.

Frontier Bank

Nebraska Community Foundation

The Hampton Family Foundation

Harbor of Dreams Foundation

Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs

The Village Foundation

Cattle Bank & Trust Chesterman Co.

Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation

Heritage League Lincoln Hoegemeyer Family Foundation Hy-Vee inMOTION Auto Care James Huntington Foundation

Nelnet Olsson Onyx Piercing Studio Optimist Club of Lincoln

Rogers Foundation

TEDX Lincoln

TMCO U-Stop Union Bank & Trust Company Velma Snook Trust Wild Orange Vendor Events LLC

reach their full potential.

In order to accomplish

opportunities that enhance academic and personal success of Lincoln Public School students and educators.