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November 2019

Hands-on science at Pound Middle School On a recent Tuesday morning, you could feel the energy inside Anica Brown’s seventh-grade science classroom at Pound Middle School. And it wasn’t just from the day’s lesson that asked students to compare thermal energy to electrical energy.

SECTION A: A2 Superintendent’s blog: Appreciating the present A4 Step teams perform A7 LPS enrollment continues to grow

You could feel the students’ energy, too, especially after they conducted experiments and discussed their findings in small groups. Brown then asked the full class for volunteers to share their observations.

Irving art teacher honored

“Who would like to go first?” Brown asked as she scanned the room. “Oh my gosh, we have several people.”

B1 Solving two-step word problems

Abby, Izzy, Lili - one by one, several of her students described their findings.

B3 TeamMates of the Month

A8 ConnectLPS A11 Telescope stars at astronomy night SECTION B:

B2 Community Awareness series

B4 Reunification drills aim for safety

“With the electrical energy, the bubbles were kind of stationary on the left. They didn’t really move very much,” Izzy said.

B6 Learning Lunch Family Literacy Fair draws crowd

“Wow, you made a great observation,” Brown replied. “I love the word stationary...I love these scientific words you guys are using.”

B7 ESUs serve district, students, educators

The driving question for the day’s lesson was, “How can we make new particles from old particles?” It aligned with the unit’s larger question: “How can we make something new that was not there before?”

B11 Menus

Lincoln Public Schools K-12 Science Curriculum Specialist James Blake said Brown’s class reflects a shift in science instruction that has occurred in LPS and throughout Nebraska. The consensus of research shows the traditional way of teaching, which is heavy on rote memorization, does not reach most students. “If you think about the positive experiences you had when you were a student, they probably all had in common that you were doing something, engaged in a hands-on or minds-on lab or activity,” Blake said.

B8 LPS Marching Band Invitational B10 Wellness Column B12 Maxey celebrates 25 years

In 2017, the Nebraska Department of Education released updated College and Career Ready Science Standards, which also emphasize more hands-on learning and real-life application. LPS began training teachers for this shift back in 2014. “We try to teach for what is outside the classroom,” Blake said, “and not

to create learning experiences simply because it’s the title of a chapter in a textbook.” There certainly was no rote memorization in Brown’s class, or lessons being taught because they’re titles in a textbook. The sign outside her classroom says it all: “Welcome to Science 7 with Mrs. Brown. Science rocks!”

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

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

Visiting the past to appreciate the present

couple of weeks ago, my wife and I attended a wedding in New York. We always enjoy visiting the place where we both were raised – reminiscing about our childhoods and soaking in the memories. Long Island, New York in the 1960s was a wonderful place to grow up and proved to be a great place to be from. Despite having wondrous memories of my years at Levittown MacArthur High School, I only made it back for my 20th class reunion. Previously when I visited the area, I would try to get a few laps around the track or – at the very least – make sure to always drive by once to relish the memories. McArthur was a large school, with more than 800 in each class. It was easy for any of us, even me, to get lost or blend in with the masses. My memories of high school include teachers being impersonal, grumpy custodians and we always dreaded any interaction with administrators. I will, however, give credit to my football and baseball coaches, who took time to build relationships that motivated me to excel in school. I was excited when I was recently offered a personal tour of my old alma mater by the superintendent whom I met this summer. While I knew the school from the outside looked exactly as it did in 1972, I also was surprised how little the three-story building had changed inside. I immediately compared MacArthur to our high schools in Lincoln and beamed with pride because of how well we maintain our facilities. I was impressed, however, with the engaging attitudes of staff and the energy of administrators. The staff there made the best of their situation, despite being in a building that is in dire need of renovation. We are indeed fortunate to live in Lincoln, where our community believes in supporting our schools – old and new. Where we prioritize maintaining existing facilities and build to accommodate growth. I also know we have engaged and dedicated staff that work each and every single day to meet the needs of ALL our children. One member of our staff that dedicated more than 20 years to the success of our schools and community was LPS Communications Director Mary Kay Roth. She retired earlier this week and I want to take a moment to thank Mary Kay for her incredible work with LPS. While her retirement is deserved, she will be greatly missed. Read more posts from Joel’s blog at: http://wp.lps.org/sjoel.

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

LPS STEP TEAMS PERFORM AT NEBRASKA WESLEYAN

Step teams from Dawes Middle School and Lincoln Southeast High School performed at inauguration festivities for new Nebraska Wesleyan University President Darrin Good on Oct. 4.

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

LPS student enrollment continues to grow The number of children served at Lincoln Public Schools continues to rise, hitting a new record 42,297 this school year. The enrollment numbers officially turned in to the Nebraska Department of Education Oct. 1 show there is an increase of 2,312 students, or 5.5 percent, during the past five years. Over the last 10 years, the district has seen growth of more than 6,403 students, or roughly 15 percent. This growth is occurring throughout the community – in both older and newer neighborhoods. “We continue to see significant growth all over Lincoln,” said Liz Standish, LPS associate superintendent for Business Affairs. “Our work updating the 10-year facility and infrastructure plan is critically important to the future of the school district.” “We want to thank the Lincoln community for its continued support in understanding the importance of public education to this growing city,” added Matt Larson, LPS associate superintendent for Instruction. “With our community’s support and partnership, we continue to provide quality teaching and learning throughout the city.”

