Summer 2024

A PUBLICATION OF THE NEBRASKA COUNCIL OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

2024 ADMINISTRATORS’ DAYS

July 24-26, 2024

Younes Conference Center North - Kearney, NE

Featured Speakers

Thursday A.M.

Stacy Lennon

Stacy has 25 years of experience helping people handle their most important conversations well, in order to achieve better outcomes and build better relationships.

As a fellow educator, she is steeped in the pedagogy of experiential learning, and helping people onboard key practices that help make difficult conversations more productive.

Friday A.M.

Gerry Brooks

Gerry Brooks has been an educator for 25 years, beginning as a third-grade teacher and has been an elementary principal for 12 years.

Originally using humorous videos to encourage his staff, Gerry has become a national encourager for educators but his passion is leading others to be responsible for their own personal climate and culture in the workplace.

Schedule

Tuesday Evening - July 23

7:00 Northland Securities Hospitality

Wednesday - July 24

8:30-3:45 NDE Day Program

11:30-1:00 Networking Lunch

3:45-5:30 Exhibitor Reception

7:00 Hospitality Suites Open

Thursday - July 25

7:30 Administrators in Action

9:00-10:15 Welcome Stacy Lennon

10:15-10:30 Exhibit Engagement

10:30-11:30 Select-a-Session 1

11:30-12:45 Awards Lunch

12:45-1:15 Ice Cream Social

1:15-2:15 Select-a-Session 2

2:15-2:30 Exhibit Engagement

2:30-3:30 Select-a-Session 3

3:30-3:45 Exhibit Engagement

3:45-4:45 Select-a-Session 4

6:30 Administrator Reception with Band

8:00 Music Bingo and Karaoke

Friday - July 26

8:00 New Member Breakfast

8:30 Conference Breakfast Buffet

9:30-10:00 Welcome and Honors

10:00-11:30 Gerry Brooks

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Let the Good News Roll! Celebrating Eight Years of

Dr. Larianne Polk Steps into New Position as ESUCC's Executive Director

NCSA EXECUTIVE BOARD 2023-2024

Chair – Dr. Melissa Poloncic

Vice Chair – Josie Floyd

Immed. Past Chair – Kevin Wingard

NASA Representatives

President – Dr. Dan Schnoes

President Elect – Dr. Chris Prososki

Past President – Dr. Melissa Poloncic

NASBO Representatives

President – Marianne Carlson

President Elect – Dr. Chip Kay

Past President – Jeremy Knajdl

NAESP Representatives

President – Pam Lowndes

President Elect – Dr. Amber Johnson

Past President – Josie Floyd

NASES Representatives

President – Betsy Skelcher

President Elect – Amy Kroll

Past President – Misty Beair

NSASSP Representatives

President – Nate Seggerman

President Elect – Brian Fleischman

Past President – Kenny Loosvelt

NCSA STAFF

Dr. Michael S. Dulaney

Executive Director/Lobbyist

Amy Poggenklass

Finance and Membership Director

Megan Hillabrand

Professional Development Manager

Tyler Dahlgren

Communications Manager

NCSA MISSION

The mission of the Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) is to be an effective leader for quality education and to enhance the professionalism of its members. NCSA Today is a benefit of membership in the Nebraska Council of School Administrators, 455 South 11th Street, Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68508. Telephone 402.476.8055 or 800.793.6272. Fax 402.476.7740.

Annual membership dues are $385 (active members), $125 (associate members), or $50 (student members). NCSA Today is published quarterly. Send address changes to NCSA, Membership, 455 South 11th Street, Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68508. Copyright ©2019 by NCSA. All rights reserved.

Jen Sylvester

Executive Administrative Assistant

Brenda Petsch

Administrative Assistant

The opinions expressed in NCSA Today or by its authors do not necessarily reflect the positions of the Nebraska Council of School Administrators.

Let the Good News Roll! Celebrating Eight Years of Storytelling With NPSA

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

He’s principal at Adams Central Junior/Senior High now, but back in the fall of 2016, Scott Harrington was teaching government to upperclassmen at Norris. Each year, he’d take his students over to the Capitol for an up-close look at the Unicameral.

On my second day at NCSA, Dr. Dulaney spoke to Harrington’s class there on legislation, lobbying, and the importance of having a voice as a stakeholder. He then handed me the mic and asked if I’d go for five minutes on the communications field and the work I’d been hired to do. I had nothing planned, and, for the sake of transparency, wasn’t yet the biggest fan of public speaking.

