April 2023 Community News

Donation extends the gift of music at LPS

Goodrich Middle School seventh-grader Marley discovered her passion for the violin in fourth grade.

“I like playing in the orchestra and the violin because of the people around me. It’s just a fun environment to hang out. I really like sharing my knowledge of music and the music that we play with others,” she said.

More Lincoln Public Schools students now experience the gift of music thanks to a generous donation from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. The foundation recently donated string and band instruments worth approximately $122,300 to five LPS schools: Belmont, Clinton and Hartley elementary schools, and Goodrich and Park middle schools. These schools were selected based on their free and reduced lunch percentage. This is the first time LPS has applied for the donation.

The gift will enhance each school’s music inventory by adding instruments and replacing older ones. The new instruments will also help students and families who cannot buy or rent their instruments – widening access to music education in schools.

“I think it’s a good idea to be getting more instruments because it gives more people a sense of what they might want to do and a chance for more people to get to play the instruments to experiment and understand the true quality of music,” Goodrich eighth grade student Yman said.

“Without this gift, there would be the possibility that I would have to turn students away or not be able to give

them their first choice in instrument. The gratitude I feel for this gift cannot be measured in words, but only in the lives that are impacted through music we can create with the gift,” elementary school music teacher John Bailey said. He helps teach band at Hartley Elementary School.

Goodrich orchestra director Sarah Baker added, “Public education is defined by the responsibility to provide for every student that walks through the door. This gift of instruments means I'll be able to meet the needs of more students, especially those without the financial means to access the opportunity outside of school."

LPS will receive approximately 110 new instruments from the foundation. They will be distributed to the five schools by the end of the year.

WHAT’S INSIDE:

Thank You Teacher

Five educators were selected from 500 nominations for the annual event. The students, along with their nominators, were celebrated at a breakfast ceremony. Page A12

Book donation

Volunteers from United Way of Lincoln donated books and read to students at Clinton Elementary School. Page B1

Celebrating culture

The first annual African Diaspora Symposium at Northeast High School had vendors and live performances. Organizers hope it will foster community and awareness. Page B12

SECTION A:

A5 TeamMates of the month: Laura and Katiana

A6 Sustainability at LPS: Celebrating Earth Day

A8 ConnectLPS

A10 LPS adds more Safety Social Workers to help school security

LPS awarded federal grant to fund additional elementary counselors

A11 Annual Reception Survey

A12 Educators celebrated at annual Thank You Teacher Breakfast

SECTION B:

B1 United Way volunteers distribute books, read to students at Clinton Elementary

B5 Looking for a book?

B7 Morley celebrates Nebraska statehood with gubernatorial visit

B9 Wellness column: Six secrets to end the school year strong, prepare for summer

B10 Menus

B12 First annual African Diaspora Symposium builds connections with Northeast community

Building Blocks: SEL family activities to try at home

At Lincoln Public Schools, we know students with strong social and emotional skills thrive. They succeed academically, personally and relationally. We use the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum Second Step to teach these life skills to students in grades Pre-K through seventh.

Our SEL lessons are a collaboration between students, their families and educators. You can help us reinforce and build upon the lessons we teach at school by participating in these activities at home with your child.

This semester, your student is learning about empathy, kindness and problem-solving.

Partner with us to help your child excel by trying these activities with your family:

• If problems or disagreements arise at home, ask your child to suggest a way to help solve the problem.

• Choose a day of the week (for example, Wednesdays) as “kindness day.” Help your child think of kind acts they can do for family members, friends, or neighbors. Write the kind acts on the calendar for the next several weeks.

• Ask your child to name one of their friends and explain what makes them a good friend.

• Point out something that has changed for the better in your neighborhood recently. Ask your child why they think that change is helpful. Point out how empathy might have helped someone decide to make that change.

Visit our SEL website at https://home.lps.org/sel/ and discover more family activities and grade-specific lessons.

District Art Show

The public event will be at the Steve Joel District Leadership Center (formerly known as District Office) at 5905 O St. and the Hawthorne Building at 300 S. 48th St.

The display showcases more than 200 works of art created by elementary student artists from across our school district.

If you cannot attend the Open House on April 23, you may view the exhibit on display at Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center during the week of April 24 -28. After the exhibit, local businesses will showcase

artwork throughout Lincoln for the remainder of the year.

Laura and Katiana: Busy hands, strong bonds

It’s early in the school day when Laura and her TeamMates mentor Katiana are in the library at Northeast High School immersed in a service project.

“We do all of them,” Laura said. “They’re fun. Mostly. Except when we can’t figure out the directions.”

The pair’s service projects align well with a lesson mentor Katiana learned in her professional life.

“When hands are moving, talking is more comfortable for young people,” Katiana said.

The movement of their hands helped spark their relationship. Laura admits she was shy and hesitant to talk to her new mentor when they met at Hartley Elementary seven years ago. As time went on, the two built trust.

“She isn’t like any other adult. If I fail a test, she just says, ‘It’s okay. You got this. Let’s talk about it,’” Laura added.

Their trust would become important as Laura met a series of unexpected challenges. Her truck was damaged in a storm and a loved one died during her sophomore year.

“I just knew I had someone I could talk with about it,” Laura said.

Their intentional time together helped to make it comfortable to share hard things and gave Katiana a chance to be there for Laura.

It’s no surprise that “supportive” topped Laura’s list of ways she’d describe her mentor.