Other Numbers of Note:

• Five LPS high schools continue to have enrollments exceeding 2,000. The largest high school is Lincoln High School — in central Lincoln — at 2,362. East High School grew the most in one year, adding 93 students and pushing it to 2,311. • During the past five years, Lincoln High served an additional 499 students and East added 563 students. North Star, Southeast and Southwest all have over 2,000 students this school year. • Scott Middle School — in south Lincoln — has the largest middle school enrollment with 1,113 students. Schoo — in northwest Lincoln — is the second largest in LPS with 916 students. • Park, Goodrich and Irving middle schools have in excess of 800 students. • Since Moore Middle School opened its doors in 2017 with 308 students, it has nearly doubled, with 612 students in 2019. • The largest elementary school is Roper Elementary — in west Lincoln — with 884 students. LPS has two other elementary schools exceeding 800, with Adams — in south Lincoln — serving 829, and Belmont — in north Lincoln — serving 821. • The largest class is fifth grade, with 3,267 students. * The official student enrollment count for LPS is recorded each year on or near Oct. 1, when numbers are reported to the State Department of Education.

Irving art teacher honored as best in state For the second time in three years, a Lincoln Public Schools art teacher has been honored as the best in the state.

Jennifer Bockerman from Moore Middle School won the same award in 2017. In Conley’s nomination letter, Bockerman said, “Kacee has worked diligently to Kacee Conley from Irving Middle create opportunities for her stuSchool was recently named the 2019 dents to think more deeply, explore Middle School Art Educator of the more passionately, and connect Year by the Nebraska Art Teachers personally with their own topics Association. She received the award of interest through art making and Sept. 27 at the organization’s state thinking.” conference in Nebraska City. Lorinda Rice, LPS art curriculum “Words can not express the gratispecialist, cited Conley’s many tude I hold for my colleagues who accomplishments and leadership nominated me for this award. This roles on both the state and national affirms that the district visual arts level, but equally emphasized her program is moving in the right contributions to the school district. direction,” Conley said. “We are providing space for students to “Kacee has been instrumental make meaningful connections to in developing new middle-level all aspects of their lives, to share curriculum and has taken on the their stories and to develop crerole of presenter of curriculum ative and critical thinking skills. and instruction to her peers,” Rice I am fortunate to be teaching in a said. “Kacee connects art making to district that provides opportunities topics of student interest outside of to collaborate with amazing teach- the art room, both through integraers and passionate leaders.” tion of other curriculum and global

thinking. Her focus on developing divergent thinkers, through various strategies, gives students who do not consider themselves

artists opportunities to understand how artistic practices can develop capabilities of creative thinking for future problem-finders.”

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

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.

Adams Elementary School

Arnold Elementary School

“Preschool got a visit from Enginge Company #4. Students learned important fire safety tips such as stop, drop and roll and how to make a safety plan.”

“Ms. Kristine’s preschool class started a tree study with a walk around Arnold to see what kind of trees are in our neighborhood.”

Goodrich Middle School

“Food truck wars in Ms. Horan’s Healthy Living Class were a success! Students enjoyed working together to create their truck designs, menus, and foods!”

Lincoln North Star High School

“KnightVision Broadcasting Club students team up with GatorWatch Broadcasting Club to live-stream a varsity volleyball game on the NFHS Network.”

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

Campbell Elementary School

“Wonderful day for a field trip! Kindergarten had a blast spending the day at Roca Berry Farms. #BetterTogether”

Irving Middle School

Brownell Elementary School

“Ms. Dorsey’s Reading Class is focusing on building a community this year. Their classroom mission is: ‘Reading doesn’t start at school, it begins in the home. Together let’s build a community of readers.’ Students went to decorate their own part of the sidewalk that demonstrates their individuality as well as a community together to support one another and build each other up.”

“First graders watched their painted lady butterflies emerge.”

Clinton Elementary School

“First grade was introduced to counting by tens with a fun pumpkin seed activity.”

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

A11

Astronomy Night at Beattie Elementary features telescope with special meaning for teacher Students and families who attended Beattie Elementary School’s first Astronomy Night on Oct. 11 had their choice of several telescopes to use. One of those telescopes, however, held special meaning. The event’s organizer, second-grade teacher Ashley Livers, brought the telescope she and her dad made for the LPS science fair when she was a fifth-grader at Fredstrom Elementary School more than a decade ago. “I had a very hands-on dad, and I remember telling him I wanted to do something about space,” said Livers, now in her second year teaching at Beattie. “I said, ‘Well, we could just buy a telescope.’ And he said, ‘Buy a telescope?’” Instead, they found instructions online for how to make their own. They bought the supplies and he helped her use the necessary power tools. The result was a telescope roughly four feet long, with a powerful lens about 12 inches in diameter. She remembers the science fair, held at Pershing Center, and how they made due without stars: They taped a quarter to the wall in the building’s upper section. “You could see it perfectly with the telescope,” Livers said. She got hooked on astronomy at a young age. She remembers family road trips to western Nebraska for star-watching parties. She recalls shorter trips to the Hyde Observatory in Lincoln that left her equally starry-eyed. “I just always have loved astronomy.” More than 150 students and family members signed up for Friday’s event at Beattie. They started inside, where they learned more about what they would see in the clear night sky and how telescopes make that possible. Then they moved outside, where they took turns on one of several telescopes. There was a second large telescope, made