I was just a writer, I still am, but I made it through my five minutes, wiped the sweat off my forehead, and hoped it’d be a while before I had to do that again.

The following week, I visited Harrington’s classroom and interviewed him about his yearly ritual of taking government students to the Capitol. That was my first story for Nebraska Public School Advantage, and I remember everything coming

into focus the moment I pressed “Publish.”

I’d only really written about sports in the past but was confident in my ability to spin a feature out of anything. My new subject matter, “the transformational power of public schools,” wasn’t something I was well-versed in. But after that first feature story in October of 2016, it just clicked. I’ve said it before, and I’ll probably say it again, but Nebraska’s public schools are a goldmine for a storyteller.

With the amazing NCSA Ambassadors by my side, we were off to the races. Momentum only wanes if you let it, and when it comes to advocating for public schools across the state of Nebraska, you’d almost have to go out of your way to do that.

We just wrapped up our eighth school year, and with 32 features published between August and May, it was our busiest yet. And why wouldn’t it be? Nebraska’s schools fortify our mission every day. In the fall, NPSA will eclipse 400 stories. That’s thousands of interviews and, between the ambassadors and I, hundreds of thousands of miles logged all over our beautiful state.

Park Elementary in Kearney was the host for Donuts with Grownups in late October, drawing an appearance from Kearney Police Department officers, who enjoyed coffee, donuts, and conversation with students.

It’s fun to reflect. I always get a kick out of surfing the www. nebraska-advantage.org archives, but I know the summer will pass by in the blink of an eye, and then the school bell will ring, and it’ll be time to put pen to paper again. Honestly, there’s part of me that can’t wait.

We’re going to keep the momentum going. We know our schools are going to make that easy. Let the good news roll!

On with our rewind.

The 2023-24 school year started with a pool party in Broken Bow, a principal’s plunge at Park Elementary in Kearney, and a “Ready to Glow” party with the Swedes in Gothenburg. It was a fast and furious start, a harbinger of things to come.

We spent a day in Plainview, where a violent thunderstorm ripped the roof right off the elementary school and set the district and the community on a race to accommodate students for the first day of school. Guess what? They won that race. In mid-September, we made a return to ESU 16’s Partner-Up Rodeo in North Platte. If you live in the area and haven’t been, you need to check it out. It’s one of the neatest events you’ll ever see.

I got the scoop on what really happens at a teacher in-service day with Kearney Public Schools and made an in-home visit to the Dundy County Stratton High School construction class’s dream house in Benkelman. Mental Health Awareness Week at Fairbury was a great opportunity to link up with the world-class ESU 5 mental health team and Teammates CEO DeMoine Adams, who kicked off the week by sharing a powerful message with the student body.

The Kearney Police Department talked about the importance of their presence at Park Elementary’s “Donuts with Grownups” in late October, and then we skipped across town to Meadowlark Elementary, where the school put on a Halloween-themed celebration for the ages. In early November, we caught a unified volleyball game at Ashland-Greenwood that warmed the heart and then sat down with the Ford brothers, one of Nebraska’s rare pairs of superintendent siblings.

Freeman was the place to be for World Kindness Day on November 13th, as students were sent off on a “Goosechase for Good Deeds,” then we shared the incredible and inspiring story of Crete Middle School principal Perla Jaimes.

The holiday season came and went with holiday baskets at DC West and Kimball superintendent Trevor Anderson donning his school’s Longhorn mascot.

The second semester kicked off in Friend, where their “Bulldog Buddies” program gave students and staff a monthly 30-minute blast of fun. We then featured an elementary music class that has a knack for sharing its gift with the Kearney community before profiling sixth-grade singing sensation Ava Bonifas from Adams Central. We rolled through February by launching the “To Tell You the Truth with Nebraska Educators” series and spending a day immersed in artificial intelligence with the fine folks at ESU 15.

March ended in a flurry with Fort Calhoun Community Schools’ inaugural Community Mental Health and Safety Conference, Lexington’s celebration for National Distinguished Principal from Nebraska Nikki Edeal (who received her final round of chemotherapy for cancer treatment earlier that morning), and Commissioner of Education Dr. Brian Maher’s Logan View homecoming.

For the second time in eight years, we took in a solar eclipse, this time from the football field at Elm Creek. We rode through Wymore on Southern Public Schools’ electric school bus and then kicked it with York Middle School at their famous career fair, which brought in more than 30 companies from a variety of industries. Our final feature of the school year was on Scottsbluff’s Peer Para Interns.

