2024 Spring Newsletter

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

-Brett

Noser, Music Department Chair, Lincoln HIgh

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.

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.

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.

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.

-Ellen Reber

“

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

“

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

“

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, prescott elementary special education coordinator

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

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

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.

“

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

“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.”

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.

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.

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.

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

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.”

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

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.

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.”

From left to right: Derek Bombeck, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Representative, Mark & Chris Whitehead, Derrel Martin, Dr. Paul Gausman, Wendy Van

You build STRONGER students.

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

WENDY VAN President

K ASS MOUNCE Director of Development

ANGELINA CUNNING

Director of Operations

LINDSAY ROGERS

Director of Programs

Board Members Staff

Natalia Wiita, Chair

James Walbridge, Chair-Elect

Karli Mackley, Treasurer

Kris Baack, Ph.D., Secretary

Patrick Beans, Past Chair

Steve Schmidt, Past Treasurer

KAYLA JACOX Director of Marketing

JOSH WALL

Philanthropy Officer

KATIE ROMEY

Development Manager

ALICIA HAUGEN

Donor Services Manager

MCKENZIE KAPPERMAN

Marketing Coordinator

CASSIDY MAYER

Operations Coordinator

AMANDA KELLY

Operations Coordinator

JORDAN HAVLAT

Operations Coordinator

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

Britta Muhleisen

Deb Rasmussen

Max Rodenburg

Jeff Salem

Ed Schulenberg

PARKER DUSHAN Office Assistant

Mike Tavlin, J.D. LL.M. Dr. J.J. Toczek

Dr. Guy Trainin

Russ Uhing

Sarah Wischhof

5905 O Street

Lincoln, Nebraska 68510

Abel Foundation

Our Organizational Partners

Acklie Charitable Foundation

Allo Communications

Ameritas

Anderson Auto Group

Ash Hollow Advisory Group

Assurity

Cattle Bank & Trust

Chesterman Co.

Children’s Nebraska

CL Werner Foundation

Clark & Enersen

D F Dillon Foundation

ERDI Partners Inc

Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation

Frontier Bank

Harbor of Dreams Foundation

Heritage League Lincoln

Hoegemeyer Family Foundation

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

Lee and Debbie Stuart Family Foundation

Lincoln Area Retired School Personnel

Lincoln Babe Ruth Baseball Association

Lincoln Community Foundation

Lincoln Southeast Class of 1973

M.A. Mortenson Company

Mark T. & Margaret L. Seacrest

Family Charitable Foundation

NAI FMA Realty, Inc.

Nebraska Community Foundation

Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs

Nelnet

Olsson

Onyx Piercing Studio

Optimist Club of Lincoln

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church

Pace Woods Foundation

Pinnacle Bank

Ponca Tribe of Nebraska

Red Door Realty

Richard P. Kimmel and Laurine

Kimmel Charitable Foundation

Robert D. Carstens Charitable Trust

Rogers Foundation

Rotary Club #14 Foundation

Schmieding Foundation Inc.

Sherwin Williams

Speedway Properties

TeamMates of Nebraska

TEDX Lincoln

The Chief Standing Bear Project, Inc.

The Hampton Family Foundation

The Village Foundation

TMCO

U-Stop

Union Bank & Trust Company

Velma Snook Trust

Wild Orange Vendor Events LLC

Lincoln, NE Permit No. 2109

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.