“Hopefully it ignites a bit of passion because finding something that you’re passionate about, no matter what it is, that will take you far.” by Livers’ dad, as well as a few smaller telescopes donated by a Beattie alum who now works at a planetarium. Livers hopes Friday’s event had an impact on students similar to what she experienced at their age. “I hope they got out of it what I got out of it when I would go to the star parties, or when I would go to Hyde. Not everyone

has the resources to do that. So having it here at school, so they could walk here and it’s free - it’s a great opportunity,” she said. “I hope the students left with a feeling of excitement about learning - not even just about astronomy, but just being able to learn in general and outside of school hours. Hopefully it ignites a bit of passion because finding something that you’re passionate about, no matter what it is, that will take you far.”

November 2019 | Community News | Section A

A12

Science Focus Program celebrates new home The Lincoln Public Schools Science Focus Program held a dedication event for its new facility at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo on Sept. 29. There were multiple speakers, ranging from students to the zoo’s president and CEO to the president of the Lincoln Board of Education. But there seemed to be one word in particular that made its way into everyone’s remarks: community. “That is what truly represents the purpose of this school - community,” said Thea Seibel, a senior who has attended the Science Focus Program all four years of high school. “And yes, the Science Focus Program provides an extraordinary education to every student who walks through its doors. But what makes it truly unique is its ability to provide a curriculum that also emphasizes the importance of kindness, inclusivity and wonder.” Students and staff moved into the 15,000-square-foot facility at the beginning of the school year. It features three, 1,000-square-foot labs and four classrooms, as well as a multi-purpose room shared with the zoo. The program was previously housed in multiple portable classrooms and buildings at the zoo. Some other comments from the event’s speakers: • Kurt Glathar, Science Focus Program principal: “Let us as teachers, staff and community members dedicate ourselves to helping our students discover their passions and interests in the pursuit of science and in science education.” • Steve Joel, LPS superintendent: “There have been an awful lot of success stories that have come from the Science Focus Program and we’re most appreciative of the work of our staff and of course our partnership with the zoo.” • Lanny Boswell, president of the Lincoln Board of Education and parent of a Science Focus Program alum: “Those of us who know and love this program have always seen it as precious, priceless and beautiful. Today this polished program has a magnificent facility that is worthy of the quality teaching and learning that takes place within its walls.” • John Chapo, president and CEO of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, who had two sons attend the Science Focus Program: “The zoo and the Science Focus Program have something in common in mission: we’re both about education, both about youth...Speaking as a parent, this small community of learners is so powerful.” • Emily Rose Seifferlein, science teacher and department chair at the Science Focus Program: “I don’t have to tell you that this place is special. We are here to dedicate a commitment by this community to a unique learning environment for our city’s youth. And that is special.” • Ross Williams, senior at the Science Focus Program, also known as Zoo School: “Zoo School is probably the best thing that has happened to me throughout my four years of high school...Now the underclassmen will have time to make their own memories and to enjoy high school even more.” The Science Focus Program is one of five LPS focus programs and was the first, enrolling its first students in 1997. The program currently enrolls roughly 90 students from grades nine through 12. Students who attend the Science Focus Program remain students at their home schools, where they can participate in activities, athletics and social events. Students spend part of their mornings at their home school before attending the Science Focus Program for the rest of the day.

November 2019

Tackling word problems at Prescott Elementary Kaylee Tolle paused and shifted her eyes toward the ceiling. She was deep in thought. “I have a problem I need your help solving,” Tolle said to her second-grade students at Prescott Elementary School. Specifically, a two-step word problem, which was that day’s math lesson. The problem was projected on the whiteboard at the front of the classroom. She asked for volunteers to read the problem aloud for the rest of the class. ”There are 14 computers in the school library,” a boy named Ahnor said. “Five girls and three boys are each using a computer right now. How many more children can use a computer?” Before they dug into the word problem, Tolle reminded students of a strategy they discussed the previous day. “Before you start a word problem, you should stop and think. Why is it important for us to stop...and think? Olivia, why is that important?” “Because we need to know what to do and what not to do,” Olivia said. “Yes, that was perfect,” Tolle replied, before adding an encouraging phrase her students are used to hearing: “Kiss your brain!” Thousands of Lincoln Public Schools second-graders across 39 elementary schools are working on two-step word problems right now. The goal - and what’s included in state standards - is for students to learn math in a way that gives it context, so they understand how they can use math every day. LPS K-2 Mathematics Coordinator Susie Katt said Tolle’s lesson was a great example of that philosophy. “Math isn’t just about solving the problem,” she said. “It’s really an opportunity for them to think about what addition and subtraction mean.” Tolle and her class deliberately moved through the process of solving the problem. It involved answering multiple questions along the way, including: • The word problem is asking for what missing information? • What is the “hidden” question it asks? In this case, the stated question is, “How many more children can use a computer?” The hidden question is: “How many children are currently using a computer?” • They figured out how many students are currently using computers by using the equation 3 + 5 = 8. Now what equation did they need to figure out how many more students could use a computer? The class landed on the following equation to answer the problem’s main question: 14 - 8 equals... “Thinking… thinking…,” Tolle told her students. “This one should be fast because we just worked on it last week.” “Six!” the students responded. “Good job!”

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

Community Awareness Series Promoting Healthy Behaviors Our youth are our future’s greatest asset. Schools, parents, caregivers and communities all play a role in providing supportive pathways for our youth as they navigate childhood and adolescence. SCIP (School Community Intervention and Prevention) is partnering with Lincoln Public Schools, Bryan Independence Center and the Lancaster Prevention Leadership Team to put on a series of valuable presentations about how to support the health and wellbeing of our community’s youth. These events are open to parents, students, school professionals and community members.

Youth Gaming: When a Pastime becomes a Problem November 19, 2019 Lefler Middle School (Media Center) 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

As digital technology continues to advance, our youth are spending increasing amounts of time on electronic devices. Video games have become especially popular among children and adolescents. Technology has increased the accessibility of video games, with youth being able to game on computers, game consoles, tablets and smartphones. When can gaming move from an entertaining pastime, to a problem with negative consequences? The purpose of this presentation is to educate parents, caregivers and others who are invested in our youth on gaming use disorder. A disorder that often goes unnoticed in its early stages but can have harmful effects on our young people if not addressed. Licensed therapists Janet Johnson, MA, LIMHP, CDGC, LADC, LPC with Choices Treatment Center and Jeremy Eberle, MA, LIMHP, CDGC, PLADC with Eberle Therapy Services, will discuss: • The difference between problem gaming and gaming disorder • Signs and symptoms present with gaming disorder • Harmful effects of gaming disorder • The methods used to treat gaming addiction • Online safety as it relates to gaming Please contact Abbe Edgecombe, SCIP Coordinator for Lincoln-Lancaster County for questions or additional information: (402) 327-6841 or aedgecombe@lmep.com.

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

November TeamMates of the Month

Michael and Aiden: Laughter Is Their Best Medicine Saratoga Elementary is a special place for Michael and his mentee Aiden. Michael’s daughters attended the school, and a Saratoga staff member challenged him to become a TeamMate. For Aiden, it’s where he began school and his relationship with Michael. When Michael and Aiden began meeting in third grade, they formed several meaningful traditions: playing heated “Sorry” matches - a winners’ tally kept on Michael’s phone; building Lego creations; and talking football. Michael is a die-hard Packers fan, and Aiden, a Texan supporter. Aiden plays football on a youth league, and his interest in football has prompted his plan to attend Lincoln Southeast High School upon completion of eighth grade at Scott Middle School. As Michael and Aiden interact, there is bantering, ribbing, and bursts of laughter. “He thinks he’s sparky,” Aiden says with a grin. “We like to give each other a hard time,” Michael adds. But the two know when to set fun aside if there is an issue that needs attention. During middle school, Aiden has had to deal with some challenges. Michael’s been his sounding board through the struggles. “We’re both talkers,” Michael says, “but Aiden talks more, and I’m a good listener.”

Michael has been surprised by Aiden’s resiliency. “He’s tough.” “And quirky and weird,” Aiden adds. “It’s true,” Michael confirms, “but he owns it. He’s confident in who he is.” The friends share differences, as well. “He thinks. I do,” Aiden says summarizing how they process life uniquely.

Both Michael and Aiden have grown as a result of TeamMates. “It’s given me a chance to open up,” Aiden says. “I’ve learned that friends come in all ages,” Michael says. The two look at each other and burst into laughter. “Seriously, it’s great to have a person in your life you can talk and laugh with,” Aiden adds.

Although Aiden plans to pursue football, his back-up plan is training to be a chef. “I make my own version of the Big Juicy Lucy Burger that’s awesome.” Another round of laughter. Michael intends to mentor Aiden through his senior year. “One meeting a week, being someone constant in Aiden’s life is important to me,” Michael says. “I want to be someone he can look to as a role model.”