Continued on page 7...

The Partner Up Rodeo is held each September in North Platte, matching real life cowboys and cowgirls with special education students from the ESU 16 area. The event has grown each year, and draws participants from as far away as Mullen.

Dr. Kraig Lofquist to Retire as Executive Director of ESUCC After Distinguished Career

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

The son of a longtime superintendent, Kraig Lofquist made the frank decision at a young age to follow a different occupational path.

“I don’t ever want to do that,” were his exact words, in fact. And so he didn’t, choosing instead to study business at Northern State in South Dakota, where he earned a degree in Administration Marketing and Management. Lofquist worked in business for a bit while both his brother and sister opted for education and became teachers.

Eventually, after a handful of years of wheeling and dealing, Lofquist’s true calling beckoned. He belonged in schools helping young people rather than in corporate America, he realized. So back to school he went. A couple of years later, Lofquist graduated from UNK with a master’s degree in speech-language pathology.

“I worked with kids with special needs, and I just had the time of my life,” said Lofquist. “I had a great experience. It was awesome. Then, because there’s so much that goes with special education, I thought, ‘I might give being a director of special education a shot.’”

Lofquist received another master’s from UNK, this time in Elementary and Middle School Administration/Principalship, and embarked on a long and impactful career in educational leadership, one that was marked by notable achievements at each stop.

He points to the continuous improvement process implemented during his time at Wayne Community Schools, the developmental assets program he and his team helped incorporate at Millard Public Schools, and the new facility constructed in Hastings while he was serving as administrator of ESU 9. In his current position, as executive director of the ESUCC, Dr. Lofquist has seen staff expansion that has coincided with an ever-growing list of services and supports offered across the state.

When his latest position opened up five years ago, it was an ESU colleague, Dr. Ted DeTurk, who convinced him to pursue the job.

"I’ve often said I’m living the dream, and that’s not an exaggeration. It’s because of the great people we have,” said Lofquist.

Dr. Lofquist will retire from the ESUCC this summer. The last 13 years working in the service unit arena have been some of the most rewarding of his career, he said.

“ESUs provide the services that schools can’t provide on their own, or where it’s very difficult for them to do so,” said Lofquist. “You’re constantly addressing student needs. You’re developing strong relationships with the districts you’re supporting. In the end, everything is always based around the student, and that’s always the focus whenever we meet. We do what is best for young people.”

Stepping into Lofquist’s role is former ESU 7 administrator Dr. Larianne Polk, which he said gives him peace of mind that things are going to keep rolling in the right direction.

Retirement awaits, but if you know Dr. Lofquist at all, you know he doesn’t plan on taking it too easy.

“I think my wife was really worried,” Lofquist said with a laugh. “She said, ‘You need to do something.’”

Lofquist applied for a vacancy at UNK, one left by longtime professor Dr. Patricia Hoehner, who he said had a profound impact on him while he was a student there.

“I will be working at UNK as an assistant professor with some phenomenal people,” said Lofquist. “Dr. (Mike) Teahon is the head of the department. There’s Dr. Aprille Phillips and Dr. Chelsea Feusner. Just some fantastic people. I’m truly excited about that opportunity.”

In this profession, Lofquist said, it’s important to have a trusted mentor. He had plenty along the way and looks forward to imparting 25 years of experience to the next generation of school leaders in Nebraska.

“I can’t wait to share some of the things I’ve learned along the way with them.” ■

LOFQUIST

NCSA Holds Third Annual “Celebrating Women in Leadership” Event

For the third consecutive year, NCSA held the Celebrating Women in Leadership event, drawing some of the best school leaders from across the state to the Younes Conference Center in Kearney.

The event kicked off on the evening of March 20 when Vice Chair Josie Floyd welcomed renowned speaker and educational neuroscientist Staci Danford to the center stage. Danford’s keynote, “Think Better, Feel Better, Live Better,” was an energetic, interactive session that helped set the table for

the rest of the event. Courage coach (and certified “Dare to Lead” facilitator) Lisa Brouwer delivered the Thursday morning keynote.

For the third straight year, Celebrating Women in Leadership was held in partnership with the School Administrators of Iowa. Keep an eye out for information regarding the 2025 Celebrating Women in Leadership event! ■

Let the Good News Roll! Celebrating Eight Years of Storytelling With NPSA (Continued from page 5)

We crossed the finish line, both literally and figuratively, on Saturday, May 25, at Cody Park in North Platte, the site of the Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run. I participated in the 5-mile race as a follow-up to a feature I did on the race that was set up to honor McPherson County superintendent Tim Vanderheiden’s son Tyler.

It was the perfect grand finale of a school year full of grand moments.

As always, the storyboard for next year is filling up. If you’re reading this, we know you have awesome things happening in your districts and service units. Shoot me an email at Tyler@ncsa.org and have me out. Let’s keep the momentum going. ■

Dr. Larianne Polk Steps into New Position as ESUCC’s Executive Director

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

Dr. Larianne Polk became the ESU Coordinating Council’s executive director this summer, a career move that makes sense for someone who has been around service units for as long as she can remember.

“I have been a part of ESUs since I was a toddler,” said Polk, who steps into the new role after a decade serving as Chief Administrator for ESU 7 in Columbus. “My dad started the ESU Co-op system, and even before that he worked for ESU 17 as an art teacher. Service units have always been a part of my life.”

When Dr. Polk accepted the NCSA Distinguished Service Award at Administrators’ Days last summer, she told the story of her dad hollowing out an RV, filling it with art supplies and a potter’s wheel, and visiting all the county schools across the ESU 17 service map. In fact, that’s one of Polk’s earliest memories.

“My sister and I would run around through the annals of ESU 17 on the weekends with my dad, and there was a female superintendent at the time,” said Polk, “and I just remember thinking, ‘Oh, my gosh. Wouldn’t that be neat to be her someday.’”

Polk’s family is rich with teaching history. Her grandma was a teacher in the early part of the 20th century, and her husband

“I want us to keep the promises that we make at the statewide level and I want to show people the results of keeping those promises. It’s the same kind of thing, just from a broader perspective.”

Dr. Larianne Polk

Jason is the activities director for Wisner-Pilger Public Schools. However, deciding what she wanted to study in college was a major struggle for Polk.

“I came back home (from college) and talked to an old teacher, kind of a mentor of mine, and he helped steer me into the director of speech-language pathology,” she said. “I started out in the medical field, not the education field. I was working at Madonna Rehab and spending a lot of time with pediatrics, and that’s when I realized I could make a positive impact on more kids and I could help more students if I did so in education.”

Polk left Madonna for a position with ESU 2, and she’s been committed to the service unit cause ever since. That passion has never wavered or dipped. Not in the slightest.

“I find such importance and value in what we provide to school districts and understand how important those services are to schools and how difficult it would be for districts to do what they need to do without service units,” said Polk. “The intriguing thing about ESUCC is being able to have a statewide impact on services that can be done efficiently and effectively in the areas in our state that need them the most, especially in our smaller districts. Providing them a statewide network of support, I think that’s incredible.”

As ESUCC executive director, Polk is most looking forward to having meaningful conversations with policymakers about the importance of ESUs in Nebraska.

“Let’s make sure people understand what we are and what we do,” she said. “Dr. Kraig Lofquist has been fantastic and has laid some amazing foundational work for us in the legislature. Now, we have to take the work that he’s created and continue to take it even further.”

Saying goodbye to ESU 7 won’t be an easy task for Polk, who gets emotional talking about her staff’s accomplishments over the last ten years and all of the memories made along the way.

“The people are what have made this such a rewarding job, and we’ve done some pretty neat things that haven’t been done in this service area before,” Polk said. “We have our very

Continued on page 9...

POLK

NASBO Announces Outstanding Business Official of the Year Award

By Megan Hillabrand, NCSA Professional Development Manager

The NASBO Outstanding Business Official of the Year Award is presented each year during the NASBO State Convention to recognize individuals who have exhibited outstanding and visionary leadership in school business management.

This year's recipient began their career as a Business/ Computer Teacher in 1992 before moving into leadership as the Assistant Principal/Activities Director with Ogallala Public Schools. After moves to North Platte, Perkins County, and Shelby-Rising City, they stepped into their current position as Director of Finance and Human Resources with Columbus Public Schools in 2020. Dr. Chip Kay will soon be

making a transition within the district, having been named the next Superintendent of Columbus Public Schools.

Current Columbus Superintendent Dr. Troy Loeffelholz highlights Chip's impact, "Mr. Kay's experience in small schools, large schools, western Nebraska schools, and schools in eastern Nebraska has given him a great and unique perspective to work for change. Chip has also worked in our district with the Marzano Instructional and Evaluation model to change the culture and education for our students. His knowledge and attention to that detail through surveys and focus groups is working to change our culture. Chip's tireless work for the students and staff of Columbus Public Schools and those across the state has led to a new conversation in the world of school finance. I believe this is just the beginning for Mr. Kay and his leadership in the state."

Congratulations to Dr. Chip Kay, the 2024 NASBO Business Official of the Year! ■

Dr. Larianne Polk Steps into New Position as ESUCC's Executive Director (Continued from page 8)

first belief at ESU 7 that people are first. We are a family here, and being able to roll out systems and programs that reflect that is so gratifying. We make promises to our school districts and we keep our promises.”

Dr. Polk will take that mindset with her to ESUCC, where she’ll join what she called a “remarkably talented and dynamic” team that has grown from a staff of four to 22 in the last decade.

“I want us to make promises at a statewide level,” Polk said. “I want us to keep the promises that we make at the statewide level and I want to show people the results of keeping those promises. It’s the same kind of thing, just from a broader perspective.”

The best way to ensure that is by embodying a commitment to forward-thinking and innovation, or, you could say, what service units have always been about.

“For us to remain relevant in the conversations about education in Nebraska, we have to stay innovative and creative while customizing what we’re providing to the districts that we

serve,” said Polk, who sees the ESUs and the ESUCC as two entities that perform best when they’re in-synch. “We need to work together. We need to have those relationships to be able to carry out the statewide supports that we have.”

Dr. Polk anticipates the career she’s built in service units will be advantageous as she sets out to do just that.

“The advantage that I have is that yesterday, I was their colleague, their friend, their partner,” said Polk. “I was working with them on a variety of different projects. And tomorrow, I get to help lead them with the same people who deliver and devise statewide initiatives and work. I think the runway for me transitioning from one job to another will be pretty short. I’m excited.”

From rolling around county roads in north central Nebraska in her dad’s hollowed-out RV turned mobile art lab to executive director of the ESU Coordinating Council.

This has always been her world, you know. ■

KAY

After 14 Years at Norris School District 160, Dr. Brian Maschmann Set to Lead ESU 6

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

Before he began his journey as a school administrator, Dr. Brian Machmann taught math and language arts to 5th and 6th graders in a portable classroom in Bennington that sat near the Badgers’ football field.

“I always felt in my heart that I wanted to do more,” said Maschmann. “It was always ‘How can I impact more kids?’ That’s what drives me.”

Maschmann followed his heart. He packed up and moved west, where he would lead a building with about 150 students for four years before becoming the high school principal at Sutherland Public Schools.

Maschmann cherishes those years, calling them foundational. He drove the school bus and also served as the grounds and lunch director. He listened, and he learned. When Dr. Michael Cunning retired, he stepped into the role of superintendent. Then, he led.

Fourteen years ago, Dr. John Skretta hired him as the assistant superintendent at Norris School District 160.

“At that time, Norris was about 2,000 kids, and I got to spend nine years working with Dr. Skretta and making decisions that were impacting a great deal of students,” said Maschmann, who worked with Dr. John Schwartz for three years after Skretta became administrator of ESU 6 in Milford.

It was Skretta who kindly pushed Maschmann to go for his doctorate, which he did. When Schwartz accepted the superintendency at Millard Public Schools in 2022, Maschmann became superintendent of Norris School District 160, which by then had grown to 2,400 total students.

In April, Dr. Maschmann was hired to serve as administrator of ESU 6, where he will take the reins from a longtime colleague, mentor, and friend. Maschmann’s next step, it’s safe to assume, will be rather seamless, given his familiarity with ESU 6 and the extraordinarily high-quality services and supports their team provides.

“ESU 6 has provided so many great resources for Norris, just as all service units do for all of our schools in Nebraska,” Maschmann said.

“One of the greatest things, I’ve been at Norris for 14 years and I know the directors at ESU 6 and I know for a fact that they know their stuff,” Maschmann said. “They are experts in their own fields. I had the opportunity to meet with them recently, and I am so impressed with the staff at ESU 6. I’m looking forward to working with them.”

Maschmann has strong relationships and connections with the 16 different school districts that ESU 6 serves, thanks to the monthly superintendent meetings he’s been attending for a couple of years now.

“When you look at the 16 different districts, going from the big Class B schools down to the D-1 and D-2 schools, all of those districts need something different,” he said. “I’m excited to take on the challenge of figuring out how to best serve those districts and those students and teachers, too.”

Q: When you’re not working, where can we find you?

A: I like to rebuild old cars. I have a ‘67 Mustang convertible that I rebuilt and a ‘64 Ford Falcon that I restored. I like to refinish furniture. It’s nice to do something totally different from what I do at school. I spend a lot of time outdoors, taking my kids on hunting trips. I love to spend time with my family.

Q: Best restaurant in the ESU 6 area?

A: I’d have to say Pizza Kitchen in Milford. It’s the best. Hacienda Jalisco in Hickman is really good. There’s a lot of good places to eat.

Q: Favorite movie of all time?

A: We could go Old School, that’s good every single time. Stepbrothers and Joe Dirt are good, too.

Q: You’re stranded on an island and can only listen to one musical artist until you’re rescued. Who are you going with?

A: AC/DC or Metallica.

MASCHMANN

Kris Elmshaeuser Steps into Interim Administrator Position at ESU 7

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

It was early on in Kris Elmshaeuser’s career as an accountant that a chance encounter working with a group of children prompted an occupational course correction.

She doesn’t remember precisely what that encounter was, but she remembers the realization that came shortly after.

“I thought to myself, ‘I like this,’” Elmshaeuser said. “I liked getting to be connected with children.”

When her son was born with disabilities, Elmshaeuser left the world of finance behind and pursued a degree in special education. That decision was quickly vindicated. She had found her calling and embarked on a career that’s spanned 30 years and has included stops at the ESU, school district, and state department levels.

“I fell in love with helping children who may be seen as a disadvantage because of having a disability,” Elmshaeuser said. “Trying to help them and trying to help the educators around them see the true potential of children with disabilities has been my passion.”

Most recently, Elmshaeuser served as the director of special services, a position she previously held for 18 years (from 2000-2018). In the five years between, she served as director of special services at Centennial Public Schools and as NDE’s assistant state director for the Office of Special Education.

On July 15, Elmshaeuser will officially start as the interim administrator at ESU 7 in Columbus, an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.

“I have never had the opportunity to be an administrator,” she said. “As I was looking to end my career and this opportunity became available, I thought maybe it was God telling me now’s the time, so I submitted my resume to be considered.”

Elmshaeuser will be stepping into a position previously held

by Dr. Larianne Polk, who left to become the executive director for the ESUCC.

“ESU 7 is just a phenomenal agency, and I’m so excited to join the team,” Elmshaeuser said. "They have outstanding team members who do outstanding work.”

It’ll be bittersweet saying goodbye to ESU 16, where she’s spent about two-thirds of her career.

“ESU 16 has always been a family to me,” Elmshaeuser said. “I had 18 years there before we moved east, and when I came back, it was just like going home again. They have awesome people committed to providing services to the districts and to students.”

Elmshaeuser, it goes without saying, is a big-time believer in the work Nebraska’s ESUs do. Her first priorities include getting to know the board members, something she’s never had to do before, and getting up to speed with all the projects and current initiatives underway at ESU 7.

“I love the ESUs,” she said. “I’m thrilled to get the opportunity to go and learn about another one.” ■

Q: When you’re not working to best serve students and teachers, what can we find you doing?

A: We love watching Husker baseball. We spent the entire week at the Big 10 Tournament. I have five grandkids. They live far away, so I don’t get to see them often, but getting time with them is always the best. My husband and I enjoy finding new, fun places to go out to eat. Spending time with our dog, those are all fun things.

Q: Favorite restaurant?

A: We like to do Saturday morning brunches, and The Hub Cafe is one of our favorites.

Q: You’re stranded on an island and can only listen to one musician until you’re rescued, who are you choosing?

A: MercyMe.

Q: Favorite movie?

A: Field of Dreams

ELMSHAEUSER

ESU 3 CEO Dr. Dan Schnoes Elected AESA President

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

Dr. Dan Schnoes grew up in a big family in a small town called Paullina, a dot on the map in northwest Iowa that about a thousand people call home.

He had 25 first cousins on his father’s side of the family alone. At a family reunion a while back, Schnoes and his cousins got to talking about life and career paths, which then led to some numbercrunching.

“We did the count and realized that sixty to seventy percent of us went into education or social work, which we found fascinating,” Schnoes said from the chief executive officer’s office at ESU 3 in La Vista. “Several of my cousins taught and coached for numerous years and are retired now. Three of us went on to get administrative degrees. Two of us became superintendents.”

Education wasn’t some kind of grand calling for Schnoes, though it’s turned out to be just that. Back then, he said, career opportunities weren’t as expansive as they are now. There wasn’t a family business to step into, so his options were pretty clear-cut. He could go sell insurance or something along those lines, or he could teach. Schnoes’ experience in school swayed him to pursue the latter.

“I had a good elementary teacher and a principal who is still a good friend of the family, and that’s kind of how I chose teaching,” Schnoes said. “I had several great teachers through high school and some good coaches, and I just thought that this career and this life looked like a good one.”

Eventually, Schnoes took it a step further and received his doctorate. He’s since carved out an impactful career in education, spending 15 years as principal at Yutan Junior/ Senior High School and two years as superintendent of DC West Community Schools before accepting the CEO job at ESU 3 in 2014.

This summer will mark 10 years he’s been at ESU 3. It’ll also mark an exciting new beginning.

In April, Dr. Schnoes was selected to become the next Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA) president after being nominated by colleagues from Indiana and California.

He served on the AESA executive board for two years before being elected and will serve as president-elect until next spring before a one-year term as president. Schnoes will then stay on the board for an additional year as past president.

“It’s just a great honor,” Schnoes said, “and it’s important for us in the Midwest and particularly us in Nebraska to try to have somebody on that board, because the camaraderie and learning what’s going on around the country from a number of other states that are represented is huge.”

Currently the president of NASA and a member of the NCSA executive board, Schnoes said his AESA colleagues from across the country revere his involvement with his statewide organization. He was also elected Chair of the NCSA executive board in May.

“We all work together in Nebraska,” Schnoes said. “Our ESUCC network and our NCSA network have some of the closest ties, because the work that we do goes hand-in-hand with each other. There’s a very natural fit there, and I think it’s been there a long time. One of the things that I like to promote is that we’re much stronger when we work on this all together. That’s an old saying, but it’s a true saying.”

He’s always proud to share what's going on in Nebraska and anticipates ample opportunities to do more of that in the next three years.

Last November, Schnoes was on the main stage at the State Education Conference in downtown Omaha, speaking to his Nebraska colleagues. This December, Schnoes will be on the stage at AESA’s national conference in Orlando, introducing speakers and running an event he helped plan.

“It’s an honor to be part of the executive team with AESA, just as it was to be on the executive board of NCSA,” said Schnoes. “I’ve been lucky to get exposure to all the inner workings of two excellent organizations, and it’s just kind of fascinating how they all work and tie together. It’s going to be pretty cool.” ■

SCHNOES

Dr. Anna Thoma Selected to NASSP Board of Directors

By Tyler Dahlgren, NCSA Communications Manager

When the cell phone buzzed from the inside of her front pocket, Millard North Middle School Assistant Principal Dr. Anna Thoma was out in the parking lot directing after-school traffic. The skies overhead were turning dark as the Millard area entered a tornado warning. It was a hectic moment as parents scooped up their kids and scattered off for home.

Thoma answered the phone and, in the middle of that frenzy, learned she’d been selected to the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Board of Directors. It was a surreal moment, one that comes on the heels of an eventful couple of years for the 2022 Nebraska Assistant Principal of the Year.

It all started with a little nudge from her Nebraska network.

“The whole thing still hasn’t completely settled with me yet, and I attribute most of it to Brandon Mowinkel and Ross Ricenbaw,” Thoma said. “About seven years ago, I started my doctoral journey at Doane, and they were part of my core. Those two really encouraged me to get more involved with NCSA, both at the state and regional level, which I hadn’t really done yet. When I won the Region 2 Assistant Principal of the Year, that’s what catapulted everything.”

Dr. Thoma is the first Nebraskan to serve on NASSP’s national board in at least two decades. Her journey started in an Ed 101 class at Augustana College, where, as a freshman, Thoma made the switch from an elementary special education major to a major in Spanish.

“I was K-12 certified, but in Nebraska, we don’t have many elementary language programs so I ended up student teaching in middle and high school. I just fell in love with middle school and knew that was where my passion was,” said Thoma.

While teaching Spanish in Bellevue Public Schools, Thoma was nudged once again, this time by her principal, who suggested she pursue administration. After three years as

Dean of Students at BPS, she accepted the AP position at Millard North Middle School, a place that feels like home.

“My purpose and my mission are to bring life into all of the interactions that I get to have, whether they’re positive or negative so that everybody who walks away from that interaction knows that I care about them,” Thoma said. “Being an assistant principal, I’m in a unique position where I’m able to empower and support teachers and adults, as well as students and parents. The service to the building is what I find most rewarding.”

Winning Nebraska Assistant Principal of the Year was a tremendous honor, but Thoma is extra grateful for the doors that opened afterward. She was appointed NSASSP’s national middle school representative and began to make connections with administrators from across the country.

“The award was great, but it was the experiences that came out of it that really filled my bucket,” Thoma said. “From there, I felt like I needed to give back.”

When Dr. Thoma approached the administration at MPS about turning in an application for the NASSP Board of Directors, Superintendent Dr. John Schwartz and the team were nothing but supportive.

“I know I wouldn’t be the leader I am today without all of the people here at Millard Public Schools and the systems of professional learning and development we have in place,” Thoma said.

She flew to San Antonio for the interview on a red-eye on the morning of April 20 and was home by midnight on Sunday. The interview itself lasted 30 minutes, and Thoma was proud of herself for giving it a shot.

“It was the most wonderful experience I’d ever had,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting to be selected. It felt like such a long shot, but I knew it was valuable and worthwhile to have done it.”

Dr. Thoma will begin her service on the NASSP Board of Directors on the first of August. She was also invited to a board retreat in Hawaii at the end of June.

“They really had to twist my arm on that,” Thoma said with a laugh. “I’m looking forward to meeting everybody in Hawaii.” ■

THOMA

NSASSP Announces 2024-2025 Nebraska High School Principal of the Year

By Ben Jones, NSASSP Public Relations Representative

The Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals has selected Mr. Seth Ryker as the 2024 High School Principal of the Year. This award is presented annually to a Principal who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in their school, region, and state level. The award honors principals who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of personal excellence, collaboration, leadership, curriculum, instruction, assessment, and personalization.

Mr. Ryker has been in education since 2000 and started in the classroom at Wolfe Creek Elementary in Shannon County, South Dakota, as a 6th-8th grade teacher. He later took a position at Broken Bow Public Schools, where he served as a social studies teacher and later as the Activities Director. In 2005, he became the Activities Director and Assistant Principal at Gothenburg Junior / Senior High School. He served in this role until 2017, when he moved into the 7-12 Principal positions at Gothenburg. He has been in this position ever since. He has been a member of the Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) for eight years, the Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals (NSASSP) for eight years, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) for eight years. Mr. Ryker has been an active member of the NSIAAA (Nebraska State Athletic Administrators Association). In 2016, he was recognized as the NSIAAA District IV Activities Administrator of the Year.

Mrs. Allison Jonas, Superintendent at Gothenburg Public Schools, praised Mr. Ryker by saying, “Mr. Ryker possesses a remarkable talent for engaging with teacher leaders. His leadership style not only promotes teamwork but also inspires a shared vision among staff.” She added, “His capacity to collaborate seamlessly with teachers and support staff has led to expanded opportunities

for students, collaborative opportunities for staff, and a welcoming culture with high expectations for both students and staff.”

Ashlyn Richeson, a Gothenburg Junior/Senior High School student, stated, “Mr. Ryker has consistently gone above and beyond to create a supportive and nurturing environment where students feel like they can excel both academically and personally in their activities.” She added, “He fosters a culture of inclusion, diversity, and respect and ensures that every student feels valued and heard.”

Nate Wyatt, a parent, board member, and business leader in Gothenburg, said, “Mr. Ryker’s commitment to providing instructional leadership for his staff is evident in the collaborative, team-based culture he has cultivated.” He added, “I am appreciative of Mr. Ryker’s open-door policy and his genuine care for the well-being and success of each of my children.” He continued, “Mr. Ryker understands the importance of preparing students not just academically but also as well-rounded individuals ready to meet the challenges of the future economy.”

Mr. Ryker received his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Chadron State College. He later earned his Master’s in Educational Administration from Chadron State College. Mr. Ryker states, “I am honored to receive the NSASSP High School Principal of the Year award! I have been blessed to be an administrator for Gothenburg Public Schools for the past 20 years. Any award that I receive is due entirely to the outstanding teachers and fellow administrators that I have been privileged to work with.”

Congratulations to Mr. Seth Ryker for his outstanding performance as a High School Principal at Gothenburg Junior / Senior High School. NSASSP appreciates his contributions to the profession, and we are proud to name Seth Ryker of Gothenburg Public School the 2024 High School Principal of the Year! ■

RYKER

NSASSP Announces 2024-2025 Nebraska Middle School Principal of the Year

By Ben Jones, NSASSP Public Relations Representative

The Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals has selected Mr. