The Lincoln Board of Education met for its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 8, at 6:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Public Schools Steve Joel District Leadership Center, 5905 O Street.
Special reports, presentations and celebrations of success
Amy Kinnett - Dawes Middle School
Dawes Middle School sixth grade math teacher Amy Kinnett was recently awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) by the National Science Foundation. The PAEMST program, administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF) on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, recognizes outstanding teachers for their contributions to the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Progress Report: 2024-25 Board of Education and superintendent annual goals and priorities
Interim Superintendent John Skretta and the associate superintendents provided an update on the 2024-2029 LPS Strategic Plan. The strategic plan was adopted by the Board during the Feb. 27, 2024 meeting. The four identified priorities are Student Wellbeing and Outcomes, Staff Wellbeing and Outcomes, Family and Community Engagement and District Systems and Operations.
First reading
Newly Annexed Property to the City of Lincoln
The Board of Education assigns school attendance areas to property newly annexed to the City of Lincoln. The proposal assigns the newly annexed area of Wandering Creek to Maxey Elementary School, Lux Middle School, and East High School. The proposal also assigns the newly annexed area of South 84th Street and Rokeby Road to Wysong Elementary School, Moore Middle School, and Standing Bear High School. The Board will hold a second reading and vote at the next meeting.
Tuition charges for 2025-2026
The proposed rates for 2025-2026 include Grades K-6: $68.57 per day or $12,000 per year, Grades 7-8: $82.29 per day or $14,400 per year, and Grades 9-12: $96.00 per day or $16,800 per year. The Board will hold a second reading and vote at the next regular meeting.
Computer laptops for certificated staff
It is recommended that the Board award $3,406,125 to Apple for the purchase of 3,875 laptop computers that will be deployed to certificated staff during the 2025-2026 school year. Due to purchasing timelines, the Board waived second reading and voted to approve the bid.
Second reading
Cisco Webex calling
LPS has worked with Cisco Voice over IP solutions since 2001. The proposed five-year contract would move all services to Cisco Webex Cloud. It is recommended that the Board award the five-year contract for $1,525,064.50 to OneNeck IT Solutions. The Board held a second reading and voted to approve the contract.
Promoting Engagement and Knowledge (PEaK Project) grant application
The LPS Special Education department will once again apply for PEaK grant funding through the Nebraska Department of Education Office of Special Education. The Board held a second reading and voted to approve the grant application.
Informational items and reports
Board updates
Board President Dr. Bob Rauner provided information about measles outbreaks happening in Kansas, Colorado and Texas. He encouraged families to speak with their healthcare providers to learn more about measles vaccines and older adults about booster shots.
Superintendent update
Interim Superintendent John Skretta gave an update to the Board, highlighting the many ways the Board is committed to Civic and Community Engagement. Six board members traveled to the National School Boards Association conference last week.
Public comment
There were no individuals that addressed the Board during the public comment period.
Glimpses of LPS
We open every Board meeting with a video that highlights LPS. Tuesday’s Glimpses featured the latest in the Classroom Calling series highlighting the work of Trey Anderson at Lincoln High School.