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

Reunification drill the latest effort to keep students safe Lincoln Public Schools continued its dedication to the safety of students and staff by conducting a reunification drill on Oct. 16. Reunification would occur after students and staff evacuate their building, walk to their school’s designated relocation site, but are unable to return to school because of continued safety concerns - for example, a gas leak or a fire. At that point, they would be bussed to another safe, alternative site, where parents could pick up their children. The October exercise involved roughly 170 7th-grade students and select staff from Irving Middle School, as well as LPS administrators and staff who were on hand to observe and offer suggestions for improving the process. Representatives from numerous local and state agencies also attended to offer feedback, including the Lincoln police and fire departments, Lancaster County Emergency Management and the Nebraska Department of Education. After their evacuation and relocation, the Irving students and staff were bussed to Lincoln Southwest High School. Southwest has been chosen as a potential alternative site for reunification due to its size and design. LPS Director of Security Joe Wright called the drill a success. “Obviously we’ll continue to improve our plan but I think we proved today that we can keep students safe and reunify them with their parents during an actual emergency,” Wright said. The “I Love U Guys” Foundation designed the reunification process used by LPS. This is the same organization that designed the other Standard Response Protocols used by the school district, such as Hold, Lockout and Lockdown. You can read more about the “I Love U Guys” Foundation’s reunification process at: https://iloveuguys.org/srm. html.

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

Remaining Learning Lunches: Tuesday, Nov. 19: “Meeting the Needs of All Students: Supporting our Students Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing” This session will provide an introduction to the supports, technology and services provided in our district for one of the fast-growing disability areas within LPS. Presenters: Alisha Bollinger, Special Education supervisor.

Tuesday, Dec. 17: “SROs: Understanding this Important Job” School Resource Officers wear many hats during their shift: mentor, teacher, investigator, guardian. Come hear how Lincoln Public Schools and the Lincoln Police Department have partnered to ensure our SROs successfully serve our students and staff. Presenters: Joe Wright, director of Security at LPS, and a representative from Lincoln Police Department.

Tuesday, Jan. 14: “Ensuring Students Have Adequate Learning Environments” Update on the 10-year LPS Facility and Infrastructure Plan. Presenter: Liz Standish, associate superintendent for Business Affairs

Tuesday, Feb. 18: “We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution” LPS Government students have the opportunity to showcase their civic and Constitutional knowledge through the “We the People” program and competition. Presenter: Jaci Kellison, K-12 curriculum specialist, social studies

Tuesday, March 17: “The Importance of Our Guest Teachers in LPS” The job of being a substitute teacher can be challenging, yet rewarding. This session will provide information about being a substitute teacher in Lincoln Public Schools and the opportunities that are available for professional growth and development. Presenters: Vann Price, LPS Human Resources Department supervisor for secondary personnel, and Kren Shellhase, administrative assistant.

Tuesday, April 21: “Take Charge, Career Readiness and Financial Responsibility: Lessons in Career and Personal Finance” Lessons from the classroom in teaching young people responsibility in career and personal finance. Presenters: Julie Hippen, assistant curriculum specialist for career and technical education, along with teachers and students.

Tuesday, May 12: “Creating Music on a Blank Canvas” The final Learning Lunch of the school year will focus on the creative aspect of music. All six LPS high schools offer various music courses that empower and foster students to learn the creative process of music composition and improvisation. Some of our talented high school students will share their experiences, inspiration and performances of creating their own original music. Presenter: Lance Nielsen, LPS supervisor of Music. LPS Learning Lunches are open to LPS staff and the Lincoln community. Learning Lunches are held in the boardroom at LPS District Office, 5905 O St. Doors open at 11:45 a.m., the program begins at noon, followed by questions-and-answers at 12:30 p.m. Please bring your own lunch – we’ll provide dessert

The ABCs of teaching ELL students Lincoln Public Schools serves roughly 3,000 English Language Learner (ELL) students. They come from 152 countries and speak more than 130 different languages. They all are welcome at LPS - and educating them is a responsibility the school district takes very seriously. “We need to be mindful and think about what are the best ways we can teach them the content and information that we want them to learn and use,” said Laura Salem, LPS ELL program supervisor. Salem and Kate Damgaard, LPS language curriculum specialist, shared some of the strategies and processes that LPS uses to educate ELL students at the latest Learning Lunch, “ABCs of Teaching English to Immigrant/Refugee Students,” held Oct. 15 in the boardroom at LPS District Office.

Salem and Damgaard led audience members through a few of these strategies. To learn the word “borborygmus,” for example, Damgaard had them close their eyes as she told a story about skipping breakfast, walking into the boardroom and smelling the delicious scent of someone’s lunch, a Baja chicken bowl. Because she was hungry, this led to a borborygmus: a rumbling sound made by the movement of gases in the stomach and intestine. A second strategy is the use of pictures. For this, audience members drew a picture of “cullet,” which is broken glass used for recycling. And for “hallux,” they used Play-Doh to create a physical model of the word’s definition: the big toe on a human or the first digit on the hind foot of some mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

Family Literacy event combines fun, games, career, community Nearly 600 parents and their elementary-age children who participate in the Lincoln Public Schools Family Literacy Program were treated to a special event at the Lincoln Children’s Museum on Sept. 24 - an event that not only provided creative playtime for students, but career and community resources for parents. The Family Literacy Program is a family-centered approach to education that brings students and their families together to learn. Parents meet daily at their student’s school not only for classes to improve their English speaking skills, but for job skills, community resources and Parent and Child Together Time (PACT), when they attend a class and learn alongside their students. The event kicked off year two of a partnership between the Family Literacy Program and the museum. Funded through a grant, families received free transportation to the museum, free admission and free memberships for the rest of the year.

Asher, LPS family engagement coordinator. “Events like this allow families an opportunity to see what is happening within the community while providing a time to have fun as a family.”

“It is amazing to see families experience the Children's Museum for the first time and see the excitement they have as they explore,” said Monica

During the event, attendees also had the opportunity to attend an adjoining job and resource fair, where they learned about available career pathways in

the manufacturing, health and skilled trade industries. There was information about community resources for after-school programs, athletics and education. The LPS Federal Programs Department and the museum partnered with EmployLNK to offer the job and resource fair. A grant from the Mirian Moeller Charitable Trust paid for the museum memberships.

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

ESUs serve students, educators, school districts Educational Service Units – ESUs – are called “service units” because their main objective is to serve the needs of Nebraska’s school districts, educators and students. Created by the Legislative in 1965 to provide services to enhance educational excellence, ESUs exist in order to provide access to core services deemed vital to a child’s education by the state of Nebraska. ESU services across the state can include high-quality professional learning for educators, technology and network infrastructure, library and media services, and support with curriculum, assessment and services for students with special needs. ESU 18 is rather unusual in serving more than 42,000 students at Lincoln Public Schools, which means that service unit has the ability to focus on the needs of a singular district. ESU 18 funds a variety of programs to enhance education for LPS students, including these major areas: • Ongoing leadership coaching for principals • Access to technology for students and staff

• Information management • Large scale state and district assessments • Data analysis • School improvement planning • Professional learning • Student access to high-quality library and media resources, both online and in print However, no ESU in Nebraska works in isolation – they are especially powerful

and effective because they work as a network. Nebraska’s ESUs, along with the ESU Coordination Council, have built a tight network of collaboration that not only benefits educators, but makes a direct impact on the quality of education each child receives in Nebraska. That means single-district ESUs often partner with the greater ESU network for the benefit of Nebras-

ka students, collaborative efforts that directly impact student access to rigorous curriculum and content – as well as saving time and money for other districts and ESUs. For example, in addition to the core services ESU 18 provides to LPS, the service unit contracts with other Nebraska ESUs and almost 40 school districts to provide services for students who are deaf and/or hard of hearing.

ESU 18 also partners with other ESUs and school districts across the state to provide coordinated access to distance learning opportunities. Thanks to the ESU’s NVIS (Nebraska Virtual Instruction Sources) students have access to almost 300 courses, such as architectural design, Chinese and pre-engineering – courses that may not be available in their home district.

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

2019 LPS MARCHING BAND INVITATIONAL More than 3,100 spectators were treated to performances from 23 bands as the Lincoln Public Schools Music Department hosted the 39th annual Marching Band Invitational Contest on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Seacrest Field.

RESULTS FOR LINCOLN PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS: Outstanding Percussion - Lincoln Southeast High School Southwest High School - Rating I (Superior) North Star High School - Rating II (Excellent) East High School - Rating I (Superior) Lincoln High School - Rating II (Excellent) Northeast High School - Rating I (Superior) Southeast High School - Rating I (Superior) Southwest 9th Grade Marching Band - Exhibition East 9th Grade Marching Band - Exhibition

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

B10

Tips: Surviving Holiday Season Stress by Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT LPS District Wellness Facilitator Health is your biggest gift. Being sick at the holidays can be the pits. Who has time for that? Tips: Improve your family’s odds by getting flu vaccinations and keeping good hand-washing practices in place for you and your family. Use different towels or disposable hand towels when family members are ill and sanitize all door handles and items touched frequently, such as remote controls. Be choosy with your time. Squeezing holiday activities into an already busy family calendar can be tricky. Tips: This year, take a step back and consider the importance of your bonus activities, rating them on a one to 10 scale. Consider paring back on those lowest ranked items to free up time for the more important items and at the same time, decreasing your stress. Recognize your triggers. Do you roll back to old, less healthy habits when you are under stress or lacking sleep? Be it tobacco use, over-spending or less healthy snacking, most of us experience more slip-ups at times of stress - after they have happened. Tips: This year, give yourself the gift of pre-awareness and build preventative plans to thwart the tide of backslide. One example: pop in gum or mints to prevent store sample snacking. Build centering activities in your routine. Walking. Journaling. Deep breathing while waiting in the drop-off or pick-up traffic. Tip: Crack open your toolbox of centering activities that help you find your calm and focus during this hectic season. Each person is unique. Do what works for you and keep seeking more tools to help. Focus on meaning instead of stuff. Some years are tighter than others. Those in your gift giving circles are likely to understand if you give them an early heads up that you’d like to ratchet back costs of gifts for the year so there isn’t an imbalance. Tip: Instead, focus on the meaning of the gifts or giving gifts of time that others will truly appreciate. If you are exchanging with them, chances are strong that fun time with you is what they’d like the most. Chose the best, leave the rest. Worried about weight gain due to holiday treats and parties? Tip: Stay focused on enjoying a few seasonal treats that are meaningful to you and that you savor without guilt by skipping the many surprise treats that pop up along your path. Wishing you and your family a meaningful and healthy holiday season.

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

10/22/2019

B11

MealViewer Schools

NOVEMBER 2019

Breakfast / Beattie Elementary November Breakfast MONDAY

Cocoa Puffs Filled Pastry Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Apple Juice Mixed Berry Cup

Mini Chocolate Chip French Toast Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Apple Juice Mixed Berry Cup

Mini Confetti Pancake Bites Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Apple Juice Mixed Berry Cup

Cocoa Puffs Filled Pastry Frosted Flakes Cereal Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bar Yogurt Apple Juice Mixed Berry Cup

TUESDAY

10/21/2019

Rolled Egg, Potato & Turkey Sausage Taco Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

Breakfast Beef Sausage Sandwich Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

Egg & Cheese on English Muf�n Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

Rolled Egg, Potato & Turkey Sausage Taco Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Super Stik Hard Boiled Egg Grape Juice Applesauce Cup

WEDNESDAY

Apple Stick Froot Loops Cereal Mini Chocolate Chip Loaf Yogurt Orange Juice Strawberry Cup

Cinnamon Bun Stick Froot Loops Cereal Mini Chocolate Chip Loaf Yogurt Orange Juice Strawberry Cup

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Breakfast Bar Froot Loops Cereal Mini Chocolate Chip Loaf Yogurt Orange Juice Strawberry Cup

No School

THURSDAY

Mini Cinnis Apple Jacks Cereal Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Apple Cherry Juice Raisins

Maple Waf�e Chicken Sausage Sandwich Cocoa Flakes Cereal Hard Boiled Egg Mini Breakfast Bar Fruit Blend Juice Peach Cup

Pancake Sausage on a Stick Cocoa Flakes Cereal Mini Breakfast Bar Hard Boiled Egg Fruit Blend Juice Peach Cup

Breakfast Pizza Cocoa Flakes Cereal Mini Breakfast Bar Hard Boiled Egg Fruit Blend Juice Peach Cup

Chicken Nuggets Breaded Pork Sandwich Chef Salad Chik'n Nuggets Meatless Chef Salad Baked Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Warm Cinnamon Apple Slices Pineapple Tidbits Roll

Popcorn Chicken Cheeseburger on Bun Chef Salad Garlic French Bread Pizza Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Croissant

Chicken Fingers Personal Hamburger Pizza Chef Salad Veggie Burger Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Biscuit

Muchos Nachos Country Beef Sandwich Chef Salad Black Bean Salsa Burger Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Sweet Blueberries with Whipped Topping Diced Peaches Roll

Soft Shell Taco Chef Salad Cheese Ravioli Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Orange Wedges Diced Peaches Roll

WEDNESDAY

Mac & Cheese Mexi Pizza Chef Salad Black Bean Salsa Stuffed Wrap Meatless Chef Salad Baby Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Grapes Applesauce Roll Brownie Treat

Tangerine Chicken on Brown Rice Chef Salad Stuffed Crust Cheese Pizza Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Fresh Pear Applesauce Roll

Lemon Chicken on Brown Rice Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Chef Salad Black Bean & Rice Bowl Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Banana Applesauce Roll

Creamed Turkey on Whipped Potatoes Salisbury Steak Chef Salad Chik'n Veggie Wrap Meatless Chef Salad Whipped Potatoes with Gravy Romaine Lettuce Salad Very Berry Applesauce Gelatin Diced Pears Roll Fat Free Strawberry Milk Frosted Spice Bar

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Hot Dog on Bun Chef Salad Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Baby Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Sweet Blueberries with Whipped Topping Diced Pears Garlic Bread

November Secondary Lunch

Chicken Nuggets Breaded Pork Sandwich Pizza Flavored Breadsticks with Marinara Sauce Chef Salad Chik'n Nuggets Meatless Chef Salad Baked Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Warm Cinnamon Apple Slices Pineapple Tidbits Roll

Popcorn Chicken Cheeseburger on Bun Chef Salad Garlic French Bread Pizza with Marinara Sauce Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Croissant

TUESDAY

Taco Chalupa Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Honey Sriracha Boneless Wings Chef Salad Bean & Cheese Chalupa Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Orange Wedges Diced Peaches Jalapeno Cornbread Roll

Muchos Nachos Country Beef Sandwich Philly Chicken Sub Chef Salad Black Bean Salsa Burger Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Sweet Blueberries with Whipped Topping Diced Peaches Jalapeno Cornbread Roll

WEDNESDAY

Mac & Cheese Mexi Pizza Hot Turkey Ham & Cheese Sandwich Chef Salad Black Bean Salsa Stuffed Wrap Meatless Chef Salad Baby Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Grapes Applesauce Roll

Tangerine Chicken on Brown Rice Lasagna Chef Salad Stuffed Crust Cheese Pizza Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Fresh Pear Applesauce Garlic Breadstick Roll

https://schools.mealviewer.com/school/BeattleElementary/print?month=10&year=2019&blockId=1157

Chicken Fingers Personal Hamburger Pizza Sloppy Joe on Bun Chef Salad Veggie Burger Meatless Chef Salad Crinkle Fries Romaine Lettuce Salad Apple Wedges Pineapple Tidbits Biscuit

Soft Shell Taco Sub Sandwich Chef Salad Cheese Ravioli Meatless Chef Salad Refried Beans Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Orange Wedges Diced Peaches Garlic Breadstick Roll

Taco Chalupa Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Honey Sriracha Boneless Wings Chef Salad Bean & Cheese Chalupa Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Romaine Lettuce Salad Diced Peaches Assorted Fruit Jalapeno Cornbread Roll

No School

Lemon Chicken on Brown Rice Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza Nebraska Bun Chef Salad Black Bean & Rice Bowl Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Banana Applesauce Roll

No School

French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links Personal BBQ Chicken Pizza Chef Salad French Toast Sticks with Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

Corn Puppies Grilled Cheese Sandwich Chef Salad Bean Burrito Meatless Chef Salad Savory Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

Breaded Chicken Sandwich Personal 3 Meat Pizza Chef Salad Chik'n Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll Frosted Chocolate Cake

No School

1/1

NOVEMBER 2019

THURSDAY

Nebraska Thursdays BBQ Chicken Homemade Chili Chef Salad Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with Marinara Sauce Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Strawberry Cup Diced Pears Frosted Cinnamon Roll

Creamed Turkey on Whipped Potatoes Salisbury Steak Meat Loaf Chef Salad Chik'n Veggie Wrap Meatless Chef Salad Whipped Potatoes with Gravy Romaine Lettuce Salad Very Berry Applesauce Gelatin Diced Pears Roll Fat Free Strawberry Milk Frosted Spice Bar

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce Hot Dog on Bun Personal Hawaiian Pizza Chef Salad Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce and Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Baby Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Sweet Blueberries with Whipped Topping Diced Pears Garlic Bread

No School

FRIDAY Breaded Chicken Sandwich Personal 3 Meat Pizza Chef Salad Chik'n Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

Nebraska Thursdays BBQ Chicken Chef Salad Mozzarella Cheese Sticks with Marinara Sauce Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Strawberry Cup Diced Pears Cinnamon Roll

Lunch / East High

Mini Cinnis Apple Jacks Cereal Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Apple Cherry Juice Raisins

THURSDAY

Chicken Nuggets Taco Chalupa No School No School Breaded Pork Sandwich Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice https://schools.mealviewer.com/school/BeattleElementary/print?month=10&year=2019&blockId=1156 Chef Salad Chef Salad Chik'n Nuggets Bean & Cheese Chalupa Meatless Chef Salad Meatless Chef Salad Baked Beans Golden Corn Romaine Lettuce Salad Romaine Lettuce Salad 10/21/2019 MealViewer Schools Warm Cinnamon Apple Slices Diced Peaches Pineapple Tidbits Assorted Fruit Roll Roll

MONDAY

Chocolate Crescent Apple Jacks Cereal Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Apple Cherry Juice Raisins

NOVEMBER 2019

TUESDAY

Taco Chalupa Cherry Chicken on Brown Rice Chef Salad Bean & Cheese Chalupa Meatless Chef Salad Golden Corn Shredded Lettuce & Tomato Orange Wedges Diced Peaches Roll

Mini Strawberry Bagels Apple Jacks Cereal Super Star Donut Hole Yogurt Apple Cherry Juice Raisins

MealViewer Schools

Lunch / Beattie Elementary

No School

November Elementary Lunch MONDAY

FRIDAY

FRIDAY Breaded Chicken Sandwich Personal 3 Meat Pizza Baja Chicken, Cheese & Rice Burrito Chef Salad Cheese Omelet on English Muf�n Chik'n Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

French Toast Sticks with Sausage Links Personal BBQ Chicken Pizza Hot & Spicy Chicken Sandwich Chef Salad French Toast Sticks with Cheese Sticks Meatless Chef Salad Sweet Peas Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

Corn Puppies Grilled Cheese Sandwich Fish & Cheese Sandwich Chef Salad Bean Burrito Meatless Chef Salad Savory Carrots Romaine Lettuce Salad Tomato Soup Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

Breaded Chicken Sandwich Personal 3 Meat Pizza Baja Chicken, Cheese & Rice Burrito Chef Salad Chik'n Sandwich Meatless Chef Salad Green Beans Romaine Lettuce Salad Mixed Fruit Assorted Fruit Roll

No School

15 1/1

November 2019 | Community News | Section B

B12

Maxey Elementary School celebrates 25 years

axey Elementary School celebrated its 25th anniversary at a special event on Sept. 29, one that featured its first principal and family members of the school's namesake.

The school is named after JoAnn Maxey, who was Nebraska's first female African-American state senator and the first African-American member of the Lincoln Board of Education. She passed away from cancer in 1992 at the age of 54. Her daughter Charlene Maxey-Harris spoke at Sunday's event, as did Pat Decker, who served as the school's principal from its opening until 2011. Also speaking were LPS Superintendent Steve Joel, Lincoln Board of Education President Lanny Boswell and current Principal Suzanne Reimers. At the end of the program, music teacher Sylvia Bailey - who has taught at Maxey since it opened - led the fifth-grade choir and strings players in the school song.