“I know I can always go to you and you’ll be there,” Laura said to Katiana.“You’re very supportive of what I do - my decisions and I appreciate that.”

Katiana’s openness allows Laura to learn all about her mentor’s life like family, weddings and travel. This access also allows Laura to try new things with her mentor like carving pumpkins and making holiday ornaments for fun.

“You don’t do those things unless your family does, but my family doesn’t so I like just being able to do that with her,” Laura said

Laura’s humor and compassion also connect the pair.

“With her big family and friends, she’s like a mother figure. I relate to that and that is why I

remind her often that she also needs to remember to take care of herself,” Katiana said.

Laura’s caring, helpful ways don’t stop with her human connections. She has chickens, dogs and cats. She does wildlife rescue too, taking care of baby raccoons.

Whether playing games or filling the pages of adult coloring books, bonding through activity is something that stuck.

“The time I spend mentoring is something to look forward to, going to see Laura, to see what she’s been doing,” Katiana said.

The TeamMates now not only use their hands to ignite conversation but also plan for the future.

We are working on scholarships and getting ready for college. I have literally been watching her grow up for the past seven years,” Katiana added.

“I know that past college we’ll still be connected,” Laura said. A lifetime friendship started by TeamMates.

“The time I spend mentoring is something to look forward to, going to see Laura, to see what she’s been doing.”

Sustainability Sustainability

at Lincoln Public Schools

Celebrate Earth Day!

Earth Day is coming up on Saturday, April 22. This international celebration recognizes the importance of our environment and appreciates all of the wonderful experiences and resources nature provides.

Lincoln Public Schools strives to be a leader in environmental and sustainability efforts in the community with programs that include waste diversion, energy efficiency and outdoor learning.

Here are a few examples of how our students and staff celebrate Earth Day daily!

Garden Clubs: Campbell, Riley, & Saratoga elementary schools

Many schools have clubs dedicated to supporting their gardens. The LPS Sustainability team partnered with Campbell, Riley, and Saratoga elementary clubs through the winter to support their gardens. Students participated in activities like planning their gardens for spring, learning about the creatures that support them and writing nature-themed poems.

NRD Nature Night: Prescott Elementary School

The Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (NRD) is one of many outstanding community partners to support environmental education in our schools. They offered nature nights for school families to attend like this great event at Prescott. Students and their families discovered more about Nebraska’s Natural Resources.

Sustainability Experiences: Hartley, Saratoga, Prescott, Kooser elementary schools

Several elementary schools hosted a “sustainability experience” on their early release days this year. Those experiences included activities covering recycling, composting, energy conservation and litter prevention.

Robinson Elementary School: Bring your own water bottle

Robinson Elementary organized a Bring Your Own Water Bottle Campaign to encourage students to reduce the waste of disposable water bottles or cups. The school also displayed educational posters about how using a reusable water bottle benefits the environment and controls waste production.bottle benefits the environment and controls waste production.

Kloefkorn Elementary School: Poet-tree

The first-grade students at Kloefkorn Elementary performed an outdoor learning activity called “poet-tree” this winter. Looking at the snow and ice-covered trees allowed the students to pull inspiration from nature for their writing lesson.

Roper Elementary School: Tower Garden

The winter season can make it challenging to practice our gardening skills, but luckily many buildings have tower gardens! This year, Roper Elementary fifthgrade students had their first harvest and tasted a variety of lettuce from their tower garden.

Celebrate Earth Day at home with these tips:

Attend the Lincoln Earth Day celebration on April 15, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Nebraska Innovation Campus. More info can be found at: https://lincolnearthday.org/

Walk, bike, or carpool to work or school

Students of Sustainability (S.O.S.) Summit

Student leaders from our high schools gathered for the first-ever Students of Sustainability Summit (S.O.S.). They shared how their environmentally focused clubs are organizing, advocating, and taking action at their school and in the community.

Take a walk outside and pick up the litter

Plant a tree or some native flowers

Practice using your reusable bags and water bottle

To support our school communities in celebrating Earth Day, the Sustainability Team has put together bingo cards with activities in the areas of energy, waste, climate action, water and nature.

You can access those bingo cards on our website at https://home.lps.org/ sustainability/ under “Earth Day Resources.”

Switch to non-toxic cleaning products by making your own

Clean out your closet and donate any items that aren’t needed

Commit to one green act a day – don’t forget to gather ideas from our Earth Day Bingo cards

ConnectLPS

Cavett Elementary School

“Mrs. Linderman’s 5th graders enjoyed celebrating Read Across America Week. You’re never too old to come down to the carpet and enjoy a good Dr. Suess book!”

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.

personalized mugs to end out the quarter!”

Dawes Middle School

“Third grade students welcomed baby chicks as part of their science life skills unit!”

had a fun night watching staff play ball and partnered together to raise over $1,800 for the BackPack Program. Go Diamondbacks!”

Basketball program this season. Showing up to games in the Johnson gym, joining us for a send-off celebration, and packing PBA with loud Link fans helped make this season nothing short of incredible.”

Schoo Middle School

“Schoo band and orchestra students participated in the annual LPS Solo/Ensemble Contest. They performed at a high level and represented our school well! #LetSchoo”

LPS adds more safety social workers

Lincoln Public Schools recently added a new member to the threat assessment team.

Safety Social Worker Kristi Lange joined the team of four in January.

Lange and her colleagues assist with keeping more than 41,000 students safe. They collaborate with students who are at risk and their families to prevent unsafe situations. The Threat Assessment staff connects them to school and community resources like mental health services. Lange is now one of the two social workers on the team.

“I provide a non-judgmental approach when working with them and help them identify what things they feel are going well for them, build upon those strengths, but also help them identify what areas in their life they need the most help and start there. It’s really about meeting them where they are,” Lange said.

LPS has more than 40 school social workers working to build relationships with students, families and staff to identify the best possible solutions. Lange and fellow safety social worker Allyson Headrick focus on prevention by assessing reported concerns, intervening and monitoring before it reaches a crisis.

“LPS school social workers are master-level clinical social workers and licensed mental health practitioners, so we bring a unique skill set into our schools,” Lange added. “With our mental health expertise, we are able to connect the dots when something seems amiss and effectively help students and families get connected to additional supports.”

The threat assessment team works on approximately 120 cases each year. Some cases carry over from the previous year. The increased volume made it clear that an extra social worker was needed to serve students and families better.

“For every case that is successfully managed, we are creating a safer environment and preventing violence from occurring,” Jon Sundermeier said. Sundermeier is one of the security coordinators and leads the threat assessment staff.

Lange brings excellent expertise. She graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a master's degree in Social Work. She is a licensed mental health practitioner and licensed clinical social worker. She’s worked for LPS for the past five years, including serving as the social worker at Riley Elementary School. She also served as a therapist at a substance use treatment facility helping teens and adults before coming to LPS.

“Kristi has experience and expertise in behavioral health and a broad understanding of available resources in the community,” Sundermeier said.

“She also brings certification and expertise in drug and alcohol abuse and addiction to the team, which will enhance our team's ability to address this risk factor."

“Our staff and students deserve a safe learning environment each and every day,” Lange said. “Being a part of a team that actively works to ensure that happens is what motivates me to continue to help improve safety outcomes with our students and families.”

LPS awarded federal grant to fund additional elementary counselors

Lincoln Public Schools is increasing support for its youngest scholars. The U.S. Department of Education recently awarded LPS a $7 million SchoolBased Mental Health Services Grant over five years, which will help add a full-time counselor to every elementary school.

“Never has it been more crucial that elementary students in particular have access to a professional with knowledge and expertise on mental health issues and strategies to mitigate those issues,” LPS Federal Program Director Linda Hix said.

Elementary school counselors lead the implementation of social-emotional skill development for students, allowing them to develop healthy identities and manage emotions. They also help teach other key life skills like feeling and showing empathy for others and making responsible and caring decisions.

“School counselors have a unique skill set. School counselors are educators that serve to help students learn skills that can help them be successful in school and beyond,” Lori Hemmett said. Hemmett is the supervisor for school counselors and school social workers.

“School counselors in elementary schools are critical to the development of a schoolwide culture that is both safe and caring and encourages academic excellence,” Hix added.

Currently, only 30 of the 40 LPS elementary schools have full-time counselors. Riley is one of those 30 schools. Rachel George serves as the school counselor, and acts as a liaison between students, teachers and families to help kids thrive in and out of the classroom.

“I am able to focus on feelings and emotions in all areas of our building. We are now using a common language, which makes social and emotional learning equitable to all students. Our goal is to help students be able to manage and regulate their big feelings,” George added.

“Now that we’ve had a full-time, on-site counselor for two years, I can’t imagine how we did things without one. Our counselor works so well with the rest of our staff to focus on the whole child,” Riley principal Jeff Bjorkman said.

“Our staff and students deserve a safe learning environment each and every day. Being a part of a team that actively works to ensure that happens is what motivates me to continue to help improve safety outcomes with our students and families.”

Baseball / Softball

Ages 7-14

As of 11/15/2023

4 separate age brackets (7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13/14)

• PITCH Throw 5 pitches at “Strike Zone” target (B-45’, S-35’)

• HIT Hit 3 balls from Tee for distance and accuracy Contestants may bring their own bat)

• RUN Timed 90 ft. Straight run.

4 FREE Lincoln Contests

6 - 7:30 pm April 11 - 14

Hosted by the Star City Optimist

Youth Foundation

ANNUAL LPS PERCEPTION SURVEY

Tuesday April 11

Kahoa Elementary, 7700 Leighton Ave

Wednesday April 12

Fredstrom Elementary, 5700 NW 10th St

Thursday April 13

Humann Elementary, 6401 Beaver Creek Lane

Friday, April 14

Maxey Elementary, 5200 S. 75th

(Contestants may compete in only 1 Lincoln contest)

Questions??

Bob Grundman (402 -489-9171)

Each year Lincoln Public Schools sends out a District Perception Survey to various stakeholders – staff, students and parents – to gather information about how they view their school. Results from this important anonymous survey provide feedback to school staff and administrators, and are used to improve teaching, learning and the school environment. In addition, portions of the results are used to inform the effectiveness of our programs to those who administer federal grants to Lincoln Public Schools.

Here’s how you can participate:

• Check the email we have on file for a personalized link from lps-esu18@qualtrics-survey.com.

• Complete the survey by Friday, April 14, 2023.

Note: students will complete their surveys during the school day. If you have questions about the survey or have not received the link in your email, contact Dawn Mazzie at dmazzie@lps.org.

Educators celebrated at annual Thank You Teacher Breakfast

Five educators were selected among 500 written nominations in the annual Lincoln Public Schools Thank You Teacher event, which asks students and families throughout the community to write about how a favorite teacher impacted their lives. The winning educators and students were honored this year at the annual Lincoln Public Schools Thank You Teacher breakfast ceremony, held Tuesday at the Governor’s Mansion as part of Nebraska Teacher Recognition activities.

Jill St. James from co-sponsor Alpha Media, KFOR and KFRX emceed the event. LPS Superintendent Paul Gausman, Lincoln Board of Education President Don Mayhew and Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen addressed those in attendance. Each emphasized the vital role that teachers play in the lives of students.

“Indeed, teachers provide so much for our students,” said Gausman. “You provide inspiration, motivation, and ultimately – dependability. In honor of this teacher recognition event I thank you for the countless hours you dedicate to our children. I thank you for your relentless commitment to our students. May today be a reminder of how appreciated and adored you are.”

Mayhew added, “Today, we have the privilege of honoring five teachers who demonstrate the power that relationships have and the difference that people in our classrooms make. As you will hear today from our letter writers, these teachers’ influence ripples far beyond one or two students. It inspires multiple generations.”

Governor Pillen also said to the crowd, “Think about the three people who have made an incredible impact on our lives. I bet the farm that everybody has one that is a teacher or coach. We have to inspire more kids to become teachers, it is the greatest and most rewarding career. Thank you teachers for making a difference for future generations.”

Letter writers read their nominations aloud, followed by remarks from the winning educators. As usual with this event, there were tears and sniffles from most of the honorees and many in the audience.

FROM TOP LEFT:

Preschool - Grade 2: Kayla Finley, preschool teacher at McPhee Elementary School; nominated by parent Kaitlin Ferris.

Grades 3-5: Cassidy Sostad, fourth grade teacher at Hill Elementary School; nominated by former student Addy Ackerman, sixth grade student at Scott Middle School.

Middle School: Ashley Forbes, Life Skills teacher at Irving Middle School; nominated by parents Julie and Tregg Lunn.

High School: Shannon Quible, North Star business department chair; nominated by North Star High School junior TT Thai.

Retired: Sara Mann, former Northeast High School teacher; nominated by Cecilia Burda, current Northeast High School teacher.

United Way volunteers distribute books and read to students at Clinton Elementary School

On multiple occasions every year, United Way mobilizes volunteers from Lincoln’s top workplaces to read and distribute books to students at local elementary schools. One such occasion, Read Across America, is a national reading event that takes place each year on or around March 2. United Way has long supported this event at Campbell and McPhee elementary schools.

Both the distribution of books and the reading aloud are important aspects of the event. Reading aloud is known to improve language development and boost literacy skills, while books at home propel the child forward academically and has been shown to break the link between poverty and poor academic outcomes. Some of the kids tell volunteers it is the first book they get to call their own.

Campbell and McPhee elementary schools are supported through United Way’s ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. initiative which ensures that children and their families have the opportunity to succeed in school and life regardless of their circumstances. This year, ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. is expanding to include Clinton Elementary School. On March 2, in celebration of Read Across America, this will be the first time United Way volunteers are entering Clinton Elementary School.

“Clinton Elementary is fortunate to have the opportunity to be included in United Way’s ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. initiative. This partnership will benefit our scholars and provide additional opportunities for learning. We appreciate being included in this impactful initiative,” says Angee Luedtke Clinton principal.

In addition to volunteering that takes place regularly throughout the year, the schools receive funding from ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. that makes it possible to provide additional supports to students and their families, such as family literacy, mental health supports, and after school programs to name a few. Specifically at Clinton, this will provide for the school community coordinator at their Community Learning Center, whose lead agency is CEDARS, as well as the ability to expand mental health support to students.

"Our Community Learning Centers are successful because of partnerships like the one with United Way. With both the financial support, as well as connecting caring volunteers to our schools the students, families and neighborhood thrive,” says Nola Derby-Bennett, director of Lincoln Community Learning Centers.

ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. is a joint undertaking by United Way’s Women United and United Way’s Emerging Leaders United, two

groups of donors who pledge their support to this specific cause.

“My fellow Women United and Emerging Leaders United members are proud to be expanding ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. to include Clinton Elementary School and support more students,“ says Michelle St.Clair, of Perspective Planning Partners and past president of Women United. “When you hear about the needs that children in our community are facing, especially in the area of mental health, how can you not raise your hand and say, ‘I want to help be the answer to that!’”

United Way hopes to gather enough support for ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. over the next several years to expand to a fourth school in the future.

About United Way of Lincoln

Celebrating 100 years of being there, United Way brings the entire community together to create long-term lasting change. By mobilizing the caring power of the Lincoln and Lancaster County community, United Way improves the lives of every resident. Ultimately, we envision a community where all residents have the opportunity to thrive.

About Lincoln Community Learning Centers

Lincoln Community Learning Centers provide a fun, educational delivery system that uses neighborhood schools as the central gathering place for students, families and neighborhoods. CLCs support 29 schools in the development and implementation of high quality extended learning opportunities, weekend and summer enrichment programs and other supportive services for children, youth, families, and neighborhood residents.

“Clinton Elementary is fortunate to have the opportunity to be included in United Way’s ENGAGE.EMPOWER.GRADUATE. initiative. This partnership will benefit our scholars and provide additional opportunities for learning.”

Baseball for Special Needs youth from 5 to 17 years of age

• Six games starting June 3rd

• Games at 9:30 Saturday mornings

• Shirts, Hats and Equipment provided

• Buddy assistance provided for each player

• One game played with the Salt Dog players

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MAY 18, 2023

Community Service Volunteers ages 12 & up are needed as Buddies to assist our players

Brought to you by the Optimist Clubs of Lincoln

For more information go to: http://www.jrsaltdogs.com/divisions/homers-heroes/ or phone Jeanne Cuda at (402) 430-7394.

20 23 20 23 KFRX MAYOR’S RUN KFRX MAYOR’S RUN

Presented by Sandhills Global

SATURDAY MAY 6, 2023

Register at lincolnrun.org or talk to your P.E.Teacher

Runners are automatically entered to win a variety of prizes such as bicycles from the Trek Bikes, running shoes from the Lincoln Running Co., and more.

This year the Lincoln Track Club, KFRX, and Sandhills Global team up to support Teammates of Lincoln by contributing $1 of each entry to this local charity.

YOU BELONG IN COMMUNITY.

YOU BELONG. JOIN US.

No tryouts! No bench! Join the community having the most fun on mountain bikes! Students entering grades 6-12 in the fall are welcome. No experience necessary. Preseason starts April 1st. Weekly team practices start July 1st.

Lancaster Composite is a part of the Nebraska Interscholastyic Cycling League, a state-wide youth development program aimed at building strong minds, bodies, character and communities throughout Nebraska.

2023

KIDS’ GRAND PRIX SCHEDULE

SPRING FORWARD RUN

Saturday, March 25

MAYOR’S RUN

Saturday, May 6

HAVELOCK RUN

Saturday, June 3

LINCOLN MILE

Sunday, July 9

HOLIDAY RUN

Sunday, December 3

REGISTER AT lincolnrun.org

The Lincoln Track Club Kids’ Grand Prix events are only $9 and available to kids sixth grade and under.

BE A GRAND SLAMMER!

Complete any four Kids’ Grand Prix events in 2023 and receive a personalized plaque at the end of the season from the Lincoln Track Club

Pepsi is the Official Beverage Supplier

MOUNTAIN BIKETEAM

East High School, 70th & A Streets

LPS staff, parents, students, family, friends, service organizations, PTOs, PTAs, school clubs, student groups, business partners, CLC collaborators, churches, TeamMate mentors, and volunteers

To provide funding for the Food Bank’s BackPack and School Food Market programs

Annual Extra Mile Walk, sponsored by the Food Bank of Lincoln and Lincoln Public

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2023 Inspire winners

LPS Students, Educators & Staff Awardees

Everett Elementary

Adams Elementary

Ameleah Johnson, 5th Grade

Jenny Williamson, Special Education Teacher

Arnold Elementary

Sophia Weiner, 5th Grade

Emily Mujica, Kindergarten Teacher

Arts & Humanities Focus Program

Sofya White, Senior

Michelle Leidholt, Focus Program Instructor

Bay High Focus Program

Ethan Gerbeling, Senior

Michelle Leidholt, Focus Program Instructor

Beattie Elementary

Omar Khan, 5th Grade

Maile Mekelburg, Interventionist

Belmont Elementary

Murtaja Al Labban, 5th Grade

Kim Mumford, Kitchen Manager

Brownell Elementary

Ella Evans, 5th Grade

Kayla Hicks, Resource

Bryan Community School

Azaira Rush, Senior

Susie Howard, eLearning Teacher

Calvert Elementary

Sydney Scotland, 5th Grade

Lauren Theis, 5th Grade Teacher

Campbell Elementary

Vitalina Misechko, 5th Grade

Hayley Majorins, Kindergarten Teacher

Cavett Elementary

Easton McCarville, 5th Grade

Judit Guderjan, SEM

Clinton Elementary 4th Grade Student

Toyin Alabi-Kottich, Paraeducator

Culler Middle School

Ty Grant, 8th Grade

Terri Vensky, 8th Grade English

Dawes Middle School

Jayla Moton, 8th Grade

Jessic Auffert, Special Education

Donald D. Sherrill Education Center

Gerico Smith, 5th Grade

Sarah Bretschneider, Teacher

Eastridge Elementary

Thu Nguyen, 5th Grade

Meghan Schmidt, 2nd Grade Teacher

Elliott Elementary

Zed Mock, 5th Grade

Kelsi Reiners, 1st Grade Teacher

Hsa Gay Htoo, 5th Grade

Kylee Doremus, Early Childhood Educator

Fredstrom Elementary

Zac Pitstick, 5th Grade

Stacey Heiser, Kindergarten Teacher

Goodrich Middle School

Gabriel Covarrubias, 8th Grade

Jordan Vargas, Student Support Technician

Hartley Elementary

Andre Rodriguez, 5th Grade

Alexa Burmeister, 2nd Grade Team Lead

Hill Elementary

Braxton Genthe, 5th Grade

Kerstin Buckley, School Nurse & Mike Reed, Assistant Custodial Supervisor

Holmes Elementary

Kami Hines, 5th Grade

Kristen Noble, Interventionist

Humann Elementary

Rebecca Watson, 5th Grade

Jill Gable, 2nd Grade Teacher

Huntington Elementary

Leni Tobiason, 5th Grade

Annette Kurth, Intervention Paraeducator

Irving Middle School

Nazlein Kero, 8th Grade

Trey Ottley, 7th Grade Social Studies

Kahoa Elementary

Jessica Vieyra, 5th Grade

Eric Vacek, PE Teacher

Kloefkorn Elementary School

Sethmi Fernando, 5th Grade

Jodi Jones, 1st Grade Teacher

Kooser Elementary

Anna Sindlar, 5th Grade

Emily Wisch, ELL Teacher

Lakeview Elementary

Ayviona Sigowa, 5th Grade

Jaime Hoyle, 1st Grade Educator

Lefler Middle School

Rihanna Clark, 8th Grade

Jen Lyons, SE Life Skills Teacher

Lincoln East High School

Kia Reyes, Senior

Emily Matthews, Social Studies Teacher

Lincoln High School

Landon Kruse, Senior

Will West, French & Links Live Teacher

Lincoln North Star High School

Carson Parde & Joes LadoAndrea, Seniors

Kennedy Nelson, ELL Team Leader

Lincoln Northeast High School

Aniyha Satchell, Senior

Cecillia Burda & Emmary Lunberry, SE Teachers

Lincoln Northwest High School

Brylin Thomas, Sophomore Evans Francis, Behavioral Interventionist

Lincoln Southeast High School

Will Jesske, Senior Curtis Craig, Campus Supervisor

Lincoln Southwest High School

Haider Saeed, Senior

Mikayla Border, School Social Worker

Lux Middle School

Avery Nordhues, 8th Grade

Shelby Swartz, 8th Grade Health Teacher

Maxey Elementary

Elsie Spilker, 5th Grade

Sydney Meister, Speech Language Pathologist

McPhee Elementary

Kimberly Donis-Osorio, 5th Grade

Jenni Torres-Perez, School Community Coordinator

Meadow Lane Elementary

Antonio Person, 5th Grade

Vanessa Welsh, Interventionist

Mickle Middle School

Alexi Eberly, 8th Grade

Doreen Ainslie, 7th Grade Social Studies

Moore Middle School

Ben Brown, 8th Grade

Hannah Lambert, Vocal Music Teacher

Morley Elementary

Madilyn Koehler, 5th Grade

Alyson Dickinson, Para/Assistant Principal

Norwood Park Elementary

Itzel Mendoza Ramirez, 5th Grade

Tessa Daugherty, 2nd Grade Teacher

Nuernberger Education Center

8th Grade Student

Christi Brugh, Health Tech

Park Middle School

Joseph Letyaev, 8th Grade

Molly Baird, 7th Grade Science

Pershing Elementary

Dania Escutia-Tenorio, 5th Grade

Deidre Bergman, 4th Grade Teacher

Pound Middle School

Malcom Thornock, 8th Grade

Chloe Reinwald, Spanish Teacher & Athletic Director

To view all the nominations visit FoundationforLPS.org/inspireawards

Prescott Elementary

Shining Star, 5th Grade

Rachel Frank, Kindergarten Teacher

Pyrtle Elementary

Emma Rinne, 5th Grade

April Dundy, School Nurse

Randolph Elementary

Jorge Herrera Soto, 5th Grade

Lana Bolles, Instructional Coach

Riley Elementary

Ashley Aguilar Muniz, 5th Grade

Rita Nightingale, Assistant Custodial Supervisor

Robinson Elementary

Stella Fullerton, 5th Grade

Kenzie Wright, Computer Science & Librarian

Roper Elementary

Zoey Swetson, 5th Grade

Julie Ruppelt, Music Teacher

Rousseau Elementary

Tyson Connelly, 5th Grade

Deb Saunders, Paraeducator

Saratoga Elementary

McCartney Smidt, 5th Grade

Megan Beacom, 2nd Grade Teacher

Schoo Middle School

Kendyll Jackson, 8th Grade

Bre Jones, 7th Grade Science Teacher

Science Focus Program

Alec Robbins, Senior

Michelle Leidholt, Focus Program Instructor

Scott Middle School

Max Kline, 8th Grade

Alicia Davis, Math Teacher

Sheridan Elementary

Violet Griffin, 5th Grade

Taylor Cole, 3rd Grade General Education

The Career Academy

Naing Naing, Senior Stephanie Howell, Social Studies Teacher

West Lincoln Elementary

Grayson Flesner, 5th Grade

Tracy Wright, 2nd Grade Teacher

Wysong Elementary

Noah Hiestand, 5th Grade

Joe Vrbicky, 3rd Grade Teacher

Yankee Hill Education Program

Juan Murillo, Senior Sharlene Lowery & Paula Eubanks, Paraprofessionals

Zeman Elementary

A’Lauric Dennard, 5th Grade

Becky Boellstorff, Speech Language Pathologist

Before the Sword by

Grace Lin

Before the Sword by Grace Lin. Like Lin’s hugely successful Where the Mountain Meets the Moon trilogy, Before the Sword portrays Mulan, a young person who defies odds as she embarks on a life-changing quest. Based on legends about Mulan Hua from master storyteller Grace Lin, it sets the stage for the Disney story while lending authentic details from other Chinese myths. Characters like the Jade Rabbit, Lu Ting-Pin, and Daji are explored further in an author’s note at the end of the book, which also includes an extensive list of resources that inspired Lin.

Healer of the Water Monster

by Brian Young

Healer of the Water Monster by Brian Young is a book that focuses on Native American culture in Arizona. The book showcases how mankind has affected the earth and nature. In the story, Pond summons the main character Nathan in order to save his life. He has been poisoned by mankind’s non-natural chemicals. Nathan has to travel to the 4th world to attempt to get help from Mother Pond, the overseer of all water. The book takes us through the buildup of learning the songs and culture necessary to gain help in the 4th world. Many Native American cultural aspects are presented in this novel. In addition to trying to save Pond in Arizona, Nathan also is dealing with the difficulty of his parent’s divorce, as well as an uncle who is an alcoholic. The book does a nice job of portraying how divorce and substance abuse can not only affect a young person but also how they can help both situations. The book is an overall entertaining read, and the storyline is interesting and unique.

The Lemon Tree

by Sandy Tolan

The conflict in the Middle East can be abstract and hard to understand for our young people. Sandy Tolan has created a story that describes the end of World War II and the relocation of Jewish settlers by telling us about a house. Specifically, a house with a lemon tree in the courtyard. The story is quite personal, and readers will be empathetic to both sides of the story. What an amazing way to introduce a long and complex story.

Morley celebrates Nebraska statehood

The Meadowlarks hosted Gov. Jim Pillen on March 1. The school greeted him with a necklace adorned with a cutout of Nebraska before he observed reading in a second-grade classroom.

“This is a big deal. This is the governor,” Morley fourth-grade student Maverik said.

“Students and staff were honored the Governor visited Morley to celebrate Nebraska's Birthday,” Principal Brandi Hennerberg. “We were also excited that he could see us teaching and learning.”

The Governor later went to the gym to interact with Morley’s fourth-grade students. They serenaded him with “Beautiful Nebraska” before he gave him a brief state history lesson. The students also had the opportunity to ask Gov. Pillen a few questions. The governor shared his favorite things about the state, like its people and land. Fourth-grade students across the state learn about Nebraska's history, so the visit was timely.

“I probably knew about 10%, but now I think I know about 99% because my teacher has taught a lot,” Morley fourth-grade student Avery added.

After the Q & A session, the fourth-grade students sang Happy Birthday to honor Nebraska’s statehood before the governor left.

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Hands-on learning experiences for K-8th grade students

Variety of STEAM-infused topics

Half-day and full-day camps

Before Care and Lunch Care available at select locations

Scholarships available

Older stuents can volunteer to be Camp Assistants

What Other Parents and Camp Assistants Are Saying . . .

2023 CAMP WEEKS

June 5–9

June 12–16

June 19–23

June 26–30

Bright Lights was a fun experience for me. I learned a lot about leadership and being a role model for younger people.

July 10–14 BrightLights.org

This

Six secrets to help end the school year strong

By Michelle Welch, RD, LMNT, LPS District Wellness

The school year is wrapping up and summer is on its way. Here are some tips to help your kids finish well and plan for summer:

Keep bedtime locked in place. As those days get longer, it’s tempting to let bedtime drift later, leading to epic morning struggles and sleepy kids in class. Work with the adults in your household to hold the line at bedtime until summer break. It matters.

Put devices to rest before bedtime. This parenting gig is tough. Sometimes the toughest part of it is managing the beckoning lure of technology. If your household has fallen out of the routine of parent-controlled devices at bedtime, now is the time to bring it back, or start it, period. As a side note, some Wi-Fi providers offer a device-specific toggle switch that can shut down Wi-Fi to gaming systems, phones, or computers without impacting the rest of the home’s devices. Especially as you move toward summer, this ability may be the best tool you’ve ever had. You may toggle it on and off from your phone as the subscribing adult with proof of required activity completion. It can help get kids outside and playing instead of sitting inside gaming or scrolling all day.

Obey your thirst. As kids enjoy more outdoor time, they need more water. Ensure that they bring a water bottle to school for better access to hydration during the day. Keep the habit going of them drinking water throughout the day when home.

Help them start the day with breakfast. At home or school, kids need fuel to do their best. Pay attention to breakfast choices at home and do what you can to include protein for a breakfast that sticks with them. A sandwich or slice of leftover pizza can work just as well, or sometimes better, than traditional breakfast options. Talk through with them what foods stick with them the best to help them avoid the distraction of rumbly tummies.

Build a solid summer routine. Kids thrive with structure, even when it includes built-in free-play times. Look carefully at what summer daycares, camps and other childcare activities offer to keep your kids from suffering the summer learning slump. Consider making the library a weekly stop to ensure kids are excited for reading “down time.”

Prioritize both physical and mental wellness. Schools have noticed across our population that many kids have become less physically fit and suffered some social-emotional growth delay during the pandemic. Invest time in catching up with your student this summer. Work with them to choose activities that will build skills physically and mentally. Consider summer fun activities which may help your kids break out of the “home alone” habits. Even some volunteering can make an amazing difference in your kids' health and communication skills. The time it takes to be their taxi is worth the investment in their future.

Here's wishing you and your family a strong finish to the school year!

Lunch / Beattie Elementar y

MONDAY

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April Secondary Lunch

Chicken & Vegetable Dumplings with Teriyaki Sauce

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Stuffed Crust Cheese Pizza

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Green Beans

Crinkle Fries

Baby Carrots

Steamed Broccoli

Steamed Mixed Vegetables

Apple Slices Diced Pears Applesauce Cup

Nacho Grande Meat with

Cheese Sauce & Tor tilla

Rounds

Stuffed Crust Turkey

Pepperoni Pizza

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a

Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Bean Dip with

Cheese Stick

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Shredded Lettuce & Diced

Tomatoes

Seasoned Black Beans

Baked Potato

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots

Orange Wedges

Pineapple Tidbits

Nacho Cheese Doritos

Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

17

Chicken & Cheese Rolled

Taco

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Veggie Pizza

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Crinkle Fries

Baby Carrots

Apple Slices

Diced Pears

Hamburger Bun

Dinner Roll

18

Sausage Pizza Taco Meat on Flour Tor tilla with

Shredded American Cheese

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza Vegan Taco Meat in Tor tilla

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Shredded Lettuce & Diced

Tomatoes

Refried Beans Whipped Potatoes

Poultr y Grav y

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots Orange Wedges

Pineapple Cup

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Fish Sticks

Chef Salad

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

BBQ Grilled Chicken

Sandwich

Chicken Wings

Breaded Ravioli with

Marinara Sauce

Teriyaki Burger on a Bun

Cheese Chef Salad Domino's Cheese Pizza

Chik'n Patty on a Bun

Romaine Tossed Salad

Baked Beans Baked Potato

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots Green Beans Banana Applesauce Hamburger Bun

Bread stick Dinner Roll Biscuit

Corn Puppies

BBQ Beef Rib Sandwich

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino s Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Black Bean Burger

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino s Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Cooked Carrots

Seasoned Fries

Red Grapes

Applesauce Hamburger Bun

Dinner Roll

12

Salisbur y Steak Breaded Pork Patty on a Bun

Chef Salad Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Veggie Pizza

Vegetarian Burger

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Whipped Potatoes

Beef Grav y

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots

Green Beans

Peas

Mandarin Oranges

Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

13

BBQ Chicken

Hamburger Pizza

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a

Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino s Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino s Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Corn

Scalloped Potatoes

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots

Blueberries with Whipped

Topping

Mandarin Oranges

Dinner Roll Hamburger Bun

19

Chicken Tenders

Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Steamed Broccoli

Tomato Soup

Seasoned Fries

Red Grapes Applesauce Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

20

Countr y Beef Patty on a Bun

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino s Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Breaded Mozzarella Cheese

Sticks with

Marinara Sauce

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Green Beans

Potato Rounds

Baby Carrots

Blueberries with Whipped

Topping

Mandarin Oranges

Hamburger Bun Dinner Roll

No School

14

Breaded Chicken Nuggets

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a

Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino s Sausage Pizza

Mac & Cheese

Chef Salad

Cheese

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Peas

Potato Rounds

Baby Carrots

Mixed Fruit

Assor ted Fruit

Biscuit

Hamburger Bun

21

Meat Sauce on Rotini

Noodles

Mexi Pizza

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Rotini with Vegetarian

Meatballs & Marinara Sauce

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Baby Carrots

Shoestring Fries

Mixed Fruit

Assor ted Fruit

Rotini Noodles

Garlic Bread

Chicken & Vegetable

Dumplings with Teriyaki

Sauce

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a

Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino s Sausage Pizza

Stuffed Crust Cheese Pizza

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Green Beans

Crinkle Fries

Baby Carrots

Apple Slices

Diced Pears

Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

Flour Tor tilla

Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

Hamburger Bun 24

25

French Toast Sticks with

Sausage Links

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a

Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

French Toast Sticks with

Bean & Cheese Burrito

Cheese Sticks

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino's Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Baby Carrots Hash Brown Potatoes

Shoestring Fries Orange Wedges

Pineapple Cup

Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

26

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Fish Sticks

Chef Salad

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino's Sausage Pizza

Breaded Ravioli with Marinara Sauce

Teriyaki Burger on a Bun

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino s Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Baked Beans

Baked Potato

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots

Red Grapes

Applesauce Hamburger Bun

Bread stick

Dinner Roll

Salisbur y Steak

Breaded Pork Patty on a Bun

Chef Salad

Breaded Chicken Patty on a Bun

Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun

Cheeseburger on a Bun

Domino's Pepperoni Pizza

Domino s Sausage Pizza

Veggie Pizza

Vegetarian Burger

Cheese Chef Salad

Domino s Cheese Pizza

Romaine Tossed Salad

Whipped Potatoes

Beef Grav y

Shoestring Fries

Baby Carrots

Mandarin Oranges

Assor ted Fruit

Dinner Roll

Hamburger Bun

28 No School

First annual African Diaspora Symposium builds connections within the Northeast community

Students at Northeast High School worked with student advocate Kwame Gyamfi on a special event to help connect the Lincoln community through the African Diaspora Symposium.

The African diaspora refers to “the voluntary and involuntary movement of Africans and their descendants to various parts of the world.” The school hosted its first-ever African Diaspora Symposium to help people better understand the connections between African Americans and Africa.

“It is an opportunity for students at Northeast High School to showcase their diversity in talent,” Gyamfi said.

The event featured several vendors, community organizations and various artist booths throughout the building. It was also a good opportunity for local small businesses to increase their visibility like Northeast High School junior Tawfig. Tawfig was one of the business owners and used the symposium to help bring awareness to his clothing line of hoodies.

“I think it’s a great opportunity just to get some exposure from the community and let my name be known by other people,” Tawfig said.

Attendees could enjoy several live performances throughout the afternoon, including traditional African dancing, student poets, Northeast’s drum circle and step teams. Northeast ninth-grade student, Corinn, was one of the feature poets.

“I feel events like this are important because it helps spread awareness that there is a community here and there are people here to support you and listen to you,” she said.

Organizers and participants hope the symposium fosters community and greater cultural awareness.

“I think it’s all about representation and being with other people like you. I think being able to see others like yourself just helps us embrace our culture,” Tawfig said.

“I hope they take away that there is a place where you can go to learn more about culture or learn more about your culture,” Corinn added.