LPS students rely on research talents to excel at state science competition < Updated

Eight Science Focus Program students received sterling recognition for their research talents this spring at a state science competition.
 
Science Focus Program (SFP) seniors Avery J, Cara, Elise and Elena and juniors Avery E, Washburn, Leyton and Judie took part in the Nebraska Junior Academy of Sciences (NJAS) State Science Fair. They spoke with judges about their in-depth investigations at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln East Campus Union. Their projects ranged from polymer identification of microplastics along Salt Creek to the impact of air quality on public health in Nebraska metropolitan areas.
 
Avery E and Elena both said it was rewarding to conduct research that followed the entire scientific process timeline. Avery explored how much carbon different tree species were storing in the Oak Hills neighborhood of Lincoln. Elena examined the long-term effects of a pesticide called rotenone on macroinvertebrate populations in Wagon Train Lake, which is located east of Hickman, Neb.
 
“The thing I enjoyed most about my research project was the real-world application and the importance behind my results,” Avery said. “I really enjoyed looking at my results and being able to determine what would help our environment in the long run. Storing carbon in organic matter like trees is very important to combating climate change, so being a part of a possible solution was really inspiring for me.”

“I would typically identify 300 to 400 macroinvertebrates at each lake, which took several hours, but looking back at all the hard work I put in, it was worth it,” Elena said. “When presenting at NJAS, seeing all your hard work come together was very fulfilling and makes you feel proud of yourself.”

 
SFP Administrator Lindsey Roy said those types of projects are a major piece of the focus program’s college preparation efforts. Students hop into the driver’s seat by developing ideas, gathering their own data and partnering with scientists for advice and consultation. SFP teachers guide the process and help with the analysis, but students are at the helm of each investigation.
 
“This gives students great opportunities to develop the skills of undergrad- and grad-level research throughout their high school experience,” Roy said.
 
SFP students learn about research fundamentals in their first two years at the focus program. They then delve into yearlong independent projects that are designed to build critical thinking and scientific inquiry talents. They write papers about their results, create professional-level posters and gain confidence by presenting their findings to others.

 
Avery’s project was one example of the comprehensive nature of each student’s work. She picked eight tree species to study – pine, oak, walnut, elm, maple, locust, poplar and ash – to see if Oak Hills residents had been planting the best carbon-storing varieties. She took physical measurements of 12 trees of each species before plugging those values into a series of biomass equations. The formulas helped her determine the average amount of carbon each tree species could contain.
 
Avery discovered that nearly 125 maple trees had been planted in the Oak Hills neighborhood. Elm was the only other species that had more than 25 trees take root in the area. However, maple ranked sixth on the list of average carbon-storing capacity. The most effective tree was poplar, which was one of the least-planted varieties in the area.
 
“I found a clear disconnect in the results, as the trees that were the most abundant did not store much carbon, and the ones that did store a lot of carbon were not as present in our urban landscape,” Avery said.
 
Avery said she was fascinated by both the outcome and the overall data collection work. She began working on the topic in August and wrapped up her research in February.
 
“Through this process, not only did I learn a lot about trees and carbon, but I also learned a lot about graphs, scientific processes and what it really takes for a project to come together in a paper,” Avery said. “All of the different aspects and pieces that go into the paper itself were interesting to see, and I was able to learn how to conduct a field study that proved or disproved a hypothesis.”

 
Elena also incorporated a meticulous data gathering system. She learned that Wagon Train Lake had been treated with rotenone in 2022 to remove invasive fish. She was curious how those waters compared with Stagecoach Lake, which had not been treated with the pesticide. Stagecoach is located south of Hickman.
 
After collecting species like snails, mayflies and beetles with kick-net sampling, Elena analyzed the biodiversity of both lakes with multiple measurement tools. She found that pollution-sensitive species had begun to recover in Wagon Train, but the overall ecosystem was less diverse than Stagecoach. This meant Wagon Train had not yet fully recovered from the pesticide application.
 
Elena said it was fun to see her efforts produce academic fruit in the form of a 76-page paper. She said her SFP background would be a major asset for her in her scientific career.
 
“I want to be a wildlife biologist and potentially become a professor one day,” Elena said. “I believe all the research skills, like how to write a research paper, read peer-reviewed articles, present research, come up with a question, etc., will all benefit me and help me feel more confident in conducting research in the future. Whether through research or education, I want to make an impact, and this is a step toward that goal.”
 
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Posted on May 07, 2026

Buffaloes bring home safety knowledge through fun bicycle, pedestrian lessons < Updated

Brownell Elementary School students discovered how to make streets and sidewalks safer for everyone during a special afternoon of activities this spring.
 
Hundreds of Buffaloes participated in Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Day lessons inside and outside the school building. Students from all grades learned how to safely navigate crosswalks, wear bicycle helmets, approach large vehicles and ride electric bikes. Representatives from Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD), Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU), Safe Kids Lincoln-Lancaster County (SKLLC), Lincoln Parks and Recreation and Black Hills Energy partnered with Brownell on the project.
 
Fifth graders Quinci and Leah felt the four safety lessons were filled with valuable information. They said the stations would help them feel more secure while walking or biking near the school building.
 
“I learned that you have to look both ways,” Quinci said. “You have to be aware of where you’re going.”
 
“I think it can help you when there are cars in the street, because then you can stay safe,” Leah said.

 
Brian Baker said he was encouraged by similar responses he heard from students throughout the day. Baker, a public health educator at LLCHD, spoke about the importance of wearing a helmet while bicycling or rollerblading. He used a mannequin head to show the Buffaloes how to properly fit on a helmet, and he emphasized how helmets protect people from serious injury.
 
Baker said he was pleased with the attention everyone displayed during his lessons. He said that reflected well on the school as a whole.
 
“It’s been wonderful,” Baker said. “If you help them understand why it’s important to be safe and why it’s important to wear a helmet, then they’re all ears. They truly grasp the reasons behind the things they’re hearing today.”
 
Brownell Principal Nikosia Kruse was also happy with the day’s outcome. She felt students had been considerate and thoughtful while they listened to each presentation. Groups of kindergarteners and second graders kicked off the event, and first and third graders followed suit soon after. The day ended with classes of fourth and fifth graders rotating through the activities.
 
“The kids have done a great job today,” Kruse said as she walked to Baker’s station. “I’ve been really happy with the way they’ve been paying attention.”

Kruse said LTU selected Brownell as this year’s recipient of a bike and pedestrian safety grant. Bethany Neighborhood Association President Kyle McLaughlin advocated for the grant after two accidents in the neighborhood happened within a six-month span. 
 
Kruse met with Brownell team members Ben Esters, Emily Pokorny and Trey Meyer once the grant was approved. They coordinated events with the community partners and planned participation times for each grade level. It took approximately 50 minutes for students to complete all four stations with the assistance of their library, computer, music and physical education teachers.

 
Quinci and Leah shared their excitement after participating in a large vehicle safety demonstration. Black Hills Energy employees parked two cars on Aylesworth Avenue and let the Buffaloes climb into the front seat. They realized how hard it was for truck drivers to see anyone who might be walking or biking in the road by the vehicles. This gave them a better understanding of why it is so critical to remain visible at all times.
 
“I especially liked being in the truck and seeing everything,” Quinci said. “It just helped me to know what to do when I’m walking. If I’m walking, I know I have to look both ways and look where I’m going.”
 
Rachel Redepenning of LLCHD and Alex Duryea of Lincoln Parks and Recreation gave students key information about e-bikes on the other side of the school building. They used a series of traffic cones to illustrate the distance it would take for riders to stop their bikes or e-bikes on a street or sidewalk. The Buffaloes learned it would take longer for e-bikes to stop because the batteries make the vehicles heavier.
 
Redepenning and Duryea also asked older students to share bicycle safety tips they had learned. One group of fourth and fifth graders suggested checking the tire pressure, making sure the bicycle seat was secure and adjusting handlebars before riding.
 
“This is really good!” Redepenning said. “I’m impressed by this.”

 
Baker said events like Brownell’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Day would make a difference in overall public safety. Lincoln Public Schools sponsors multiple activities throughout the year at elementary schools to ensure everyone has the safety knowledge they need.
 
“It’s important that we reach them with this information at this stage of their lives,” Baker said. “We want them to stay safe. That’s why we’re all here helping out with this.”
 
Discover more about our goals to connect with community partners through the 2024-29 LPS Strategic Plan.
 
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Posted on May 06, 2026

Lytle honored for leadership talents with school nurse administrator award < Updated

Nebraska school nurses paid tribute to Megan Lytle this spring for her talented and trustworthy work at Lincoln Public Schools.
 
Lytle received the Nebraska School Nurses Association (NSNA) School Nurse Administrator of the Year Award. She earned the statewide honor for her expertise in health services management, health education, professional learning and community involvement. She is responsible for many administrative and leadership duties as a health services coordinator at LPS.
 
Lytle said her career is rewarding because of the opportunities to help others.
 
“There is a lot to enjoy!” Lytle said. “I enjoy mentoring other school nurses and health services staff to grow their practice, I love working with teams to problem solve, and I love working with our district teams to improve existing systems or build better systems to serve the students of LPS.”

 
LPS Director of Health Services Wendy Rau said Lytle has become a trusted voice for school nurses both in Nebraska and beyond. She works with more than 60 LPS school nurses on everything from performance appraisals to Heart Safe School initiatives, and she shapes district standards through the development of high-impact courses.
 
“Megan’s commitment to lifelong learning and professional service establishes her as a pre-eminent voice in school nursing, not just within Nebraska, but on a national stage,” Rau said. “She does not merely participate in the professional community, she actively shapes its future through leadership and the dissemination of specialized knowledge.”
 
Sara Stoner works with Lytle as a fellow health services coordinator at LPS. She said Lytle is an exceptional school nurse administrator because of her student-centered focus and visionary leadership style.
 
“She is a powerhouse advocate for the profession at both the state and national levels, yet she remains deeply rooted in her love for Lincoln and LPS,” Stoner said. “Megan’s approach is uniquely balanced. She utilizes a data-driven, quality-improvement lens to ensure excellence, while simultaneously prioritizing staff wellness and mentorship.”
 
Lytle began her nursing career intending to work in pediatrics. She initially thought a hospital was the only place that was possible, but a trip to a local school changed her life’s pathway.
 
“During nursing school clinicals, I was given the opportunity to work in a school, and as soon as I was in the building, I just knew that this was a place that I wanted to be,” Lytle said. “I loved being able to support students to be successful at school.”

 
Lytle joined LPS in 2015 and made an immediate impact at Huntington Elementary School. She earned the Nebraska School Nurse of the Year Award in 2020 for her work with students, teachers and families. She said her time at Huntington strengthened her nursing and leadership skills.
 
“As one of the only health care professionals in the building, you can offer valuable insight and health education to students, families and school staff,” Lytle said. “As the school nurse, you have lots of opportunities for communication, and sometimes that can come with conflict resolution or reaching mutual understanding. You work with many people as part of a multidisciplinary approach and develop a better understanding of everyone’s roles and viewpoints.”
 
One of Lytle’s main responsibilities is staff oversight and education. She has guided smooth rollouts of training materials, introduced digital services and led dozens of professional learning sessions.
 
“Megan serves as a primary architect of professional growth within the district, acting as a vital bridge between clinical health and holistic student wellness,” Rau said. “Her influence extends far beyond her immediate role, as she translates complex medical and psychological concepts into actionable strategies for school nurses and health staff alike.”

 
Those achievements have overflowed beyond Lincoln, like sharing professional expertise with other school nurses. NSNA Past President Jessica Truman said she has enjoyed working with Lytle on many statewide projects.
 
“During the time Megan and I have served together on the NSNA Board of Directors, I have had the opportunity to witness her strong work ethic, thoughtful decision-making and passion for advancing the profession of school nursing,” Truman said. “While many people are comfortable continuing processes simply because ‘that’s how they’ve always been done,’ Megan is not afraid to question current practices and advocate for improvements that better support school nurses and students alike.”
 
Lytle often presents at National Association of School Nurses (NASN) conferences, and those networking opportunities have paid dividends back home. She has returned with many ideas for improving health services for Nebraska students.
 
“Through her dual role as a high-level administrator and a national presenter, Megan ensures that the latest evidence-based practices flow directly from national conferences back to local school health offices,” Rau said. “Her service to professional organizations ensures that Nebraska’s school nurses have a seat at the table in national health policy and educational reform conversations.”
 
“Megan is highly organized, forward-thinking and able to see the bigger picture while still paying attention to important details,” Truman said. “Megan has been a wonderful thought partner for me whether we are discussing items for NSNA or ways to improve health services processes within our school districts.”
 
Stoner said Lytle’s caring personality has instilled both trust and confidence throughout the LPS school nurse community.
 
“What I enjoy most about working with her each day is her genuine investment in professional growth,” Stoner said. “She ensures that all staff are thoroughly prepared for any task through dedicated education, and her infectious positive attitude turns even the most challenging days into opportunities for progress.”
 
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Posted on May 06, 2026

LPS seniors share success stories from time with Lincoln TeamMates

More than 100 Lincoln TeamMates will mark their graduation this school year, and they will have a medal to prove it when they walk down the aisle to receive their diplomas. Thirty-four of them will also have a financial boost from one or more TeamMates scholarships.

“When I started at TeamMates, I had no idea how much it would mean to place those medals around students’ necks,” Lincoln TeamMates Coordinator Jim Bennett said. “The looks of pride and surprise on mentees’ faces – and their mentors too – is something I look forward to every year.”

That pride, surprise and joy was on full display at the 2026 Lincoln TeamMates Graduation Celebration. Graduates rose to receive their medals before a crowd of 235 made up of students, mentors, families, donors and other TeamMates stakeholders. The morning event was held April 24 in the Red Cloud Room of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Willa Cather Dining Complex.

The celebration featured three student speakers. They were chosen based on their TeamMates experiences and the recommendation of their mentor.

“I wish we could hear every single student tell their story,” Bennett said.

Excerpts from the speeches of the students chosen give just a hint of their stories.

Kabeh is someone who “believes deeply in what is right and isn’t afraid to speak up,” said her mentor Madina. Kabeh shared what a mentor is.

“When I got a mentor in third grade, I had no idea that decision was going to change my life,” Kabeh said. “A mentor is not just someone you meet with. It’s someone who sees you, understands you, and supports you, even when things get hard.”

Ryn is “resilient, hilarious and deeply compassionate,” said his mentor Olivia. Ryn talked about the edge having a TeamMate has given him.

“We live in a weird, complicated and scary world, but I think I’m at an advantage because of my TeamMate,” Ryn said. “I’ve gotten to see how she’s made it through challenges that I’m going to face. I've learned to put care into my life, whether that’s care for myself, or people around me.”

Hannah gets credit for “making me a better counselor and mentor,” said her mentor Eileen. Hannah valued most the chance to be heard.

“I never had to pretend things were okay when they weren’t, and instead of trying to fix it or brush it off, she listened,” Hannah said. “She made it feel okay to not be okay. That’s my TeamMate – someone who stays when things are difficult. Someone who reminds you who you are when you forget.”

Posted on May 05, 2026

Excellent Endeavors: East senior Gisele writes turnaround story at school

East High School senior Gisele is creating an environment of excellence in her life by walking on a promising academic pathway.
 
Gisele has changed the direction of her future with a renewed sense of confidence and self-esteem over the past two years. The chapters of her uplifting life novel have included stronger connections with family and friends, increased classroom success and a clear vision of her upcoming scientific career.
 
Gisele said teachers, administrators, school counselors and friends have formed a backbone of support for her at East. She said their encouragement is what she will remember most about her time on campus.
 
“It’s definitely the people and the connections I’ve built here,” Gisele said. “It’s how eager everyone is to help you and be by your side and support you.”

 
Leandra London and Kristin Murphy have been key partners in that transformational journey. London is East’s assistant building coordinator and Murphy is Gisele’s school counselor. Both said they have felt overflowing joy from watching her become a role model for many people.
 
“Gisele is the epitome of a turnaround story,” London said. “When I think of where Gisele was, seeing how much she has grown in the time that I’ve been her administrator genuinely just makes me want to cry.”
 
“The ninth and tenth grade Gisele is completely different from the 11th and 12th grade Gisele, and that is something that you write about in an essay or a letter of recommendation,” Murphy said. “She truly learned what she could become throughout her time in high school. It’s amazing.”

 
Gisele grew up in Lincoln and encountered several obstacles during her elementary and middle school years. She began to lose confidence in herself because of those experiences, which caused her life to slowly spiral downwards.
 
The breakthrough moment came midway through her sophomore year. Gisele said she had struggled with feelings of inadequacy before then, but she began to understand that she was capable of anything she put her mind to. That realization vaulted her life skyward in both academic and social settings.
 
“Ever since I was little, people have told me that I’m passionate, creative and hardworking, but as I grew up, I kind of began to think that people were really telling me that I wasn’t smart,” Gisele said. “It was like, ‘Oh, she’s hardworking, but she’s not smart.’ I never really believed in myself. But then that light bulb switched on and it was like, ‘Yes, I am hardworking. I am smart. I can do this.’ It really was a turning point in my life to start to believe that.”

 
Gisele began to take full advantage of school resources throughout the building. She talked more with her teachers, visited with mentors like London and Murphy and sought out every opportunity to improve her grades. She ended that semester with A and B+ results in every class.
 
Those inspiring achievements continued in her junior and senior years. She took online classes and enrolled in summer school to catch up on credits for graduation, and she began to explore all of her postsecondary options. She is planning to continue her studies at Southeast Community College before majoring in zoology and wildlife conservation at Colorado State University. Her long-term goal is to earn her doctorate degree and become a university professor and lecturer.
 
“It feels really good,” Gisele said. “I feel more confident overall both in my abilities and just in general. I feel more trusted as well, which is a big thing for me.”
 
Gisele has also poured out her energy into the community. She volunteered at a local charitable organization for a class assignment this past year, and the experience went so well that they asked her to help customers at the front desk. She is currently working three jobs during the afternoons and evenings to save extra money for her collegiate goals.
 
“This girl is such a hard worker,” London said. “She wants to do well.”

 
Gisele is also spreading hope to others at school. She has been willing to share her history with students who may currently be in a position she once was in. She said it is important for her to lend a helping hand to others in need.
 
“I always try to speak out about my experiences to other people who might be struggling with the same things, because it is really hard for people to get out by themselves,” Gisele said. “I was honestly one of the lucky ones. I understand you can’t make anyone make those decisions, because they have to do it for themselves, but you can tell them that they need to do it. You need to make them realize that what they’re doing is not a good path to be on.”
 
Gisele said the environment of excellence she has forged at East will remain with her long after she receives her diploma this spring.
 
“I think that people’s pasts are something you really shouldn’t hide and you should be open about them, because they’re always lessons to learn from,” Gisele said. “I really believe that. It’s just part of life. You go through things and you grow and you become who you’re truly meant to be.”
 
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Posted on May 04, 2026

Famous author Sandra Cisneros inspires students during Arts and Humanities visit

A world-famous author helped local students learn how the worlds of arts and humanities share strong academic links this spring.
 
Sandra Cisneros spoke about her lifetime of creative achievements during a visit to the Arts and Humanities (A&H) Focus Program campus. She provided insights about the way she designs stories and poems to students, who read her best-selling novel “The House on Mango Street” beforehand. Cisneros also illustrated how art and humanities topics can work together to form powerful lessons for people.
 
A&H students Gracyn and Cadence said they were impressed by what they heard. Cisneros explained how she refines her literature by applying different life experiences to it. Gracyn, a junior at Standing Bear High School, and Cadence, a sophomore at East High School, said that gave them confidence to continue pursuing their writing and artistic goals.

 
“Being able to hear someone that has a similar story was really inspiring,” Gracyn said. “And it kind of reassured me that what I was doing was the right thing for me to do, even if there were some people that would call it, like, unrealistic. So, it just felt really reassuring.”

“I feel like just the way that she writes in her beliefs are kind of, they all speak to everyone at A&H,” Cadence said. “We all relate to them in some way.”
 
A&H teachers Maggie Elsener and Tara Moore said it was important for students to learn how all arts and humanities topics are intertwined. Sophomores and juniors read “The House on Mango Street” in its entirety this semester, while the other two grades explored story excerpts as part of their broader English curriculum. They then wrote vignettes, created bookmarks and made experimental videos and films about the storyline.

 
“We really want students to understand that the world is not a siloed experience,” Elsener said. “One subject affects another throughout human experience.”
 
“One of the greatest opportunities our students receive in focus programs is experiential learning,” Moore said. “Engaging with visiting writers, filmmakers and artists allows students to see the creative process firsthand and recognize that meaningful work is shaped by real experiences and intentional time devoted to the craft.”
 
Moore and Elsener said they were excited when they received word about Cisneros’ visit, which was made possible through a partnership between Lincoln Public Schools and the Lincoln-based Linked2Literacy non-profit program. Cisneros has written multiple novels, stories, poetry collections, picture books and personal essays that have been translated into 25 languages.
 
One of her most famous works is “The House on Mango Street,” which was first published in 1984. It has sold more than eight million copies and has recently been turned into an opera.

 
Cadence said Cisneros helped her become more aware of the similarities between penning stories and producing visual artworks. Writers transform texts with their pencils and keyboards many times before the final version is ready to publish. The same is true for artists, who often go through multiple attempts before displaying their work to the public.
 
“There was so much behind it that I didn’t understand before, because I was just looking at it as, ‘Oh, this is perfect writing’ and things like that,” Cadence said. “And so, it’s that art, like humans, isn’t perfect. There’s always going to be a stumble. There’s always going to be drafts, no matter how many drafts.”
 
Students also discovered how humanities subjects like history and culture can impact pieces of art. Cisneros based “The House on Mango Street” both on her own childhood experiences in Chicago and later stories from her Chicago students.
 
She relied on her personal history again when the opportunity arose to adapt the book into an opera. Her mother had borrowed opera records from the Chicago Public Library to play at home while she was growing up, and Cisneros remembered how much joy they brought to everyone listening.
 
“The arts are inextricably linked, as the arts are part of the humanities, and art is often created based on what is happening currently, what has happened in history, philosophy, literature, etc.,” Elsener said. “They are not separate entities and we emphasize this as part of our program.”
 
Gracyn said Cisneros gave her a valuable long-term perspective as well. She told students that life, like all forms of art, is a continual journey.
 
“At this point in my life, I feel like I kind of worry sometimes that I’m supposed to have it all figured out, you know?” Gracyn said. “But to be able to sit there and hear her talk about, ‘I’m 71 and I’m still figuring out who I want to be, and I’m not, like, the exact person I want to be, not the exact writer I want to be.’ That was, I don’t know, I’m doing this hand to my heart thing a lot, because it really just hit where I needed to hear it.”
 
Moore said those uplifting moments reinforced why arts and humanities lessons are so essential for students to explore.
 
“It was incredibly meaningful to watch students make authentic connections between her words, her creative process and their own lives,” Moore said. “There was a real sense of curiosity and wonder in the room as they engaged with her ideas and asked thoughtful questions. I know this is an experience that will stay with them.”
 
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Posted on May 04, 2026

Lexie channels creativity into future entrepreneurship at Bay High

Bay High Focus Program’s creative approach to education is helping Lexie brush up on all of her artistic talents at school.
 
The Lincoln Public Schools senior is blossoming into a multi-skilled entrepreneur through her experiences at Bay High. She has developed fast-action photography skills, fashioned an array of tattoo designs and sold multiple t-shirts with her own bleached-style images.
 
Lexie said she has enjoyed every minute of her time in Bay High’s building. She has used the focus program’s project-based learning model to build a strong resume that will help her future broadcasting, advertising and marketing dreams.
 
“If you have an interest in anything at all here, they can help out,” Lexie said. “There’s resources here and you can build a family, and they’ll give you connections for your future. So, it’s a really good stepping stone to your path.”

 
Bay High Focus Program Administrator Brenna Alonso has been impressed with Lexie’s work ethic and desire to learn. She said Lexie’s enthusiastic outlook on life has helped her expand her knowledge of subjects ranging from photojournalism to video production.
 
“Lexie’s skills have grown exponentially,” Alonso said. “She is willing to take risks and put herself out there when it comes to projects. She has fully embraced being a part of a focus program and taking part in the extra opportunities that are available.”
 
Bay High students learn about content creation and emerging digital technologies through a curriculum that blends student passions and technical skills. Juniors and seniors take multiple classes that concentrate on marketing, journalism and entrepreneurship subjects. They combine those academic disciplines with topics such as music, fashion and art throughout the school day.
 
Lexie, who attends morning classes at Southeast High School, said her first impression of Bay High was a winning one. She knew she wanted to pursue a wide range of artistic interests during her final two years of high school, and she was intrigued by Bay High’s assortment of interactive courses. Her older brother had previously attended the program, and he encouraged her to consider applying for a spot on campus.
 
That decision was rewarded soon after stepping through Bay High’s front doors.
 
“My first day here as a junior, I was obviously nervous, and it was a lot of people to talk to on the first day,” Lexie said. “But once I got to know everyone, it was like, I felt so in with everybody. I felt like friends with everybody on the first day. It’s like, I wasn’t excluded anywhere.”

 
That strong sense of community has given Lexie additional confidence to explore her passions. One afternoon, she sat at a table with friends, working on a new project that included video interviews. The uplifting conversations reassured everyone that they would succeed in their new tasks.
 
“Lexie is always a supporter of her peers and willing to dive into any challenge,” Alonso said.
 
Lexie has focused her attention on photography, tattoo design and t-shirt art this school year. She integrated pictures with her original tattoo designs for a senior passion project showcase in the first semester. She then jump-started a t-shirt business this winter that features intricate designs made with bleach. She has already sold several pieces of custom-made clothing and is looking to expand this spring.
 
Lexie said she has enjoyed the opportunity to embrace all of her hobbies at Bay High.
 
“I do like the blending of photography and art and how you can turn a photo of something into a painting or tattoo,” Lexie said. “And that’s kind of what I’m doing with the shirts I’m bleaching right now. And I think that’s something that I want to stick with for a while.”
 
Bay High teachers Brent Jarosz and Ethan Carlson have also made valuable contributions to Lexie’s career goals. They have offered advice on business-related topics, such as compiling spreadsheets and tracking inventory, and have praised her willingness to take risks and try innovative ideas.
 
Alonso said Lexie is joining a long list of students who have benefited from Bay High’s mentoring environment. The focus program’s ties to creative communities in both Lincoln and Omaha have helped many people build promising career starts.
 
“Lexie has really grown as a person, honing in on her ability to think through graphic design, videography and photography,” Alonso said. “She was unsure about what she wanted to pursue and now has a clear idea of what options she has at her disposal.”

 
Lexie said she has become more independent because of Bay High’s casual-yet-challenging format. She said it has provided a firm foundation for all of her blossoming prospects.
 
“With the stuff that we’re learning here at The Bay with the entrepreneur class, the marketing class, I’ve learned to be able to do all of that on my own,” Lexie said. “And in the future, these skills that we’re building here right now are probably the most important that I’ll have.”
 
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Posted on May 01, 2026

Nourishing Knowledge: East food service workers boost academic success with meals

East High School food service workers are fueling the futures of hundreds of Spartans one nutritious meal at a time.
 
A dozen East employees help students succeed in their classes with their food management and preparation talents. They assemble food items like meat, bread, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and desserts multiple hours each morning for everyone to enjoy. They are part of a 390-person districtwide team that serves nearly 35,000 daily meals at LPS buildings.
 
Susan Zander has a front-row seat to that hard work every day. Zander is East’s kitchen manager and oversees a group that produces a vast amount of food. She praised her staff as she placed tomatoes and onions into a new slicing machine. She then brought full containers of fresh vegetable pieces to a counter for employees to include in handmade sub sandwiches.
 
“They’re all such hardworking people,” Zander said. “They’re all on time and they all have the same goal. We want to support the students during their academic day. That’s the most important thing we do. We want to provide something that they want to eat and they’re looking forward to eating.”

 
The same amount of care happens across the school district each day. LPS Director of Nutrition Services Andrew Ashelford said food service workers directly influence the health, learning and overall well-being of students. They order food and supplies, schedule menus, maintain equipment, examine federal food guidelines and requirements, coordinate special dietary needs, review free and reduced meal applications, prepare business invoices and make meals with their culinary knowledge.
 
“Students who eat a well-balanced meal focus and perform better in class,” Ashelford said. “Nutrition staff also support emotional and social well-being by providing a consistent and welcoming cafeteria environment that allows students to feel safe and cared for. I am proud of the nutrition services staff at LPS for the work they put into feeding the students on a daily basis.”
 
LPS serves approximately 1.5 million breakfasts, 4.3 million lunches and 208,000 snacks each year. That process begins at the Nutrition Services Distribution Center, which features a warehouse of food products and materials. Workers then transport items to eight LPS central kitchens and dozens of smaller production kitchens. The school district plans meals based on historical data, current food dietary guidelines and product availability.
 
Employees like Ana Wood, Ramiza Mujkic and Terry Mylander take it from there. Mujkic, who is East’s head cook, has been with LPS for 12 years. She spent part of one morning working with containers full of carrots, corn and broccoli for students to eat. She said it is rewarding to know that the team’s many hours of work are well worth it.
 
“You see those kids from their first day of ninth grade to the day before they go to college, and you get to know them,” Mujkic said. “I feel really super being able to give them food that I know is going to help them. I love food and I love being in the kitchen, so this is a great place for me to be to help out.”

 
While Mujkic was working in the kitchen, Ana Wood staffed a spot by a large conveyor belt oven. She placed trays of breaded chicken pieces on the conveyor belt for a 13-minute cooking trip through the oven. After the pieces were ready, she took the trays to a counter where she created chicken sandwiches. She then individually wrapped each sandwich for students to pick up for lunch.
 
Wood said it is meaningful to watch students react with delight as they explore their menu choices. That day’s options included chicken sandwiches and tenders, salads, pears, cheeseburgers, corn, broccoli, carrots, Jello salad and supreme pizza. There were also more than 100 turkey breast sub sandwiches filled with lettuce, cheese, tomatoes and onions.
 
“I love to see the faces of the students coming through the line,” Wood said. “It’s a good feeling to know that you’re helping them.”

 
Back in the main kitchen, Mylander concentrated on assembling breads and pastries for the Spartans. He began his role as head baker at East this past November and said he has enjoyed the position. He bakes 250 dinner rolls on a typical day, and he makes dozens of desserts like chocolate cake, cookies and blueberry crisp.
 
“I really like being around the kids,” Mylander said. “They bring a lot of energy here. I really enjoy making food for them.”

 
Additional jobs like packaging salads, loading soft drinks into refrigerators and processing a full bushel of cucumbers take place before any Spartan reaches the cafeteria. The team then moves into the meal portion of the day. Employees serve items to students, monitor how much food is being used and restock trays and bins as needed. The first lunch period at East begins at 10:35 a.m. and the final lunch gate closes at 1:02 p.m.
 
Mujkic said she is proud to be part of a group that is fueling the futures of so many people.
 
“Every single plate of food is important for someone,” Mujkic said. “That’s the way I look at it. Every single person needs a good meal during their day, and that’s what we can provide them. It feels really good to know that.”
 
Discover how LPS Nutrition Services is impacting the lives of thousands of students each day.
 
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Posted on April 30, 2026

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence: Join Us for the Ruth Hill Elementary Golden Anniversary

For half a century, Ruth Hill Elementary School has proudly committed to helping students and families soar in South Lincoln from the first bell in 1976 to the present day.

We invite students past and present, dedicated staff and the community to join us as we honor this historical moment with a special open house celebration on Sunday, May 3, 2026. 

Event Details

• When: Sunday, May 3
• Time: 2 - 4 p.m.
• Where: Hill Elementary School, 5230 Tipperary Trail
• Who: Current and past Hill Hawks 

A Special Anniversary Program

We will kick off our celebratory open house at 2 p.m. with a DJ, then a short program starting at 2:15 p.m. in our outdoor classroom, including: 

• Roscoe Hill, son of our school’s namesake, Ruth Hill.
• Marilyn Johnson Farr, Ph.D, Lincoln Board of Education member.
• Emily Wiebeck, Hill Elementary School Principal.

Explore the Legacy: Community Open House

Following the presentation, stay and walk down memory lane in our building, where you can:

• Reconnect with former teachers, classmates, and colleagues with some treats. 
• Travel through decades of school memorabilia and vintage photos.
• See how our classrooms have evolved to serve today’s scholars.

 
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Posted on April 30, 2026

LPS American Indian students learn about robotics at engaging workshop

Lincoln Public Schools students like Dean and ZenDaya learned how robots can strengthen both culture and community at an interactive workshop this spring.
 
The LPS fifth graders joined more than 20 fellow American Indian students at a workshop hosted by youth robotics inventor Danielle Boyer. She inspired them by incorporating themes of teamwork, friendship and entrepreneurship into a presentation about the benefits of technology. She helped them create plans for robots that could assist their elders with activities such as walking, gardening or picking things up.
 
ZenDaya, who attends Elliott Elementary School, designed a robot to help ease her grandmother’s grocery shopping. It included four baskets that provided space for her groceries and wallet. The machine also featured a bodyguard who would protect her grandmother while she was at the store.
 
ZenDaya said she would remember the workshop’s lessons in all of her LPS activities.
 
“It’s pushing me to my limit to learn how to be a respectful, safe and honorable student at Elliott,” ZenDaya said.

Dean, who attends Cavett Elementary School, displayed the same type of compassion as he sketched his robot at another table. He brainstormed a machine that could grab items for people from shelves with Spiderman-like webs. His spider bot also featured suction cups that would allow it to access hard-to-reach places with ease.
 
Dean said Boyer’s message of perseverance and triumph made him feel more confident in his ideas.
 
“Even though if people don’t believe you, you should always believe in yourself,” Dean said.
 
Joe Rousseau said those reactions are why he was excited to have students attend the workshop. Rousseau, the LPS American Indian education demonstration grant coordinator, received an e-mail this past fall from Dominique Ellis at the Center for Great Plains Studies. She told him about an opportunity to meet Boyer and learn about her groundbreaking work with American Indian languages and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) topics.
 
“Danielle encouraged our youth to learn our languages, to follow our dreams as she did, to use our strengths towards improving our communities, and to empower ourselves with education so we have the tools needed to craft the future we want,” Rousseau said.
 
Boyer, who is Anishnaabe from the Sault Tribe, shared her story of growing up below the poverty line with her family. She did not have as many opportunities for science and technology classes as a youth, which has motivated her to make education accessible for everyone. She is the founder of The STEAM Connection, a youth-led charity that has reached hundreds of thousands of children across the world.
 
Boyer began her presentation by showcasing the positive effects of technology in villages and cities. She wanted to plant the seeds of high-tech interest for American Indian students and encourage them to consider the career field.
 
“I feel like tech is used in a lot of harmful ways, and I wanted to show ways that we can leverage it for good,” Boyer said. “I think that when we use technology for positive uses in our communities, it can create a lot of change.”
 
Boyer’s most recent invention is doing exactly that. She has created the SkoBot, which is an interactive American Indian language revitalization robot. Her grandmother is the last fluent speaker of Anishinaabemowin in her family, and Boyer wanted to ensure her heritage would be preserved for many future generations. The SkoBot is shaped in the form of a toy for kids. The device is also designed to bridge the gap between language learning and documentation in a family-based way.

 
Boyer said she was happy to watch students like ZenDaya and Dean come up with creative ideas during the morning. She felt they had the potential to turn their inventions into high-tech reality one day.
 
“I hope they’re excited by STEM,” Boyer said. “I think a lot of the time, it’s the first time people are being exposed to that, like what Indigenous tech could look like, and so I always hope that kids want to pursue that themselves.”
 
Dean said he was impressed by how the workshop introduced new ideas to him.
 
“It talked about how robots could help scientists and people,” Dean said. “So, I think I want to start building robots to help people.”

 
Rousseau felt the event also sparked an increased sense of belonging for everyone who attended.
 
“Students see for themselves they are not the only American Indian at their school, as we are in every classroom, in every school building,” Rousseau said. “We are still here.”
 
Rousseau said the opportunity for students to meet Boyer would have a long-lasting impact in academic, social and cultural ways.
 
“It is important for our students to see for themselves that LPS values our community and our understanding,” Rousseau said. “When LPS provides us with the space to celebrate our culture, the bridge is strengthened between our community and our schools, deepening the trust amongst our community for the public education our children receive.”
 
Learn more about American Indian educational opportunities at LPS.
 
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Posted on April 29, 2026

Eden ensures excellent memories for Grizzlies as yearbook leader

Eden is ensuring that all of Standing Bear’s success stories will be told in memorable ways this school year.
 
The Standing Bear High School senior is using her journalism talents to produce top-notch copy for the yearbook. She has been on staff all three years of the school’s existence and is currently vice-editor-in-chief of the Standing Bear Kodiak. She is responsible for overseeing yearbook spreads, proofreading copy, generating story ideas and covering events with her words and photos.
 
Eden said she enjoys publishing the first drafts of school history with her fellow staff members.
 
“I like being able to put words together to make people feel like they’re in the moment,” Eden said. “That’s my biggest goal. I want to be able to make a time capsule for everybody to be able to look back on.”

 
Standing Bear teacher Brianna Knoell has watched Eden thrive with her camera, computer and creative mindset. Knoell leads English, yearbook and broadcast journalism classes and has helped students advance to state journalism competitions. She said Eden’s intelligent and hardworking personality has made her a vital part of the Standing Bear team.
 
“There are so many things I love about having Eden in class, but something that stands out is her creativity,” Knoell said. “Eden always has the best ideas and she never backs down from a challenge. Whenever I’m unsure about what to do on a certain page in the yearbook or how to use certain elements, Eden always figures it out in a way that looks stunning. She has been a pivotal part of all three yearbook themes and covers thus far.”
 
Eden began her high school career at Southwest and came to Standing Bear when it opened in the 2023-24 academic year. She made a seamless transition by joining the softball team, attending Hope Squad meetings and working on yearbook pages. She said the community spirit at Standing Bear has been a source of pride for all of the Grizzlies.
 
“I feel like it’s different than what you think the average high school community would be,” Eden said. “We were able to start everything ourselves. We started new traditions and built our community and were able to be the foundation for the school. It’s really neat to be a part of something like that.”

 
That list of new beginnings included the yearbook, which chronicled the achievements of two grades in its first edition. This year’s publication has increased to approximately 200 pages with stories about four grades.
 
Knoell said Eden has become a trusted mentor for many people in the building. She has passed along her knowledge to younger staff members who have relied on her judgment and expertise. She qualified for this year’s state journalism contest in the layout design category, and she helped the Kodiak staff earn a state bid in theme development.
 
“Eden is a role model in her dedication to achieving and maintaining a high standard for our yearbook,” Knoell said. “Other staffers look to Eden for inspiration, and Eden is always willing to lend a helping hand.”
 
Knoell said Eden’s strong academic resume has also played a factor in her success. She is planning to major in pre-veterinary medicine at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln after she graduates from Standing Bear. She has met people from across campus because of her willingness to take many types of courses, which has expanded the number of story possibilities for the yearbook.
 
“Our staff knows that we want to produce a yearbook that students want to have on their shelves, and accomplishing that takes the leadership of editors like Eden,” Knoell said. “Whether it’s coming up with new ideas or giving feedback to existing ones, our Kodiak Krew looks to Eden for guidance.”

 
Eden said she has felt like an honorary member of every school group because of her yearbook role. She has taken her camera to the sidelines of Standing Bear games, written about academic activities and composed spreads about social events. She said it has been fun watching fellow Grizzlies enjoy bright moments in all types of settings.
 
“There are so many things that I’m interested in,” Eden said. “It was hard to pick one thing that I wanted to focus on, but being on yearbook has given me an opportunity to explore everything. I love being a part of all of those things.”
 
Eden said her time with her Kodiak co-workers has been a memorable part of her Standing Bear career. She said it has been meaningful to tell stories about her fellow Grizzlies in a time-capsule format.
 
“It makes me feel like I have a purpose,” Eden said. “It makes me feel like I’ve accomplished things for the good of others.”
 
Learn how English Language Arts courses like journalism are preparing LPS students to become successful members of society.
 
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Posted on April 29, 2026

Clinton marks century of success during celebration of school building

Whenever Rose Jurica Hitz looks out her kitchen window, she sees evidence of Clinton Elementary School’s widespread impact on the Lincoln community.
 
Hitz joined numerous visitors this spring at the centennial celebration of the school building. She moved to Lincoln with her family in 1945 and began taking kindergarten classes on the historic campus that year. In the eight decades afterwards, she has sent three children through Clinton’s doors, been a member of the school’s parent-teacher association and remained in the same neighborhood house she and her husband bought in 1959.
 
Hitz said her connection to Clinton remains as strong as the day she first came to Lancaster County. She was grateful for the galaxies of energy that the current Comets bring with them to school.
 
“I love to see the excitement in the kids,” Hitz said. “I like to see that what’s going on with them, that there is still hope out there for us.”

 
Hitz’s daughter, Rochelle, holds the same type of warm memories from her time at Clinton. She smiled as she remembered having Mrs. Lake for kindergarten, Mrs. Givener for fourth grade and Mr. Roscoe in fifth grade. She said the school was the focal point of a joyful childhood on 29th Street.
 
“What I say makes Clinton special is the neighborhood, the people, the caring, the friendships,” Rochelle said. “It was just special. It was a happy time.”
 
Thousands of other Lincoln Public Schools students have shared those sentiments over the years. The original Clinton Elementary School building was constructed in 1890 and 1891 for $22,000. Located at 29th and Clinton, the school was named in honor of DeWitt Clinton, who served as a state senator, lieutenant governor and governor of New York in the early 1800s. The first classes took place on Sept. 14, 1891.
 
LPS leaders decided to make a new stone structure at 30th and Holdrege in the 1920s. The school formally opened to the public on Nov. 18, 1926, and it has been the site of many light-bulb learning moments ever since.
 
Principal Angee Luedtke said the building’s 100th anniversary has made for a fun trip down memory lane. She has spent her entire 30-year LPS career at Clinton, including the past ten as school principal. She taught second, third and fourth grades for 14 years before working as an assistant principal for the next six years. She now leads more than 60 staff members in their daily educational duties.
 
Luedtke said the celebration felt like a large family reunion. She struck up conversations with many former and current students throughout the late afternoon, and she smiled with former co-workers, current teachers and many local residents.
 
“I just think that it’s a really special place,” Luedtke said. “It’s a place that people gravitate to. It really is a sense of family.”

 
Clinton second grader Yeva agreed with Luedtke as she walked with her friends in one of the hallways. She said she is happy to be at Clinton because of the strong connections she has made with fellow Comets.
 
“I like how everybody’s nice,” Yeva said.
 
Hitz remembers having those same feelings when she attended school in the 1940s. What was one of her favorite memories of being at Clinton?
 
“Probably the teachers being so dedicated and showing you, because I came from a poor background, that there was opportunity for you to learn,” Hitz said. “The excitement of learning books and things, what you could learn.”
 
Hitz remained attached to the school throughout the following decades. She joined Clinton’s Parent-Teacher Association when her three children became Comets, and she participated in many activities that benefited students. She vividly recalls PTA members preparing for Clinton Fun Night each year by making potato salad. The group would boil 100 pounds of potatoes before adding eggs, mustard and mayonnaise for everyone to enjoy.
 
“We mothers were very, very involved in that school at that time, so I do remember those years,” Hitz said.

The 2026 version of Clinton’s building includes many technological items that could never have been imagined 100 years ago. The campus also features a new synthetic turf playground that was installed in 2024. Hundreds of students enjoy recess on the field during school days and outdoor activities on the weekends.
 
“The use of that playground, it just warms my heart,” Hitz said. “I can look out my kitchen window on a Sunday morning or Saturday morning and see them out there playing soccer. The neighbor gal says her boy used to come in the house and play games. Now he’s out playing soccer.”
 
Luedtke said scenes like that happen at Clinton because of the trust that the school and neighborhood have built with each other. She said those bonds would continue to remain strong as Clinton steps into its next century of educational success.
 
“I just love the community that we serve,” Luedtke said. “I love the students. I love the diversity. I love the people that teach here, and the passion that they have for teaching and learning.”

The future of LPS is collaborative. Check out our 2024-29 Strategic Plan to see how we’re strengthening family and community engagement in our schools.
 
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Posted on April 29, 2026

Grizzlies gain robotics knowledge with new high-tech tools

Standing Bear High School students like Michal are programming bright futures with new high-tech tools.
 
Members of Standing Bear’s Robotics 2 class are among the first Lincoln Public Schools students to use the VEX CTE 6-Axis Robotic Arm. The product teaches them how to code robots to perform precise movements and commonplace tasks in agricultural and manufacturing settings. The device includes six rotational joints that allow the Grizzlies to freely manipulate the arm in many directions.
 
Michal said it is exciting to step into a new frontier of robotics education in Lincoln. He said the cutting-edge technology is giving him skills that will directly transfer into the workplace.
 
“Being a high school senior, it really gets me stoked to know that these are things that I’m learning now, and these could be potential jobs for me in the future as well,” Michal said.

 
Alex Flamme said those reactions are why she is passionate about incorporating technology into her skilled and technical sciences (STS) classrooms. She spent five years as a manufacturing automation engineer before deciding to become a teacher. She said it is essential for her Standing Bear students to learn about STS careers through instruments like the robotic arm.
 
“I think the industry we are preparing students for is a hidden one,” Flamme said. “Even if a student has a family member in the field, they often have no idea what they do because their work is done in a facility that you can’t visit, like a doctor’s office or a Wal-Mart. But the industry is critical. The top two industries in Nebraska are agriculture and manufacturing. Robotics and automation have a role in both.”
 
LPS Career and Technical Education Curriculum Specialist Jason Thomsen said the school district wants to prepare students for those expanding careers. Many companies have designed robots that can perform tasks like harvesting fragile crops such as lettuce and strawberries, and others use machines to complete tasks in greenhouses. There are also agricultural robots that can seed and fertilize crops, weed fields and herd cattle.
 
“It’s exciting anytime we can bring relevant content to students as part of our curriculum,” Thomsen said. “The VEX robotic arms provide students with the opportunity for a hands-on experience that mirrors real-world industrial automation, while also developing problem-solving skills needed for future careers.”
 
Michal began learning about the profession in the Robotics 1 class. He and other Grizzlies used VEX V5 kits to engineer and design robots to perform various tasks. Robotics 2 students are relying on that knowledge to work on more advanced projects this semester. They are incorporating subjects such as physics, math and computer science into their daily assignments.
 
The Grizzlies began working with the VEX CTE 6-Axis Robotic Arm curriculum earlier this winter. They moved through assignments such as coding the robot’s movements and teaching it how to transport and palletize objects. They will finish the eight-step unit with a capstone project that focuses on an engineering design process.
 
Flamme said she has been pleased with the progress in her class. Students have learned that the robotic arm has inputs and outputs that allow programmers to control the jobs it performs.
 
“You’re moving the robot to a position, and you’re telling it that position that it can then repeat and go to over and over again,” Flamme said.

 
The class has also discovered new ways to solve problems. The kit includes parts such as a signal tower and base, pen holder tool, dry erase markers and magnetic pickup tool. Students can experiment with different resources and aim to accomplish jobs quickly and efficiently.
 
Michal said his firsthand experiences with robots have shown him how beneficial they can be. If he had free rein to design an android, what would he want it to do?
 
“I would want it to solve everyday problems that I have, and I’d want it to do it as fast and best as possible,” Michal said.

 
In addition to providing technical information about the robotics world, the class is also inspiring students to explore new career paths. The Grizzlies have taken field trips to local manufacturing plants and talked about available opportunities in college robotics courses.
 
Students have also learned about the growing prospects in computer science fields. For example, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 160,000 new jobs in the software development industry by 2033.
 
“I would love to be the person that puts (robots) together and especially install them and run programs and run things that they need for desired companies,” Michal said.
 
Flamme said the new robotic arm is an important tool that the Grizzlies can use to reach those types of educational and occupational goals.
 
“I feel really excited about robotics because it feels like a problem to tackle,” Flamme said. “So many times you think about the outcome of what a robot does and that it’s cool to look at, but really, when you’re the one trying to make it happen and make it do that, it’s just so many layers of problems for you to solve. There’s a lot of satisfaction when you get to actually make something and make it work.”
 
Did you know that LPS offers nearly 100 career and technical education courses? Discover more about these learning opportunities.
 
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Posted on April 28, 2026

Sidar navigates language journey to become role model at North Star

North Star High School senior Sidar is a shining example of how hard work can lead to heartwarming results.
 
Sidar has become a role model for many Navigators with his efforts in both the classroom and community. He has spent the past four years learning the English language, studying aviation mechanics and earning money for his family. Along the way, he has gained an aircraft-sized amount of friends, confidence and respect in North Star’s hallways.
 
Sidar said he has treasured his time at Lincoln Public Schools because of the opportunities he has gained here. He began his first year at North Star in the English Learners (EL) 1 program with a limited English vocabulary. He is now able to speak the language fluently at his school, workplace and social activities.
 
“This means a lot to me,” Sidar said. “When you come from another country, you have to work hard to get here, and I’m proud of how much I’ve improved.”

 
North Star Associate Principal Doug Weatherholt said it has been an honor to watch Sidar become an important part of the North Star family. He said Sidar’s story is inspiring because it reflects how much time he has poured into studying English words, sentences and phrases.
 
“These kids work so hard to try to learn the language and to try to acclimate themselves to the culture, so it’s awesome to see someone like Sidar, who exemplifies the work ethic and the attitude and the kind of things that make us proud to have an EL program at North Star,” Weatherholt said. “We’re proud of our EL students across the district, but in particular the ones who we see put in the hard work that some other students who’ve known English all their lives might take for granted.”
 
Sidar and his family came to Lincoln from the city of Erbil, which is the capital of the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Erbil has an estimated population of 960,000 and is an industrial and cultural hub of the area.
 
Sidar said he was impressed by the welcoming smiles that North Star teachers and students showered on him when he first arrived. He and his twin brother were unfamiliar with the campus, but the kind actions of fellow Navigators made him realize that he was in a good place.
 
“As a freshman, I was pretty young and didn’t know where anything was in the school building,” Sidar said. “But everyone was really nice. When I was looking for a class, people would be there to help out.”

 
Sidar said staff members rallied around him as he increased his English skills. In addition to the practice he received in EL settings, he also earned opportunities to improve in math, science and social studies courses.
 
“This school helped me to learn English and become more confident in it,” Sidar said. “In classes, teachers would always give me a chance to practice speaking, and over that time, I got better.”
 
Weatherholt said many teachers have noticed Sidar’s bright outlook on life. He said that has opened doors of mutual understanding and respect.
 
“You just appreciate when kids are willing to talk to adults and show that level of maturity, especially when he doesn’t have as much experience with English as other kids,” Weatherholt said. “He’s always had a great smile on his face and a tremendous attitude.”
 
North Star’s supportive academic environment has also helped Sidar thrive. One of his favorite classes has been Power Mechanics in the Aviation and Technical Education Focus Program. He has practiced flying and landing airplanes in simulators and is exploring possible aviation-based business careers.
 
“I enjoy working with my hands,” Sidar said. “I really liked the mechanical class. We built machines and a lot of really neat things.”

 
Sidar’s industrious attitude is benefiting those closest to him. He currently works at a large commercial store in town to bring in extra income. He beamed as Weatherholt shared a story about interacting with him at the business one day.
 
“When I saw him working there, I said to myself that the amount of work ethic this kid has is amazing,” Weatherholt said. “It looked like you were enjoying it as much there as you do here in the hallways. Your smile was the same and your energy was the same. ‘They’re lucky to have you,’ is what I thought.”
 
Sidar has been accepted into Southeast Community College and will major in business next year. He said he will miss many people at North Star who have made him feel welcomed and respected over the past four years.
 
“My friends. My teachers,” Sidar said. “There are a lot of good people here.”
 
Are you the proud family of a graduating LPS senior? Find everything you need to prepare for the big day, including ceremony dates, times and venue locations. View the 2026 Graduation Schedule and Details.
 
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Posted on April 27, 2026

Food Philanthropy: Southeast alumni give back by helping Knights at food market

Southeast High School alumni are providing nourishing encouragement for students five decades after earning their own black-and-gold diplomas.
 
Southeast graduates from 1976 and 1977 are serving as volunteers for the Southeast Food Market. They unpack food from pallets, arrange items on tables and help students collect needed household meals each month. They also offer reassuring smiles to current Knights who are supporting their families with food.
 
Julie Smith and Susan Dinsmore said they and other members of the group have enjoyed giving back to their alma mater. Smith graduated from Southeast in 1976 and Dinsmore appeared in her commencement ceremony one year later. They said the 90 minutes they spend together at the food market each month have become cherished moments for everyone.
 
“We’re all retired, so we have the time to do it, and we know it’s meaningful work,” Smith said. “We’re all graduates of Southeast, and we work hard and have fun together. We’re all driven by the mission.”
 
“Clearly, there’s a need for food bank services at Southeast,” Dinsmore said. “A lot of families are struggling, and we all need to help out in whatever way we can. This is just a very small thing we can do to help.”

 
Gretchen Baker said the alumni have made notable differences for the Southeast community. Baker is a school social worker who has organized food markets on campus for many years. She has been thrilled with the life-changing connections the veteran Knights have made with high schoolers.
 
“They are invested in our community and our kids,” Baker said. “So, they are very respectful of our students but also are not afraid to interact with them as they fill their bags of food.”
 
The food market is the result of a partnership between Southeast and Food Bank of Lincoln, which is a member of the national Feeding America organization. Southeast alum Doug Ganz served as a board member on the Food Bank of Lincoln Foundation, and he was approached one day by Food Bank of Lincoln representative John Mabry. Ganz spoke about his desire to give back to his alma mater, and they came up with a plan to launch the food market at Southeast.
 
Each year, Food Bank of Lincoln distributes approximately 10 million meals to people struggling with food insecurity in 16 Nebraska counties. Feeding America estimated that approximately 32,000 Lancaster County residents face food insecurity.
 
Food Bank of Lincoln employees transport multiple pallets to Southeast for the monthly food markets. They then hand over the reins to the alumni, who empty the contents of each container with enthusiasm. They bring fresh supplies of fruits and vegetables, packages of pasta and mashed potatoes and dozens of cereal boxes to tables set up in the lower commons.
 
Students can obtain food at no cost during the events, and there is no application or pre-approval process. They simply show up, sign in and pick up fresh produce, bakery items and non-perishable food.

 
John Ritze and Rose Haberlan said they have enjoyed bridging the generational gap with food market visitors. Many alumni have volunteered at Southeast for three years, which has helped them form bonds with students who regularly come to the lower commons area.
 
“It’s pretty consistent who shows up, so when the kids come, they’re able to recognize us,” Ritze said. “I think the students who do come feel comfortable talking with us.”
 
“We’ll tell them that, no, you can take two cans. You don’t have to limit it to one,” Haberlan said. “We’ll tell them that somebody will eat it at your house.”
 
Smith and Dinsmore said it has also given the group a chance to maintain longtime friendships. Many volunteers have known each other for more than 60 years. They shared updates about their families, talked about community news and traded heartfelt laughs as they organized food one afternoon.
 
“I love the camaraderie and the fellowship,” Dinsmore said. “It’s fun to see my old buddies from high school and be able to work with them. They’re just a fun group.”
 
“We all graduated in the 1970s, and we’ve been friends ever since,” Smith said. “Some of us have been friends since kindergarten.”

One of the group’s top goals is to meet even more students. The final food market of the school year will run from 2:45-3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13. There will be a summer break before the food market events resume in September.
 
“We’re always wanting to get more kids in here,” Smith said. “We normally get about 125, and there are hundreds who could use the food.”
 
“We’d like to double our numbers if we could,” Haberlan said. “That would be nice. We just need to get the word out that this is available.”
 
All the Southeast alumni said they would like to continue volunteering for as long as they can. Smith said she hoped similar food markets could provide nourishing encouragement for students at other Lincoln Public Schools buildings.
 
“I feel like every school should be able to come up with a group of alums who are passionate about their school and helping the families that are there,” Smith said.
 
Want to be a difference maker like these Southeast alums? Discover how to become a Lincoln Public Schools volunteer. 
 
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Posted on April 24, 2026

Rockets generate energy knowledge from series of solar power lessons

Northeast High School students charged up their energy knowledge this spring by learning how solar electricity affects all of the Rockets.
 
Members of the Environmental Studies class spent three days examining details about the school’s new solar panels. Northeast science teacher Kristi Puls and John Hay of Nebraska Extension of Lancaster County led activities that showcased how sunlight is converted into electricity. Students toured the solar panel field, learned about energy distribution and consumption and calculated how many solar panels would power the entire campus.
 
Northeast senior Kwame joined his classmates for the indoor and outdoor activities. He said it was fun to discover more information about solar energy.
 
“I’ve learned a lot about how electricity is generated,” Kwame said. “It’s been really good.”

 
Hay said he enjoyed sharing his knowledge with the Rockets during the sustainability unit. He informs many residents about energy topics through his Nebraska Extension work. He also teaches an Energy Systems and Sustainability course to University of Nebraska-Lincoln students.
 
“I do think energy literacy is important, and it’s a building process for them,” Hay said. “They might not be purchasing their own electricity yet, but they will in a short number of years. As they drive vehicles, they’re going to be buying fuel. I think understanding energy terminology and how energy works is going to be essential for them.”
 
Puls said she was excited to watch students become engaged with the material. They learned about key electrical terms such as generation, transmission, distribution and load, and they found out that having a mix of energy sources helps power become more reliable. They also realized how vital the subject is in an age of 24/7 electrical consumption.
 
“I could see some of them really connecting with what was going on,” Puls said. “That was good to see.”

 
Puls said it is valuable for students like Kwame to learn more about new energy technologies. Data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) ranks Nebraska 13th in the nation in terms of the greatest energy potential from solar power. More than three dozen Nebraska counties or cities have constructed solar facilities that generate at least 950 kilowatts of power.
 
Lincoln joined that list in 2016 when Lincoln Electric System built the Holdrege Solar Center. Located at Northwest 75th and West Holdrege streets, the facility includes 15,333 solar panels that generate five megawatts of solar energy. It produces enough energy to power 900 typical homes in Lincoln.
 
The Rockets began their project by inspecting a series of new solar panels located next to Northeast’s tennis courts. Lincoln Public Schools installed its first solar arrays at Standing Bear and Northwest high schools in 2023. LPS expanded its solar capacity by adding Northeast’s panels in 2025. The school district also placed panels at Scott and Lux middle schools the same year.

LPS Sustainability Coordinator Brittney Wees said the solar panels have helped students in many ways. All five LPS solar arrays are located on the ground next to their schools, which has made them more accessible for educational lessons like those at Northeast.

“It is really great to see opportunities for students to connect with renewable energy generation expand across the district,” Wees said. “One of the benefits of having our arrays be ground-mounted instead of roof-mounted is the ability to have these classroom activities for students to get hands-on experience with them.”

 
Hay first gave students background information about the mechanics of solar generation and distribution. The class then looked at how the panels are slanted to best capture the sun’s rays in different seasons of the year. They also learned about live dashboards that provide real-time updates on how much daily energy the solar panels produce.
 
“I think they have a better sense of how the solar panels turn that sunlight into electricity,” Hay said. “We started with that, and then we explored where that electricity goes.”
 
The Rockets spent their second day calculating how much land would be needed to power Northeast’s entire campus from solar energy. They determined LPS would need to fill six acres with solar panels to accomplish that goal.
 
“I think that was a good visual for them to think about,” Puls said. “We’d need six football fields to make it happen.”
 
The class played a board game called Microgrid Mastermind on day three. Several of Hay’s college students created the game to show players how grids move electricity from power plants to home outlets. The Rockets bought fuel distribution lines, expanded electrical substations and determined which power sources would work best for their city.
 
Puls said Microgrid Mastermind showed students why it is critical to have multiple ways of providing energy to the public. Players picked up action cards each round that introduced either positive or negative twists to the game’s storyline. The Rockets learned how natural events such as droughts, cold temperatures and severe weather can put stress on the power grid. They also discovered that squirrels are the top reason for power outages in Nebraska.

 
“I loved this game because they could see all different types of power, and they knew how they needed to make those connections,” Puls said. “I think with this game, they were able to put it all together.”
 
Hay said he hoped the activities gave students a better grasp of a topic that impacts everyone in Lincoln.
 
“Energy is something that we interact with all our lives, so it’s important to start learning about it as soon as we can,” Hay said. “It’s important to understand what energy we use and how we can save and be efficient with it. This is something they will use throughout their lives.”
 
Track daily electrical usage of the five LPS solar sites through this LPS Sustainability webpage.
 
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Posted on April 22, 2026

LPS students gain global skills at UNL World Language Fair

Dana, Eman and Mohammed provided powerful illustrations this spring of how Lincoln Public Schools classes are boosting their global prospects.
 
The Northeast High School trio joined a large LPS delegation at the 2026 University of Nebraska-Lincoln World Language Fair. The three Rockets were among 20 students who represented the school in Arabic language activities. Music, poetry, drama, film, folk dancing and poster art contests also took place in German, Chinese, Japanese, French and Spanish languages.
 
Eman felt the fair gave her a world-sized educational value. She was part of a nine-person group that won first place in the Arabic film contest for a production called “Under the Table.” The junior also created a poster that combined embroidery and painting. Her artwork featured 11 flowers next to a city scene contained within the outline of the country of Syria.
 
“Last year I came to see what was happening, and it gave me a lot of really good ideas,” Eman said. “This year, I’m here competing and I’m really enjoying it.”

 
Many other students in Arabic, Chinese and Japanese classes shared those wide smiles at the fair. The three programs are among the smaller LPS world language offerings in terms of enrollment, but they have consistently produced shining results at statewide events. More than a dozen students in each language showcased their talents in contests held at the Nebraska City Campus Union and other UNL locations.
 
Mohammed and Dana each won individual honors for their academic work. Mohammed earned first place in the Arabic poster contest for his painting called “The Beauty of Adventures.” The sophomore drew a sailor standing on a wooden ship with birds flying nearby in the sunset. He said it was fulfilling to come up with the idea and work through a learning curve.
 
“I messed up a few times, so it was fun for me to restart and see what I did wrong in the first two tries,” Mohammed said. “The third one worked out because I learned from my mistakes. I learned what colors I should have and how I needed to redraw it. It was fun to go through that trial-and-error process and come out with a better artwork.”

 
Dana defended her state title in the Arabic poetry competition. The junior said she enjoyed the event because it helped her become more familiar with different words, phrases and expressions. She was also able to meet fellow students who are considering similar postsecondary options in world languages.
 
“It’s a good experience to grow my Arabic language and see the college for the future,” Dana said.
 
Southwest High School teammates Espree and Alivia also gained language treasures in their Japanese music contest. They performed a Japanese song in front of judges and multiple rows of students from across Nebraska. They wore traditional dresses as they sang several verses of the tune in the Chimney Rock Room.

 
Espree said the activity made a major impression on her. She felt learning and performing the song would help her retain more of the Japanese language.
 
“I really liked doing this,” Espree said. “The music was good to learn, and I think it made for deeper memories of the whole day.”
 
Alivia said she had pocketed a wealth of life skills from preparing for the day with her friend. The ninth grader beamed as applause spilled across the room after she and Espree finished their song.
 
“Doing this has really helped with my public speaking skills,” Alivia said. “Before this, I was a little more scared about getting in front of a group, but now I’m a lot more comfortable with it.”
 
North Star High School teacher Chun-Yi Coral Su brought 14 Chinese language students with her to campus. The majority of the Navigators participated in Level 1 poetry and poster events, and one group took part in the Chinese film category. North Star also had one entrant in the Chinese music contest.
 
The Chinese posters featured a wide range of cultural scenes. Uyen created a drawing of a dragon soaring above a mountainous rural town, and Chau produced a picture of a woman standing next to a cherry blossom tree in the sunlight. Genesis sketched several colorful flowers beneath Chinese text that talked about fresh petals covered with morning dew.

LPS students also participated in mini-lessons about holidays and celebrations from countries in Europe and Asia. Northeast students Rana, Mohammed, Lina and Hamzeh joined Arabic teacher Nael Hijjo in one of the presentations in Burnett Hall. They spoke about their cultural experiences with the Eid al-Fitr holiday, which marks the end of Ramadan.
 
Mohammed said he enjoyed discovering facts about many global customs and traditions during the day. He said participating in the fair would help him boost his educational prospects for years to come.
 
“I feel like it will help me moving forward because doing a project like this helps you learn, and getting experiences like this helps you grow as a person,” Mohammed said. “You’re able to see and know more things.”
 
Discover how world language classes are helping LPS students become informed global citizens.
 
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Posted on April 20, 2026

LPS students help sustainability summit thrive with new ideas

Lincoln Public Schools students planted seeds of sustainability this spring when they helped an environmental summit grow in both scope and popularity.
 
Community members from across Lincoln attended the fourth annual Students of Sustainability Summit at the Science Focus Program’s campus. The 2026 event marked the first time that a Student Advisory Committee (SAC) provided input before the summit. The 11-person group assisted LPS Sustainability leaders in selecting breakout session topics and spreading knowledge about the conference to classmates.
 
Science Focus Program student Judie said it was fun to play a key role in the organizational process. She said the SAC meetings gave her a greater sense of ownership of the summit and helped her meet new friends.
 
“Something I enjoyed about being on the Student Advisory Committee was having the opportunity to pour my heart and soul into something that I’m passionate about,” Judie said. “Conservation has always been something that’s interested me and been important to me, and so finding other people who felt the same way was such an amazing feeling and experience. I was able to really focus on helping decide what kind of topics and breakout sessions we wanted to have.”

 
LPS Sustainability Coordinator Brittney Wees said she was pleased with the feedback SAC members offered. Isabella, Jayden, Skylar, Zain, Arrow, Judie, Ashton, Clio, Darryl, Ella and Jihye applied to be on the inaugural committee.
 
“It was so valuable having the input of students this year through the Student Advisory Committee,” Wees said. “This was something new we did for the event planning process, and we know it contributed to this year’s event being so successful. It was really beneficial to hear directly from students what topics they were interested in learning more about and getting their help sharing the opportunity with their peers.”
 
A Student Sustainability Showcase was one of the new components of the 2026 summit. Many LPS students presented projects about a wide range of scientific and environmental topics. Local clubs and organizations also provided information about their efforts to promote sustainability in Lincoln.
 
Southwest High School sophomore Ella spoke with visitors about her involvement in the school’s Hive Helpers program. Ella is the club’s outreach manager and arranged Southwest’s vegetable garden this year. She also coordinated a group of volunteers who dug new homes for native plants in a pollinator garden.
 
Ella said the summit gave her fresh ideas about increasing the number of future Hive Helpers activities.
 
“It was fascinating to hear about other students’ experiences in testifying and promoting the environment through activism,” Ella said. “It is definitely something I really want to work towards for Hive Helpers in the coming years. It was a unique perspective in helping the environment, which I had not given much initial thought. Now, I feel as though I understand it much more and how to actually go about doing it thanks to the summit.”
 
Local experts led breakout sessions on solar energy, tree planting, youth leadership opportunities and gardening with native plant species. Wees, Southeast High School student Elise and Lincoln Board of Education member Piyush Srivastav also provided opening remarks. Wees described new sustainability initiatives happening at LPS, and Srivastav spoke about his role as founder and president of Nebraska Air Quality Specialties.

 
Elise thanked fellow attendees for being at the summit. She said it provided an important lesson about the power a community of people can have.
 
“The important thing, and the reason why it’s essential for all of us to be here today, is that people will listen,” Elise said. “Your voice is absolutely necessary, and it’s crucial for every single person here. Of course, it’s not one individual’s sole job to change the environment, the climate, policy or even someone’s opinion, but having a community like this that you can turn to and help out is extremely beneficial, and that’s why it’s amazing that we’re all here today.”
 
That message resonated with Judie throughout the afternoon and early evening. She said it was encouraging to talk with people from many high schools, focus programs and clubs.
 
“I feel as though something I learned from attending this year’s S.O.S. Summit is the sheer amount of people who would be a part of and/or interested in the world of conservation, if they aren’t already,” Judie said. “I didn’t know there were so many students and organizations in my community who focused on conservation just within Lincoln itself. It has definitely helped to connect me with these people, who I know I can work with, whether that be now still in high school or in the future after I’ve graduated and am in college or working.”

Wees said student involvement would be a key element of future summits. She was happy to watch their suggestions sprout into a forest full of educational lessons.
 
“This was our most successful S.O.S. Summit to date!” Wees said. “We had a great turnout from both students and community partners, and the level of engagement from everyone was fantastic. It was really great to see so many of our students coming together with an interest in taking local action to protect the environment.”
 
Learn more about LPS Sustainability’s efforts to teach students about scientific and environmental topics.
 
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Posted on April 20, 2026

Shy reels in respect with leadership skills at Southeast

Southeast High School senior Shy is reeling in big plans for his life with his strong work ethic, outgoing personality and commitment to excellence.
 
Shy has used his leadership and communication skills to become a role model for many Knights. He is an active participant in classes such as chemistry, algebra and German, and his effort on the football field this past season scored him a large amount of applause. He is planning to study heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and real estate at Southeast Community College this fall.
 
Shy is also an avid fisherman who dreams of one day catching large tarpon along the Florida coast. He said the encouraging environment at Southeast has given him the resources to pursue all of life’s goals with confidence.
 
“I feel like more students enjoy coming to school because of the staff and the people that they’re surrounded by here,” Shy said. “It makes people happy when they have people who are behind them and are supporting them in everything.”

 
Southeast administrators Antonio Horton and Robert Baltensperger said Shy has become a key member of the school family. They said he has used his platform in both academics and athletics to inspire other people.
 
“The thing I enjoy the most about Shy is his work ethic,” Horton said. “When things look like they are getting tough, Shy shows his resilience and perseverance to push through. When Shy gives you his word, he stands on it.”
 
“Shy fits really well into that leadership component that’s part of our school vision,” Baltensperger said. “He really embodies that well. To have students like him be able to contribute like that makes for a strong culture, and it makes for a place where people feel welcomed and included.”
 
Shy grew up in Lincoln and enrolled at Southeast at the beginning of his high school career. He said his first year at school was filled with moments of trying to fit in with the crowd. Conversations with teammates and teachers steered him in a direction that has led to many bright achievements since then.
 
“It takes a lot to get to that point,” Shy said. “You have to realize what you need to do to build yourself up as a person.”

 
Shy said his academic experiences have been a major factor in his growth. He has watched Southeast teachers establish classroom expectations of acceptance and assistance. They have been interested in how he and other Knights are doing daily, which has reinforced everyone’s self-esteem.
 
“When I have a teacher who can talk to me like I’m not just a student, but someone who really matters, it feels nice to learn from them,” Shy said. “It makes me want to do more.”
 
Shy said those feelings skyrocketed this past fall when he took part in a new activity for him. He joined the football team for the first time and became an integral part of the defensive unit. Even more importantly, he increased his friendship circle with both adults and students throughout the season.
 
“Being able to have teammates like that and have coaches that put that kind of respect on my name was incredible,” Shy said. “That made me feel really good. It made me feel like someone was counting on me to do something. I always wanted to make sure to do my job on the football field because of that.”

 
Those connections have impacted other people across campus as well. A younger Knight approached Shy in the hallway one day this spring and told him he was interested in joining more school activities. The student said he wanted to try playing football next season because of Shy’s example.
 
Baltensperger said those types of interactions have been common over the past several years. He said they were a testament to Shy’s increased maturity during that time.
 
“I’ve just enjoyed seeing the growth that Shy has made over his four years here,” Baltensperger said. “Not just physically, but how he’s developed into a young man who has great manners and is respectful and is a real leader in the building. He does the right thing, and kids look up to him.”
 
Horton said Shy will put those traits to good use after he graduates from Southeast. He felt Shy’s potential was as big as the Florida tarpon he will one day bring into his fishing boat.
 
“Shy has a very bright future,” Horton said. “Although he may have changed his plans a couple of times, he always has a goal. He is always willing to help others be successful and at the same time hold himself accountable for his progress. Whatever he decides to do, he’s going to be amazing!”
 
Are you the proud family of a graduating LPS senior? Find everything you need to prepare for the big day, including ceremony dates, times and venue locations. View the 2026 Graduation Schedule and Details.
 
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Posted on April 20, 2026

Campbell students grow community ties with spider plants

Campbell Elementary School second graders planted a love of reading into their lives this spring by taking home physical reminders of a cherished book.
 
More than 100 Coyotes received their own baby spider plants as part of a school library project. Librarian Jeanette Broxterman came up with the idea after she spotted “The World’s Best Class Plant” on this year’s list of Golden Sower Award book nominees. She gathered dozens of plants from area residents to give to eager second graders.
 
Bella and Rishaank sat together at a library table after placing their plants in their new homes. Both were writing names on the side of plastic cups that held the young sprouts. Bella decided to call her plant Miss Bella and Rishaank landed on Tummy for his name.
 
“I’ve always wanted a plant,” Bella said. “Now I have one.”
 
“I love this plant,” Rishaank said. “I can regrow it and have more if I want.”

 
Ava was also excited to receive her houseplant in the library. She drew several hearts on her cup after deciding to call it Lily.
 
“I wanted to name it Lily because it’s a girl,” Ava said.
 
Broxterman said the book provided a perfect opportunity to help the Coyotes grow their affection for reading in a fun way. The Nebraska Library Association picked “The World’s Best Class Plant” as one of ten nominees for the 2025-26 Golden Sower Award. The annual program aims to sow seeds of literacy in students by encouraging them to look at high-quality literature.
 
Broxterman felt she could copy the book’s storyline by giving 100 spider plants to every second grader. She decided community engagement was the way to go to achieve her goal, and she posted her request on social media platforms to spread the word.
 
At first, the response was slow. She received one spider plant from a friend, but there were no others for several days after her initial invitation.
 
“I was a little worried,” Broxterman said. “I wasn’t sure at first if we were going to make it.”

 
That trickle soon turned into a waterfall of community involvement. Friends, co-workers and people from across Lincoln began giving her plants at homes, schools and offices. She lined up trays of vegetation next to a row of library windows as the winter moved along.
 
Broxterman said one of her top goals for the project was to inform families about the vast amount of learning taking place at Campbell. She felt that having a physical plant at home would encourage children to talk more about school activities and assignments. Those conversations would then foster a deeper sense of connection among families, children and staff members.
 
“I hope that the students will talk about the book with their families and have a daily reminder of the cool things that we do in school,” Broxterman said. “I think a tangible item like a plant can spark those conversations. Sometimes parents don’t get to hear about those things from kids, but having a plant around is a way to show them that we are doing a lot of awesome things here to connect them with reading and learning.”
 
After listening to a presentation of “The World’s Best Class Plant,” students ventured to the courtyard to receive their memento. They filled a cup with fresh dirt, inserted their new plant into it and gave it their first drinks of water. They then proudly returned to the library to decide on a name.
 
Bella said she had been looking forward to picking out her plant from one of the trays. She said it was important to keep watering it so it would continue to grow.
 
“I learned that when you get something you have to care for it,” Bella said.

 
Ava said the book taught her about the value of plants. Characters in the story become attached to Jerry the Plant in their elementary school classroom throughout the school year. They learn how small things like a growing spider plant can brighten the day for everyone.
 
“I liked the book, and now I like plants too,” Ava said.
 
Broxterman said the project has also informed children about the joy of giving. Some second graders were concerned that Coyotes in kindergarten or first grade wouldn’t have their own vegetation at home. She talked to classes about how spider plants produce spiderettes at the tips of their offshoots. The small plantlets can be snipped off the mother plant, placed in soil and then raised to become new treasures for people.
 
“I told them to remember how spider plants can make babies, and that they could give those to a friend so they could have a plant too,” Broxterman said. “They got pretty excited about that.”
 
Broxterman said the spider plant project would till the reading soil for many Coyotes as they move through their elementary school years.
 
“I love plants, so this has been a lot of fun,” Broxterman said.
 
Learn more about the powerful reading opportunities that LPS libraries provide to students.
 
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Posted on April 17, 2026

Experience the 2026 LPS Music Festival: Join Us April 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Join Lincoln Public Schools for an inspiring afternoon of music, community and giving back. The 2026 LPS Music Festival, hosted by our school district’s Tri-M Music Honor Society chapters, brings together the best of our high school student musicians for a day you won’t want to miss.

Whether you are a fan of instrumental ensembles or vocal performances, this event highlights the incredible dedication and talent of our LPS students.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
• Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Location: Lincoln East High School Auditorium, 1000 S 70th St. Enter at door 23.  
• Featured Performers: Pangea, Los Mariachis De La Ciudad Estrella and many more talented young musicians.

More Than Just Music

Beyond the performances, the festival offers a fun-filled atmosphere for the entire family:

• Delicious Food: Enjoy a variety of tasty treats on-site.
• Silent Auction: Bid on unique items and support a great cause.
• Community Impact: Every ticket purchased directly supports Special Musicians, a local nonprofit dedicated to making music education accessible to everyone.

Ticket Information

Secure your spot today and save! Pre-purchasing your tickets is the fastest way to skip the line and support LPS Tri-M’s fundraising efforts.

Ticket Type 

• Online advance purchase: $5 
• At the Door (Day of Event): $8

Buy your tickets now!

 
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Posted on April 15, 2026

Educators Rising activities equip TCA students with key teaching skills

Lincoln Public Schools students will show people how they plan to teach with purpose and lead with passion in their future classrooms at a national event this summer.
 
Thirteen students at The Career Academy earned trips to the Educators Rising National Conference at the organization’s recent state contest. JoJo Church, Alena Lococo, Payton Jurgensen, Marin Olson, Katie Thomas, Claire Neth, Aubree Lawrey, Molly Hansen, Abigail Manley, Akira Moody, Eli Haake, Nicole Rodriguez Delgado and Layla Johnson captured national bids.
 
Rodriguez Delgado said she was looking forward to expanding her large list of friends who are interested in the teaching profession. The senior will attend the national conference for the first time in June after enjoying state-level success. She and Jurgensen teamed up to finish second in the varsity division of the Researching Learning Challenges contest.
 
“Educators Rising brings a community that we can learn from,” Rodriguez Delgado said. “During these events, there are always breakout sessions, and it is a great way to meet new people and make friendly connections. During the breakout sessions, we learn about ways to differentiate our teaching, how we can incorporate gamification, build connections with students, use technology and encourage physical education.”
 
Jame Cartwright leads early childhood education classes at TCA and advises the focus program’s Educators Rising chapter. She is also an at-large member of the Nebraska Educators Rising Board of Directors. The organization’s goal is to provide more opportunities for high school students to learn about education careers. Their Educators Rising activities equip them with many talents that they will use in their school buildings.
 
Cartwright said it was exciting to watch LPS students excel in their state events. She said the contests promote valuable teaching skills like communication, organization and self-motivation. They also offer chances to build specific knowledge about topics ranging from children’s literature to lesson plan delivery.
 
“The students work really hard on their competition pieces, and it is so rewarding for all of us to see that hard work pay off,” Cartwright said.

 
Lococo experienced the satisfaction of winning a state championship with her work in the varsity Children’s Literature K-3 contest. The senior decided to create a book about her experiences growing up with autism. She wanted to inspire other students by discussing her childhood in a relatable storyline.
 
“I wrote the book to help educate children on autism in a way that’s a bit easier to understand,” Lococo said. “I narrated the story with the thought process of myself when I was a child. I am really looking forward to competing and seeing other people’s books and competitions.”
 
Rodriguez Delgado and Jurgensen focused their Researching Learning Challenges entry on helping students who are either deaf or hard of hearing. They wrote a paper and created a PowerPoint presentation before speaking with judges. Rodriguez Delgado said the preparation and public speaking phases of the contest taught her what it will be like leading her own classroom one day.
 
“It was exciting to do this with a friend, and I felt particularly confident with my information,” Rodriguez Delgado said. “We had brought flashcards with our information, but it was easy to build a more conversational tone than to follow a set of words.”
 
Rodriguez Delgado said participating in competitive events will also help her become a stronger candidate for education positions. Educators Rising students learn how to prepare for job interviews, create teaching materials and network with current professionals. These workplace skills give them a professional edge that can make a difference in the hiring process.
 
“It is important to show the judges that you know what you’re talking about by referencing something from your portfolio, building on your answers and asking questions,” Rodriguez Delgado said.
 
The TCA delegation will rely on that expertise in Portland, Ore. Multiple TCA students have taken part in more than one state conference, and Jurgensen, Neth, Lawrey and Hansen have all appeared at nationals before. Cartwright said the four veterans had been role models for their classmates by showcasing good leadership skills in their activities.

 
“Once they understand what it takes and that the nationals trip is something they want to go on again, they are pretty motivated to do well,” Cartwright said.
 
Lococo said her Educators Rising experiences had encouraged her to enter the teaching pipeline. She felt all LPS students would benefit from the life skills that the organization provides throughout the year.
 
“I enjoy being able to make connections with people from other schools, especially when they’re in the same competition that I am,” Lococo said.

2026 TCA State Educators Rising Results

Education and Training Achievement Awards: Madison Arriola, Molly Hansen, Aubree Lawrey, Payton Jurgensen, Nicole Rodriguez Delgado, Claire Neth
Varsity Interactive Bulletin Board – Elementary: JoJo Church (Blue Ribbon)
Varsity Children’s Literature K-3: Alena Lococo (1st), Payton Jurgensen (3rd)
Varsity Children’s Literature Pre-K: Marin Olson and Katie Thomas (tied 2nd)
Varsity Ethical Dilemma: Izabella Clark, Natalie Mullin, Alexis Onstott, Jayson Thode (7th)
Varsity Inside our Schools: Claire Neth, Aubree Lawrey, Molly Hansen (2nd)
Varsity Job Interview: Abigail Manley (10th)
Varsity Lesson Planning and Delivery – Career and Technical Education: Akira Moody (2nd)
Varsity Lesson Planning and Delivery – Science, Technology, Engineering, Math: Eli Haake (2nd)
Varsity Public Service Announcement – Teacher Recruitment: JoJo Church, Marin Olson, Katie Thomas (2nd)
Varsity Researching Learning Challenges: Payton Jurgensen and Nicole Rodriguez Delgado (2nd); Layla Johnson and Abigail Manley (4th)
 
Prepare for your future with Lincoln Public Schools. Explore our Career and Technical Education student organizations and discover how to get involved.
 
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Posted on April 15, 2026

Slam Dunk: North Star, Southwest teams secure historic state basketball titles

North Star and Southwest students netted more than just gold medals this winter when they claimed state basketball championships for their high schools.
 
The North Star girls basketball and Southwest boys basketball teams both capped their seasons with Class A state titles at Pinnacle Bank Arena. The Navigators earned the school’s first state championship in any team sport when they defeated Omaha North 51-35. North Star became the first LPS school to win the Class A girls title since Southwest accomplished the feat in 2017.
 
Southwest captured the school’s first boys basketball title by stopping Papillion-La Vista South 57-53. The Silver Hawks became the first LPS boys basketball program to win the Class A prize since Lincoln High in 2003. Southwest’s only other appearance in the championship game came in 2009.
 
Students and coaches from both squads said they picked up many life lessons from their historic title journeys. North Star head coach Tommy Johnson and senior Kendall said the basketball court taught the Navigators about tenacity, problem solving and leaning on one another.
 
“From basketball, I’ve learned so much about myself as a player and as a person,” Kendall said. “I’ve learned that you can achieve anything you put your mind to as long as you put in the work. I also feel like basketball has gotten me through a lot of things in life and is a way for me to be myself.”
 
“They can learn about life in a fun, competitive way, and in an environment that isn’t as stressful as the adult world,” Johnson said. “They can literally just learn true life skills like communication and networking and getting to know people.”

 
Southwest head coach Alex Bahe and senior Le’Vonte said the Silver Hawks discovered the importance of unity and cooperation from their experiences. They said all 14 varsity players boosted the program throughout the season.
 
“Being on the basketball team helped me learn to step up in my role and succeed in it,” Le’Vonte said. “Sometimes you have to learn how to work as a team and do whatever it takes to win. This was a good life lesson because being humble is important. You may be able to do something yourself, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a better outcome working together with a team.”
 
“I think this group truly understood the value of togetherness, embracing roles and a willingness to sacrifice for one another,” Bahe said. “No one put themselves above the team, and there was a clear understanding of how each individual uniquely contributed to our success.”

 
Family and Community Engagement is one of the key prongs of the 2024-29 LPS Strategic Plan because of the vital connections it produces. Kendall and Le’Vonte both said the encouragement from fans this year boosted everyone's confidence on their teams. Both schools had large crowds at many games.
 
“I’ve always felt like North Star has the best student section and fan base in Lincoln,” Kendall said. “Everyone shows out at all the games and makes it such a fun environment. Especially at state, I feel like the North Star community really showed up and showed out for us. All the teachers, staff, students, parents and friends really made my four years memorable.”
 
“The support that my teammates and I got from all friends and family was unmatched,” Le’Vonte said. “They showed up to every game cheering the loudest even when things weren’t going our way. The team really needed the fans as much as we needed each other, and I can’t thank them enough for being there for us.”
 
Bahe and Kendall both said the family atmosphere within their locker rooms also made a difference. Both groups had veteran leaders who served as mentors for younger players. They promised each other that everyone would work hard towards their championship goals. Along the way, they created lifelong friendships through their time at practices and games.
 
“That shared purpose and togetherness guided us all season and served as constant motivation,” Bahe said. “More than any team I’ve coached at Southwest, this group fully embraced our program identity.”
 
“No matter what I go through, I know I can get through it and I have a support system that will be there for me no matter what, especially my LNS girls basketball community,” Kendall said.

 
Johnson took over North Star’s program in July 2021 and began setting a foundation for the team’s historic run. He said school activities like basketball offer students many tools they can use to improve their futures. He said being involved as a coach has also changed his own outlook on life.
 
“When I first came here, I was pretty transactional. Let’s find ways to win,” Johnson said. “And then with these girls, getting to know them and watching them grow, I became more transformational. Now, it’s like, we’ve figured out how to win in high school, but how can I help you learn to win at the next level? How can I help you learn how to win in life?
 
“What are the skill sets that will help them both on and off the court so they can have a better future? That’s the most important thing.”
 
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Posted on April 15, 2026

Elliott educators inspire future special education teachers at UNL

Elliott Elementary School staff members inspired future educators with words of encouragement this spring during a trip to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
 
Seven leaders on the school’s special education team visited with more than three dozen UNL students at Barkley Memorial Center. Former Elliott teacher and current UNL lecturer Erin Pfister arranged the event for her class. Elliott special education teachers Becca Volker, Hanna Sherman, Kiran Bahl, Jen Steinheider and Melissa Fenton answered questions alongside school psychologist Brandon Ee and behavior interventionist Caleb Lemon.
 
UNL student Brad Hoffman soaked up valuable information in the Special Education 201: Introduction to Special Education class. He is participating in the Para Pathway to Teaching (PPT) program, which is a partnership between Lincoln Public Schools and UNL. The PPT launched in 2023 to help LPS paraeducators obtain their special education teaching endorsements.
 
Hoffman is currently working as a paraeducator at Mickle Middle School. He said it was motivating to watch Elliott professionals speak about their work.
 
“Listening to the Elliott special education team made me remember why I want to get into the special education field,” Hoffman said. “You could hear their passion when they responded to questions and gave detailed answers.”

 
Pfister taught special education classes at Elliott from 2003-08 and has remained friends with many of her former co-workers. She said the panel was a great opportunity to inform future educators about effective instructional and behavior management techniques.
 
“I brought in the most effective elementary special education team I know to discuss working as a team to meet the needs of students,” Pfister said. “Sometimes my students feel overwhelmed by all of the information they learn about special education, and they often envision themselves being the only person responsible for the student. The Elliott team showed them that they are not alone and that a great team can make all the difference for students with significant needs.”
 
All seven panelists emphasized to the Huskers that special education is not meant to be a solo profession. They said it was important to seek help from and offer encouragement to co-workers throughout the school day. They felt that having a two-way street of support was uplifting for both students and staff.
 
“I think that’s why we go at this with a team approach and a team mindset,” Sherman said. “We don’t want anyone to feel that they’re alone in this.”
 
“It took me a while in my career to figure out how important it was not to try to do it all,” Steinheider said. “That was just a learning curve. I wish I had learned earlier how many resources are available and that it’s okay to ask for help every single day. I didn’t do it as much as I should have earlier, and now I do. It makes a big difference for the kids.”

 
Bahl said that unity-based approach has spread throughout the entire building. She began teaching at LPS in 1996 and has watched the overall special education philosophy change over that time. Instead of keeping special education students in separate sections of their schools, they are now integrated into classrooms, cafeterias and other campus areas.
 
“Now, it’s just this huge collaboration of they’re everyone’s students,” Bahl said. “It makes a difference in the way everything runs.”
 
The Owls said that encompassing approach benefits students in many ways. Teachers can monitor their classroom progress more effectively because they receive information from multiple sources. They also can share data that allows the entire special education team to create detailed plans for each person.
 
Ee said that type of communication has created a large amount of trust at Elliott. Teammates are willing to share their strengths because they believe in everyone’s abilities. Some are more proficient in compiling data spreadsheets, while others are skilled in forming personalized lessons in subjects like math or reading.
 
“Specific to this team, I think we know each other’s roles really well,” Ee said. “I think we have really well-defined roles.”

 
Pfister said that was one of the main reasons why she wanted the Owls to come to UNL.
 
“I reached out because the Elliott team is exceptionally strong in collaboration and flexible service delivery,” Pfister said. “This semester’s class includes many elementary and special education teachers, and I want them to learn from a team that works well together.”
 
Hoffman said he enjoyed learning about instructional practices from the Elliott professionals. He was grateful to listen to them provide their expertise to future teachers like himself.
 
“It is important for current teachers to share their experiences and stories in classrooms like this because it helps the students in the classroom to decide if special education is truly where they belong, or if they feel like they would maybe benefit in a different role,” Hoffman said. “They give us great advice and stories that help us make our decisions and discover the passion that we have for working with students within the special education realm.”
 
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Posted on April 15, 2026

Saratoga, Kloefkorn students bring heroic stories to life with art projects

Saratoga Elementary School and Kloefkorn Elementary School students came up with heroic ideas this winter when they explored the concept of role models in their art classes.
 
The Stars and Cubs created artwork representing what the theme of “Heroes” means to them. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade began making sculptures, posters, paintings and comic books of their favorite real-life or fictional heroes in January. They developed ideas, established plans of action and found creative solutions to their artistic assignments throughout the third quarter.
 
Fifth graders Lydia and Acacia worked together at one of the tables in Saratoga’s art room. Acacia decorated a Wonder Woman poster with paint, glitter and pencil markings, and Lydia designed clothes to place on a figurine of the famous superhero. Lydia said it was exciting to work on a project about a character she looks up to.
 
“I chose her because she’s a role model for all the girls and women to do whatever they want,” Lydia said.

 
Across the room, Ka’Avontae sketched the outline of a ninja stick man who saves people from disasters. He liked using his imagination to come up with his custom-made superhero.
 
“I’ve mostly liked the drawing and how I get to create it,” Ka’Avontae said. “It’s fun to do.”
 
Shelby Swanson said she has enjoyed watching Stars from all grade levels participate in the project. Swanson leads art classes at both Saratoga and Norwood Park. She said fifth graders are old enough to analyze the who, what, when, where, why and how questions about their heroes.
 
“The best thing is seeing them being creative and reflecting on the whole concept of heroes,” Swanson said. “What makes a hero? Is it a superhero that you see in the movies? Is it someone at home, like a parent or a sibling? This class has come up with some big ideas about that, and it’s really fun to see them take those ideas and run with them.”
 
Kloefkorn fourth graders Kwaku, Coralee, Madison and Desiree explored similar themes with art teacher Audrey Jurek. They said it was fun to realize that everyone they met could become a role model for other people.
 
“I learned that anyone can be a hero,” Kwaku said.
 
“I learned that we all have different stories, and we can all be heroes,” Coralee said.

 
Madison and Desiree both decided to make glitter-covered trophies and medals. Madison placed the word ‘determined’ on her medal and created a first-place trophy to go with it. Desiree engraved the words ‘number one’ and ‘brave’ on her artworks.
 
“First, I thought of superheroes, and then I thought that all superheroes have to be determined to do what’s right,” Madison said. “Everybody deserves a first-place trophy because everybody does something right in their life.”
 
“My trophy has ‘number one’ on it, because everybody can be a first-place winner, and then ‘brave,’ because everybody can be brave,” Desiree said.
 
Jurek updated the heroes unit for LPS art teachers last summer. She said her favorite part of the project is when students present their thoughtful artworks to their classmates, peers and families. Kloefkorn held a schoolwide art show in late March that let the Cubs showcase their ideas to hundreds of people.
 
“It’s super rewarding,” Jurek said. “I get to learn so much about my students.”
 
Jurek said her top educational goal is teaching students about the importance of process over product during the year. Each Cub has the freedom to pick their own artistic designs that fit the overall theme. They then produce personal statements giving details about how and why they developed their plans.
 
“My students in third, fourth and fifth grade, especially, have access to all of the materials in the art room all the time, so they’re coming up with their own project ideas that are connected to the theme,” Jurek said. “The basis for this is student voice and student choice, because their artwork is more meaningful when it’s connected to them and their lives and their interests. It’s also teaching them how to make meaningful art and how to talk about it.”

 
Saratoga students Olivia said she gained several life skills through a similar organizational method. She and her friends Elainna and Kailani made clay artworks of Superman, Superwoman and fellow comic book character Deadpool. They looked up information about their superheroes, found digital logos for each person and shared encouragement at their table.
 
“I learned that you kind of have to work together, or else everything won’t work out,” Olivia said.
 
Lydia and Madison said they also realized how much persistence matters. Lydia spent one class period experimenting with different styles of fabric before settling on her clothes for Wonder Woman. Madison overcame her initial hesitation about putting glitter on her medal before deciding it would make a better product.
 
“I’ve learned that if you do anything, you get better at it,” Lydia said.
 
“Some people are nervous to do things that they believe in, and you just have to go for it sometimes,” Madison said.

 
Swanson and Jurek said they were proud to watch the Stars and Cubs bring artistic heroes to life in their classrooms.
 
“They’ve been really passionate about this, which has been fun for me to see,” Swanson said. “I think it’s been a good project for them to work on.”
 
“Students are doing so much more in art classrooms than people realize,” Jurek said. “Students are capable of so much if given the tools, space and guidance.”
 
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Posted on April 15, 2026

CASNR partnership helps Rockets reach new scientific frontiers

Northeast High School students expanded their arteries of academic knowledge this semester by studying fresh specimens of animal organs.
 
Members of the Medical Terminology course dissected pig hearts during a hands-on activity in their science laboratory. A partnership between Lincoln Public Schools and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) made the experience possible for the Rockets. Pig hearts are valuable to study in medical classes because they are similar in size and function to human hearts.
 
Northeast senior McKinley spent the morning working at one of the science lab tables. She and her lab partners used scalpels and scissors to examine the pericardium, myocardium and ventricles of their hearts. She said it was fun to get a firsthand look at fresh tissue.
 
“I really enjoyed how you got to be hands-on and see inside the heart and get to look at everything inside it,” McKinley said. “You didn’t have to worry about messing anything up or getting anything wrong. You just had freedom to explore and learn.”

At another table, lab partners Lauren and Camden marveled at the details that they found in their organ. They carefully peeled back layers of tissue to inspect blood vessels and cardiac muscles. It was the first time either of them had investigated something as large as a pig heart.
 
“The intricacy of the heart was just really cool to dig into,” Camden said. “It was neat to look at all of the pieces and parts.”
 
“Seeing the different structures and how everything works together to make a functioning system was really fun,” Lauren said. “I liked doing this.”

 
Northeast science teacher Ellen Odson has been guiding LPS students since 2011. She said the pig dissection lesson was a valuable teaching tool for many Rockets. McKinley is planning to work in surgical technology after graduating from college, and Lauren and Camden are both interested in pursuing similar medical careers.
 
“I think it’s good for students who are going into the medical profession to see how well they handle a fresh specimen,” Odson said. “A lot of them have maybe done smaller dissections in middle school, but they haven’t had anything that wasn’t preserved. We got these specimens last week from UNL, so to have something where it can come from the animal to us so soon isn’t something that happens a lot in a high school lab.”
 
Northeast received fresh pig hearts thanks to the expanded partnership between LPS and CASNR. LPS/CASNR Early College and Career Pathways Coordinator Bailey Feit works with LPS curriculum specialists on food, energy, water and societal systems (FEWSS) topics. She then provides CASNR-based lessons that help students at all LPS buildings reach their college, research and career goals.
 
Odson said the agreement has given the Rockets world-class academic opportunities. Feit brought a cow heart from the UNL Animal Science Meat Laboratory to students this past fall, and she secured five pig hearts from the university for this spring’s Medical Terminology class.
 
Pig hearts are the most commonly dissected mammalian hearts. Pig and human hearts both contain four chambers, four valves and an aorta, which makes them ideal for studying the human circulatory system.
 
“Having Bailey be able to communicate and partner with UNL to say, ‘Hey, this is what I have available. What works for you?’ is really, really nice,” Odson said. “We’re not having to rely on finding specimens from other places.”

 
Odson said students were also able to learn more scientific material by working on fresh specimens. Preserved animal organs are embalmed and often have stiff and discolored tissues. Fresh organs offer superior tissue flexibility and showcase accurate colors and textures, which help people learn more about their true nature.
 
“A lot of times, high schools work with preserved specimens,” Odson said. “That would have been an option, but it’s a very different experience for the students.”
 
McKinley felt the advanced dissection would give her a good head start on college. She was happy to discover many noteworthy features as her team worked through the heart’s layers.
 
“There were a lot of surprises,” McKinley said. “Some of the different textures surprised me for sure. The smell was weird, but other than that, it was really fun.”
 
Feit said those reactions are why she likes working with LPS students. She encouraged each group as she watched them uncover medical information in real time.
 
“A lot of them have never been able to touch real tissue and muscle before,” Feit said. “I think a lot of them were surprised by how tough it was to cut open. They might see television shows or YouTube videos of a doctor just slicing right through thick skin, and it looks so easy. For them to have a chance to actually feel that experience is really eye-opening for them.”
 
Odson said she believes the CASNR partnership will convince even more Northeast students to consider enrolling in future science courses.
 
“It’s a selling point for us,” Odson said. “There aren’t a lot of other classes that get to do hands-on things like this with fresh animal specimens.”

Explore more ways that LPS science classes equip students with vital skills and information.
 
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Posted on April 13, 2026

Extra Mile Walk – Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.

Go the extra mile – help combat food insecurity by supporting the Food Bank of Lincoln’s BackPack program. Lincoln Public Schools and the Food Bank of Lincoln invite you to help raise money for the program during the 18th annual Extra Mile Walk.

Join us for the Extra Mile Walk

Saturday, April 25, 2026, 9:30 a.m.
UBT Stadium at Northwest High School (1111 NW 48th St.)
This year, join us for family-friendly music, games, LPS mascots and food trucks.
Please be sure to wear tennis shoes and leave your furry friends at home!

Visit the Food Bank of Lincoln’s website for details about the 2026 Extra Mile Walk.

Donate now

There are two ways you can help:

• Make an online donation.
• Contact your school or LPS department captain to give via cash or check. 

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Posted on April 13, 2026

From the Ground Up: How Cade shaped collaborative culture at Northwest

Northwest High School senior Cade has used a healthy blend of intelligence, involvement and encouragement to become a role model for every Falcon on campus.
 
Cade’s humble and hardworking personality has helped him earn respect and admiration from hundreds of his peers. He has won state awards for his technical expertise in theater productions, qualified for the state tennis meet and is an active member of National Honor Society. He has also gained a head start on his future medical career in the Bryan College of Health Sciences Focus Program.

 
Cade began his Lincoln Public Schools career at Kooser Elementary School and Schoo Middle School. He chose to enroll at Northwest because he wanted to help build a solid foundation for future Falcons. The Class of 2026 is the first group of students to attend Northwest all four years of high school.
 
“I’m not in the Northwest district, but I decided to opt in here because I thought it was cool to start at a new school and be able to start it from the ground up,” Cade said. “I really like it here. I feel like this school is really collaborative. We can all work together very well.”
 
Northwest Principal Cedric Cooper said he has been impressed with Cade’s commitment to making everyone’s lives better. He has taken multiple upper-level courses in subjects like math and science, overcome health issues and held leadership positions in his activities. He is also quick to offer uplifting reassurance to classmates and friends.
 
“His perseverance, involvement and positive attitude make him a deserving candidate for recognition,” Cooper said. “Cade is not just a remarkable student. He inspires his peers to strive for excellence.”

 
Northwest Associate Principal Heather Steiner first met Cade when she was teaching math classes at Schoo. She watched him use his mathematical abilities to become a mentor for many Skyhawks. She said that willingness to put others before himself has allowed him to influence the same number of Falcons.
 
“It’s been fun watching him grow and becoming a young man and taking off on his journey,” Steiner said. “It’s been really cool. I had a former colleague of mine talk to me once about value hunters, and kids who seek to put value in other people’s lives. That’s Cade.”

 
The Bryan College of Health Sciences Focus Program is one place Cade has influenced others. The focus program is embedded in Northwest’s building and includes a comprehensive list of health care-based classes. Cade has applied for collegiate pre-medical programs and plans to become a neurologist.
 
“I’ve always wanted to go into health care,” Cade said. “I didn’t always know exactly what I wanted to do, but I feel like the focus program has helped me see all of the different sides of health care and what it means to be a provider. It’s really nice.”
 
Cade has extended his classroom work ethic beyond the focus program. He is a Nebraska School Activities Association Academic All-State Award recipient and has been a mainstay on Northwest’s Honor Roll. He has taken differentiated and Advanced Placement courses in a variety of subjects, which helped him meet people with many interests and pursuits.
 
“I think if we would look back at his classes, we’d see that he doesn’t take easy classes,” Steiner said. “He’s always taking some of the diff and AP courses and the dual credit courses. He pushes himself to try new things.”

 
Cade has also been a key member of the school’s theater productions. His contributions come in the auditorium’s control room, which gives him a bird’s-eye view of the entire stage and seating area. He ensures everyone enjoys Northwest’s one-act plays and spring musicals by adjusting microphones' volume and tone and overseeing sound effects.
 
State theater leaders have noticed Cade’s technical expertise. He earned a Class A Outstanding Technical Crew Member Award for his state play production work this past fall. He also helped Northwest win Class A Outstanding Technical Crew honors at the past two state contests.
 
Steiner said Cade’s ability to gather and process information has benefited the entire school. He has been involved in groups that have proposed ideas for events like Homecoming, pep rallies and focus program outreach sessions.
 
“He’s great at providing input and suggestions of things to think about,” Steiner said. “What can we do next, or is there something we can improve? He can provide insights into ways that we can help all of our students.”
 
Cade said he has enjoyed creating lifelong connections at Northwest. Librarians, teachers and students all gave warm smiles to him as he walked through the building one afternoon, which showcased his talent for making friends.
 
“It’s nice being in a smaller school, because I do see a lot of the same people in the hallways and classrooms and in activities outside of school,” Cade said. “I think it helps create stronger bonds.”

 
Steiner said she believes Cade has many bright moments waiting for him after graduation. She felt he would continue to be a healthy role model for others in college, medical school and beyond.
 
“He’s going to do fantastic,” Steiner said. “He’s a hard worker. He takes any challenge in stride and pushes through. He’s going to do an amazing job in his future.”
 
Are you the proud family of a graduating LPS senior? Find everything you need to prepare for the big day, including ceremony dates, times and venue locations. View the 2026 Graduation Schedule and Details.
 
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Posted on April 13, 2026

Colin takes command of his future through AFJROTC

Northeast High School senior Colin fuels his passion for aerospace science in a high-flying focus program on campus.
 
Colin uses his organizational and management skills to become a leader in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) program. He traveled to Offutt Air Force Base, helped with community service projects and guided fellow cadets through their fall marching drill performances. He is currently restructuring the internal awards and decorations system used by the Lincoln Public Schools AFJROTC unit.
 
Colin said he is thankful for his involvement with AFJROTC. He said the program has been responsible for a large amount of personal growth over the past four years – leading to many life-changing opportunities.
 
“There’s been a lot of leadership development and a lot of character development,” Colin said. “It’s given me a chance to learn about myself a lot more and learn the standard of what to do and what not to do. With ROTC you kind of represent everybody, so if you act up, it goes on everybody else, too, so it teaches you to take accountability for your actions.”

 
Retired Master Sergeant Justin Twilley said he has been impressed with Colin’s emergence as a mentor to many fellow cadets. He is serving as a teaching assistant this semester and has encouraged other students with their classroom and community responsibilities.
 
“Colin has had some of the most rapid development of his leadership skills and his focus towards management of programs that I’ve seen,” Twilley said. “He is motivated and willing to excel, and he continuously looks for new ways to do so.”
 
Colin is part of a focus program that strives to develop citizens of character through an array of activities. Students complete aerospace science classes, perform color guard duties at LPS events and go on field trips across eastern Nebraska. They also take part in drill team, archery and physical fitness competitions, donate time to community service initiatives and learn personal skills such as teamwork and responsibility.
 
Colin joined the AFJROTC unit in 2022 because he was interested in an Air Force career. Focus program graduates also enroll in colleges and universities, attend trade schools and enter the workforce after they leave LPS.
 
Colin said he has enjoyed meeting fellow cadets in classes and activities. Twilley teaches aerospace science courses at Northeast High School, but students from all eight LPS high schools are enrolled in the program.
 
“A lot of my friends are from ROTC,” Colin said. “The people here are really nice, and the sergeants that we’ve had throughout the years have been good too. I’ve gotten a lot out of being here in the program.”

 
Colin said one of his favorite experiences came last year when he was selected to travel to Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. He and several other cadets were invited to climb aboard a KC-135 aircraft as it prepared for a refueling mission. They watched with wonderment as the pilot directed the airplane off the runway, provided fuel to another aircraft and returned safely to the base during the one-hour trip.
 
“If I hadn’t joined ROTC, I never would have been on one of those,” Colin said. “It was pretty cool. It was my first time being on a plane ever, so to have my first time on a plane get to be on a military plane was really neat.”
 
Twilley, a 20-year Air Force veteran, has watched Colin perform equally well in the academic environment. Twilley told the cadets one morning that they would have 30 seconds to prepare an impromptu speech on a subject chosen by their classmates. When Colin learned he would be tasked with talking about bugs, he gathered his thoughts and presented information about a variety of insects at the front of the room.
 
Colin is now using those analytical abilities as part of a major project. The LPS unit sponsors an awards and decorations program that is designed to foster morale and recognize student achievements. Cadets can receive ribbons, medals, certificates and scholarships for their efforts throughout their AFJROTC tenure. Unit leaders acknowledge them for academic, leadership and community service accomplishments.

 
Twilley asked Colin this past fall to begin restructuring the local unit’s recognition system. Even though the project did not have to begin until the spring semester, Twilley noticed Colin working on the initial research well in advance of that starting date.
 
“He is one of my finest cadets,” Twilley said.
 
Colin said he would encourage other LPS students to consider joining AFJROTC. He was part of a welcoming crew of cadets who recently visited with eighth graders at Northeast. They shared their experiences as part of an outreach effort for the high-flying focus program.
 
“I would tell anybody to apply, because it’s worth it,” Colin said. “If they join and then decide not to continue, that’s fine, but if they want to stick through it, see where it takes you. There are a lot of opportunities that you’re never going to get in other programs if you’re not in ROTC.”
 
Interested in following Colin’s lead in the AFJROTC arena? Discover how to soar with our AFJROTC program today.
 
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Posted on April 10, 2026

Celebrate Clinton Elementary’s 100th Anniversary – April 10, 2026

Clinton Elementary School is hitting the century mark and hosting a stellar celebration of its rich history. 

Lincoln Public Schools invites staff, students, alumni and community members to an open house on Friday, April 10, at 4:30 p.m. to commemorate the Comets’ special milestone.

The event will be hosted at Clinton, located at 1520 N. 29th St. 

The celebration will include tours, refreshments and an opportunity to snag some Comet swag.

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Posted on April 07, 2026

TeamMates of the Month: Seth and Brayden

Many things lead Seth to describe his mentee, Brayden, as committed. One of them is his willingness to go all in with whatever he does.

“From sixth grade to now, he’s had about 14 different hobbies. But I feel like every time he finds one, he dives headfirst into it, and he commits to what he’s doing. It was all sports in middle school. Now he’s doing photography for all the basketball games and all of the athletic events here at the school.”

Brayden says that Seth’s willingness to travel alongside during these changes shows how supportive he is.

“I think it goes two ways. I mean, he was supportive on all 14 of my hobbies.”

Seth describes meeting a middle school Brayden who was timid, but now has what he calls the “typical orneriness of a high school boy.” What does he mean by orneriness?

“It's playing jokes. It's respectable banter here at school. I can watch him go back and forth with the staff here.” 

For Seth, who grew up in a small town where everyone knows everyone, Southwest High School seemed big enough for a kid to get lost in the crowd. He didn’t want that to happen to Brayden.

“I think that was a perk for him in the TeamMates program; it helped him develop those relationships with the school staff. We’d check into the office and check out in the office so they knew us by name.”

That orneriness is also about learning the edge of the boundaries between getting into trouble or staying out of it. Brayden is clear-eyed about that.

“I want to know. Where’s that line? You might need to get shocked by the electrical fence here and there, but that lets you know where it is.”

And Seth kept showing up, every Friday since middle school, to meet and often to shoot hoops. That’s what made Zoom mentoring during the pandemic so hard – no basketball. For Brayden, the basketball was key.

“I think the basketball side of things really helped. We were focused on shooting, but then it got to a point where I was so comfortable that I would be talking about my problems without even realizing, because we were just playing basketball.”

After graduation, Brayden will attend Southeast Community College in Milford to study auto body, something he didn’t want to tell Seth unless he got accepted. He’s excited and so is Seth.

Posted on April 07, 2026

LPS students secure medals at state speech, debate tournaments

Lincoln Public Schools students heard their names called early and often during awards ceremonies at the 2026 state speech and debate tournaments.
 
Competitors from East, Lincoln High, North Star, Southeast and Southwest returned home from their state events with medals. They squared off against fellow contestants in both individual and group categories.
 
Southeast head debate coach Steven Dosskey said the activities gave participants many academic and prosocial benefits. They learned about teamwork, critical thinking, work ethic and organization during their time in front of judges.
 
“As a coach, I continue to see the immense value of helping students learn how to analyze the world around them with objectivity, thoughtfulness and discernment,” Dosskey said.
 
East High School
 
East clinched the program’s fourth straight Class A state speech championship with a balanced scoring approach. The Spartans won medals in all ten events and finished the day with 312 team points.
 
Claire Rooney, Zach Johannes, Nolan Caldwell, Belinda Qiao and Gavin Foust guided the squad with state championship performances. Ethan Phan, Charlie Sanchez-Masi, Amelia Shupbach, Cora Thompson, Wade Combs, Andrea Hu, Juho Kim, Cooper Doell, Sawyer Shaner and Sloane Donahoo also netted medals for the Spartans.

 
Rooney and Johannes led East with a pair of gold medals. The two Spartans teamed up to win the Duo Interpretation contest, and Johannes added a title in the Oral Interpretation of Serious Prose category. Rooney soared to the top of the Oral Interpretation of Poetry standings, and she added a second-place medal in the Informative Speaking contest.
 
Rooney said she gained lifelong memories from performing alongside Johannes this season. She said their friendship helped them finish in first place.
 
“The best part about Zach and I’s duo is that we are best friends,” Rooney said. “We move seamlessly together and have incredible chemistry while performing because we simply love being together. We were able to practice so much because it didn’t feel like a chore. It simply felt like I was hanging out with my friend and creating art together.”
 
Rooney said she had fun spending time with all of the Spartans. She said the group’s dedication had made a deep impression on her.
 
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned from our speech team is what true work ethic is,” Rooney said. “Our team is in the basement every day after school until about 6 p.m. practicing. Whether it be peer coaching or working with our actual coaches, we are always doing something to better our speeches.”
 
Members of East’s debate squad used the same strategy to achieve state success. The Spartans placed second in team standings and had medalists in all four events.
 
Arnav Agarwal and Ronav Ganesh won a state title in the Public Forum Debate contest, and Brad Bobaru and Lucas Neamu pocketed second place in the same category. Cora Jones also vaulted East up the leaderboard with a third-place medal in Congressional Debate.
 
Head debate coach John Holen said he was proud of what the Spartans accomplished. Juniors and seniors comprised only 25 percent of this year’s roster, which gave younger students opportunities to step into key debate roles.
 
“It has been fun seeing them develop into more confident advocates and scholars throughout the year,” Holen said.

 
Holen said he watched students become more effective writers, researchers and critical thinkers in their debates. He said the activity also taught them how to disagree while still respecting the other person’s point of view.
 
“We have students with families from around a dozen different countries, a variety of religious backgrounds and a broad spectrum of political beliefs,” Holen said. “Despite this diversity of views and experiences, we are able to find common ground as we work together as a team towards a shared goal.”
 
Lincoln High School
 
Mahshid Farahmand etched her name in Lincoln High’s history books with her second straight state speech medal. Farahmand earned third place in the Oral Interpretation of Serious Prose contest. She became Lincoln High’s first state medalist since 2017 last year when she pocketed sixth place in the same category.
 
Farahmand said she likes participating in speech because of the connections she can build on stage.
 
“Regarding the personal aspects of speech, I enjoy acting in general,” Farahmand said. “I love expressing my feelings and getting to see my audience’s reactions as they follow the story that I share. Any emotion that I get from my audience fuels my performance and motivates me to perform even better.”

 
Lincoln High head speech coach C Meier-Bates said Farahmand’s work ethic, dedication and focus have helped her reach many goals.
 
“She is one of the hardest working individuals I’ve had the pleasure of coaching, and it shows in the incredible amount of success she’s had in just two years,” Meier-Bates said. “This is Mahshid’s second consecutive year in Serious Prose finals at state, which is a huge achievement for anyone, let alone an underclassman. I cannot overstate how competitive high school speech is in Nebraska, so to have her recognized as one of the top three competitors in her sophomore year is amazing.”
 
Farahmand said she has learned about confidence, leadership and sportsmanship from her speech schedule. She said those traits have paid off in other school pursuits.
 
“Being a busy person with many activities and doing speech as one of my main passions, it has taught me important skills such as time management and active communication,” Farahmand said. “Doing many sports, being a student in the International Baccalaureate program and doing speech at the same time is an intense amount of commitment which requires these skills that I have gained.”
 
North Star High School
 
Mabruke Mumade secured the second state medal of her speech career with a sixth-place award in the Persuasive Speaking contest. She earned fifth place in the same event in 2024.
 
North Star head speech coach Alison Finn-Couch said Mumade’s leadership and poise have made her a role model for many people across Nebraska.
 
“She is the kind of young woman who is easy to root for and be proud of because she embodies grace, dedication and curiosity,” Finn-Couch said. “Other teams’ coaches and parents have said that they love her because of how she holds herself in rounds and how kind she is to her competitors. Her placing in persuasive finals is wonderful and we are proud of her for that achievement, but we are more proud of how she carries herself as a young woman.”

Mumade said speech taught her many life skills throughout her career. She said the main lesson for this season was learning that there is always room for improvement.

“A few weeks before districts, I finally made the decision to rewrite my oratory despite my worries of having to start over, and it ended up all working out in the end!” Mumade said. “This lesson will continue to serve its purpose in all areas in my life, reminding me to always strive to do better.”

 
Finn-Couch said the 2025-26 season featured the largest team roster in recent memory. The squad also celebrated a record number of attendees at practices, top novices at meets and individuals who qualified for finals.
 
“More importantly, we had the most supportive group of people who are more excited for each other’s success than their own,” Finn-Couch said. “Each student came to practice eager for feedback and how to grow as a speaker.”
 
Southeast High School
 
Elise and Marin Weisser highlighted Southeast’s debate tournament with gold and silver medals in the Congressional Debate contest. Elise won the state championship and Marin earned second place in the category.
 
Both sisters said they enjoyed being teammates this year. They felt their experiences prepared them well for life after high school.
 
“Debate has taught me so many life skills and has helped me grow a lot as a person,” Marin said. “I have struggled with anxiety around public speaking and confidence surrounding that pretty much my whole life, and while I still have those feelings from time to time, debate has allowed me to grow my self-confidence in my skills. On top of that, I think my ability to communicate with others effectively has been a really important skill that I have gained.”
 
“I feel as though I have learned many life skills from debate over the last few years, but especially this past season,” Elise said. “I was lucky enough to step into the team captain role, which helped me advance my leadership and teamwork skills. Overall, debate has given me so much confidence and knowledge and has really helped me find out who I am.”

 
Dosskey said he was proud to watch the sisters excel at state. He said it was a priceless memory to watch their faces when they realized they would receive first and second place.
 
“Elise and Marin have not only been incredibly diligent and determined in their improvement as debaters, they’ve also done a tremendous job of helping create an encouraging and inclusive culture within our team that makes waves far beyond their own performance,” Dosskey said. “They’ve helped create a rising tide that has certainly lifted all boats across our team.”
 
Sydney Kjeldgaard paced Southeast’s speech squad with a fifth-place medal in Informative Speaking. She said it was fun to present material to audiences on the topic of trauma bonding.
 
“I loved taking something complex and making it feel clear and relatable,” Kjeldgaard said. “Performing it meant a lot to me because it felt like more than just giving a speech. It felt like helping people understand something they might not have had words for before.”

 
Kjeldgaard and Elise both said they were grateful for their time in their speech and debate activities.
 
“Speech has taught me how to be confident in my voice, even when I’m nervous,” Kjeldgaard said. “It’s helped me think on my feet, connect with people and trust myself in high-pressure moments.”
 
“Debate has led me to make many connections and I’ll be forever thankful for everyone I’ve met,” Elise said. “Some of my closest friends have come from the Nebraska debate community, so it was amazing to compete with all of them for one of the last times.”
 
Southwest High School
 
Southwest used medal-winning performances from six speech students to finish fourth in team standings. Grant Johnson and Audrey Haugen each won two state medals, and Claire Timperley, Cayson Witt, Danielle Ibe-Ikechi and Lyra Walsch each captured one medal.
 
Johnson guided the squad with a second-place finish in the Oral Interpretation of Serious Prose category. He also teamed up with Haugen, Witte, Ibe-Ikechi and Walsch in the Oral Interpretation of Drama contest.
 
Southwest tied with Southeast for third place at state debate. Addison Watchorn (eighth place) and Ean Munn (ninth) each finished in the top ten of the Congressional Debate contest.

2026 Class A State Speech Team Results

Lincoln East 312, Millard North 214, Millard West 58, Lincoln Southwest 54, Omaha Marian 36, North Platte 36, Bellevue West 36, Gretna East 34, Norris 28, Kearney 22, Papillion-La Vista South 20, Lincoln High 16, Lincoln Southeast 12, Omaha Creighton Prep 12, Lincoln North Star 10

East High School Results

Duo Interpretation: Claire Rooney, Zach Johannes (1st), Cora Thompson, Wade Combs (4th)
Entertainment Speaking: Nolan Caldwell (1st), Gavin Foust (2nd)
Extemporaneous Speaking: Charlie Sanchez-Masi (2nd), Belinda Qiao (3rd)
Informative Speaking: Belinda Qiao (1st), Claire Rooney (2nd)
Oral Interpretation of Drama: Cooper Doell, Cora Thompson, Sawyer Shaner, Sloane Donahoo, Wade Combs (3rd); Amelia Shupbach, Andrea Hu, Ethan Phan, Juho Kim (6th)
Oral Interpretation of Humorous Prose: Amelia Shupbach (3rd)
Oral Interpretation of Poetry: Claire Rooney (1st), Charlie Sanchez-Masi (4th)
Oral Interpretation of Serious Prose: Zach Johannes (1st)
Persuasive Speaking: Charlie Sanchez-Masi (2nd), Belinda Qiao (3rd)
Program Oral Interpretation: Gavin Foust (1st), Ethan Phan (2nd)

Lincoln High Results

Oral Interpretation of Serious Prose: Mahshid Farahmand (3rd)

North Star High School Results

Persuasive Speaking: Mabruka Mumade (6th)

Southeast High School Results

Informative Speaking: Sydney Kjeldgaard (5th)

Southwest High School Results

Oral Interpretation of Drama: Audrey Haugen, Cayson Witt, Danielle Ibe-Ikechi, Grant Johnson, Cayson Witt, Lyra Walsch (4th)
Oral Interpretation of Serious Prose: Grant Johnson (2nd), Audrey Haugen (6th)
Persuasive Speaking: Claire Timperley (5th)

2026 Class B State Speech Team Results

York 278, Omaha Skutt 144, Wayne 102, Gering 98, Plattsmouth 42, Minden 40, Auburn 28, Aurora 28, Schuyler 24, Sidney 18, DC West 12, Broken Bow 12, Holdrege 12, Elkhorn 12, Central City 10, Columbus Lakeview 10, Scottsbluff 10, Alliance 10, Platteview 10

2026 State Debate Team Results

1) Millard North, 2) Lincoln East, T3) Lincoln Southeast, Lincoln Southwest, 5) Lincoln High

East High School Results

Policy Debate: James Yu, Emery Jobst (semifinalists), Arav Kaushai, Jackson Littrell (semifinalists)
Public Forum Debate: Arnav Agarwal, Ronav Ganesh (1st), Brad Bobaru, Lucas Neamu (2nd), Sukruth Jangala, Shriish Sathish (quarterfinalists), Erin Suh, Josh Ng (quarterfinalists)
Lincoln-Douglas Debate: Jason Granquist (octofinalist)
Congressional Debate: Cora Jones (3rd), Jackson Lynch (14th), Ella Recker (16th), Tristan Saathoff-Salas (18th)

Lincoln High Results

Lincoln-Douglas Debate: Henry Skretta (quarterfinalist)

Southeast High School Results

Lincoln-Douglas Debate: Baran Safa (octofinalist)
Congressional Debate: Elise Weisser (1st), Marin Weisser (2nd), Braxton Weibke (10th)

Southwest High School Results

Public Forum Debate: Mayu Kadiri, Hussein Keshk (semifinalists), Catie Paulk, Madyson DiDomenicis (quarterfinalists)
Lincoln-Douglas Debate: Jase Williams (quarterfinalist), Weili Wang (quarterfinalist)
Congressional Debate: Addison Watchorn (8th), Ean Munn (9th)
 
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Posted on April 06, 2026

LPS students earn coveted world language awards

State officials rewarded Lincoln Public Schools students for their hard work in world language subjects with top-tier recognition this spring.
 
Nebraska Department of Education leaders recognized students from across the state with the Distinguished World Language Scholar Award and Student Language Spotlight Award. Fourteen pupils earned 2026 awards for their work in LPS classrooms. They received their honors during the 2026 Nebraska World Language Week celebration.

Averie Andersen said all Nebraska students can benefit from becoming proficient in other languages. She earned the award in 2025 for her talents in Spanish. She felt this year’s group of recipients would profit in many ways from their efforts.

“I believe learning a world language is crucial for connecting cultures, opening opportunities to form new relationships and gaining knowledge about how the world works,” Andersen said.
 
Teachers nominated students for the Distinguished World Language Scholar Award for their outstanding leadership in language learning. Recipients also demonstrated strong communicative skills, a sustained commitment to language study and an appreciation for world cultures.
 
Student Language Spotlight Award recipients demonstrated evidence of exceptional learning in their world language classrooms. The award celebrates a high level of language proficiency and cultural understanding. Students could receive prizes in artwork, craft, writing, project, audio recording and grammar quiz categories.
 
A committee of experienced world language professionals evaluated submissions for this year’s awards. Students relied on the LPS world language curriculum to achieve their goals. The LPS curriculum includes world language competency-based credits, proficiency targets for each semester of instruction and grading guidelines for speaking, listening, writing and reading.
 
The following students earned 2026 awards. They are listed with their names, award categories, LPS buildings and LPS world language teachers. The list includes students whose families have provided permission for the NDE to release their names and LPS to release their names and photos.

2026 LPS Student Language Spotlight Award Recipients

Chinese Language Learning

Isaac Jaberian Doraji: Writing, Level 1, North Star High School, Chun-Yi Coral Su
Merilyn Ho: Writing, Level 3, North Star High School, Chun-Yi Coral Su
Suzy Hanley: Writing, Level 4, North Star High School, Chun-Yi Coral Su
Uyen Nguyen: Writing, Level 2, North Star High School, Chun-Yi Coral Su

German Language Learning

Eleanor Erickson: Writing, Level 4, Lincoln High, Marissa Wanamaker
Velma Haffey: Project, Level 1, Lincoln High, Marissa Wanamaker
Verity Wegener: Audio Recording, Level 5+, Lincoln High, Marissa Wanamaker

2026 LPS Distinguished World Language Scholar Award – High Honor

Arabic Language Learning

Alaam Ahmed: Arabic Intermediate Mid (Heritage Level 3), Northeast High School, Nael Hijjo
Sajjad Al-Far’Ani: Arabic Intermediate Low (Heritage Level 2), Northeast High School, Nael Hijjo
Wajiha Alhussein: Arabic Intermediate High (Heritage Level 4), Culler Middle School, Nael Hijjo

Chinese Language Learning

Anh Bui: Chinese Novice (Level 1 and 2), North Star High School, Chun-Yi Coral Su

Spanish Language Learning

Ruihan Jiang: Spanish Intermediate Low (Level 3 and 4), Northwest High School, Danielle Fulcher

2026 Distinguished World Language Scholar Award – Honor

Chinese Language Learning

Abby Pham: Chinese Novice (Level 1 and 2), North Star High School, Chun-Yi Coral Su

French Language Learning

Manyiel Manyiel: French Novice (Level 1 and 2), Northwest High School, Jorge Ortega Roman

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Posted on April 06, 2026

LPS students collect verbal victories at German State Convention

Irving Middle School students enjoyed world-sized language experiences this spring during an informative trip to Omaha.
 
Multiple Aardvarks traveled to the University of Nebraska-Omaha for the annual UNO World Language Celebration. The UNO Department of World Languages and Literature hosted the event, which attracted hundreds of students to campus. They took part in a full day of academic-based activities.
 
Irving eighth grader Juan said he was happy to attend with others from his German class. In addition to meeting fellow world language enthusiasts from across the state, they also gained wisdom from older Lincoln Public Schools role models. They rode a bus to Omaha with German students from Southeast High School and Lincoln High.
 
“I enjoyed that we were able to go somewhere fun and meet new people, hang out and talk about what we were doing,” Juan said.
 
The German State Convention celebrates the work of world language students of all experience levels each year. This spring marked the 50th anniversary of the event. It was also the first time that the Nebraska Association of Teachers of German (NATG) held the German State Convention in conjunction with the UNO fair.
 
The 2026 convention gave students a chance to showcase their knowledge of German culture and customs in many competitive activities. Some of the categories on this year’s schedule included instrumental and vocal music, artwork, poetry, directed dialogue and poster design.
 
LPS teacher Kelleen Rosebaugh said her students have benefited from the individual and group contests. She leads German classes for eighth graders at Irving and high schoolers at Southeast. German is also included in the World Language Exploration curriculum for sixth and seventh grades. Students explore German for five to eight days as part of the unit, which features additional daily sessions of other languages taught in LPS buildings.
 
“German State Convention is currently the only language fair that allows middle schoolers to attend,” Rosebaugh said. “I’d like more people to know and encourage the middle schoolers to compete. Getting them engaged early increases their participation in future years and how long they stay in the language program.”
 
Several Aardvarks took part in this year’s poster contest. Convention leaders asked them to incorporate the theme of “Time Travel: Significant Events in World History” in their designs. Judges evaluated the accuracy and depth of information on their poster and whether they used proper German grammar and spelling. They also gave points to students for making an appealing layout.
 
“The poster theme was history, particularly in the last 50 years, and that was a wide-open topic,” Rosebaugh said. “Several students adore soccer, and being able to combine their interest in soccer and German was enjoyable for them.”
 
Juan and fellow eighth grader Porter teamed up for the contest. They focused on the popular soccer club Bayern Munchen for their entry. The team was founded in 1900 and has been one of the most successful members of the German national league Bundesliga.

 
Juan said he and Porter were interested in exploring the impact Bayern Munchen has made on German culture. The team has won more than two dozen Bundesliga championships and has pocketed several trophies in the Union of European Football Associations Champions League. The club’s home stadium attracts 75,000 fans for each Bundesliga match.
 
“Porter and I made a poster about Bayern Munchen because we really like the soccer team,” Juan said. “We think that they are part of soccer history because of all their records and also because of all their amazing moments and amazing players.”
 
Judges gave medallions to champions of individual events and ribbons to first-place winners of group contests. They also presented ribbons for second and third place in all categories. Professors, university students and teachers whose students were not competing in an event served as judges throughout the day.
 
The German State Convention is one of many activities that the NATG sponsors each year. Students celebrate National German Week each October, participate in field trips and have the chance to take the National German Exam. Multiple LPS students earned either gold or silver medals on the 2025 test.
 
Rosebaugh said the German State Convention fits well into the 2024-29 LPS Strategic Plan’s goal of increasing family and community engagement. LPS students have attended the event for more than a decade because of its academic and prosocial benefits. Their experiences have fostered connections with classmates that have lasted throughout their middle and high school years.
 
“Having an opportunity to compete is helpful in building lifelong learners of German,” Rosebaugh said. “Having fun opportunities and meeting other students who speak German increases students’ likelihood to continue learning German in their school career. The UNO Language Celebration also showcases community outreach and study-abroad college programs that students could get involved in after they finish in LPS.”
 
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Posted on April 01, 2026

Scott students profit academically from Life Skills business

Scott Middle School students are making profits in the friendship business this year by supplying smiles and snacks throughout the building.
 
Members of Scott’s Life Skills class are accumulating business knowledge through their Wish Upon a Snack trips. Staff members purchase candy bars and other snack items from them each week, and students distribute the food to classrooms or offices every Friday afternoon. The group’s goal is to raise enough money to have either a pizza or ice cream party at the end of the year.
 
Seventh grader Kahleya spent one winter day recording each delivery as her team rolled a cart up to the main office. She used a pencil to mark down that fellow Stars had brought food to several staff members. Her careful accounting techniques ensured that everyone would receive their correct purchases in a timely fashion.
 
“I think we’re learning a lot,” Kahleya said. “I’ve been learning a lot of work stuff in school.”

 
Business partner Larena smiled as she talked with Life Skills teacher Tiffany Wiley after her group had transported a full cart of bagged items to classrooms. She and other students wore teal-colored aprons as they moved their special cargo down a hallway in one wing of the building.
 
“I’m just having fun right now,” Larena said. “I can talk to people who are nice. I like talking to people and I’m having fun with her.”
 
Wiley helped students start the business after she began leading classes at Scott two years ago. She and other Life Skills teachers provide students with board game money that they can use to buy real items on “pay day,” which lands on the first school day of every month. She has watched Kahleya, Larena and other Stars gain confidence and self-esteem in addition to valuable communication and organizational skills.
 
“The kids really enjoy it, and I enjoy getting to see them learn and grow from this,” Wiley said. “They interact with other people in the building that they wouldn’t normally get to.”
 
Wiley said the inspiration for Wish Upon a Snack came from Kolbi Stahl, who taught with Wiley when both worked at North Star High School. Students in Stahl’s Work Skills class conducted research, sent surveys to staff members and presented a detailed business plan to North Star administrators for their own snack cart endeavor.
 
Wiley took over supervision of North Star’s project when Stahl moved out of state. She asked Scott administrators if she could create a similar enterprise for her new Life Skills students, and the plan was approved when the 2024-25 school year began.
 
Kahleya, Chris, Kenji and Fae were part of a team that developed Wish Upon a Snack in the first quarter of 2024-25. They conducted price-comparison research to determine which local store to buy snack products from and asked staff members which snack options they would be interested in purchasing. They also voted on their favorite business name, logo and apron color, created advertisements for staff to watch and made name tags to wear on business trips.
 
Fourteen Stars had the opportunity to continue operating the venture in the 2025-26 school year. They spend time on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of each week working on their assigned jobs.

 
Students “clock in” on their Chromebooks at the beginning of each class period, and they fill out receipts, organize snack bags and write thank-you notes to staff members on Wednesdays. They fill the bags with food and thank-you messages each Thursday, and they transport supplies to Scott staff members every Friday. On delivery days, the Stars are given specific jobs such as pushing the cart, managing an accounting clipboard and storing money in a wallet.
 
“Delivering snacks helps students build social skills and money skills,” Wiley said. “Upon finishing their jobs at the end of each class period, students ‘clock out’ on their Chromebooks and get paid with fake money. Students have the opportunity to earn up to $5 a day, depending on their effort and participation.”
 
Larena said Wish Upon a Snack has given her more confidence in math topics like addition and subtraction. She said Wiley’s kind personality has made it easier to count dollar amounts and work with inventory sheets.
 
“The teacher has helped me to learn math,” Larena said. “I’m learning about math problems.”
 
Kahleya said she has formed many new friendships with school leaders. She remembers their names and says hi to them in the hallways each week. She was especially happy after walking up to the office one week.
 
“It was kind of fun, because we’ve been delivering snacks,” Kahleya said.

 
Wiley said she was proud of the entire Wish Upon a Snack team for expanding the business at Scott. She felt their investments of time, energy and attention would help them continue to experience friendly profits in the future.
 
“They do a great job,” Wiley said. “I really enjoy watching them succeed.”
 
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Posted on April 01, 2026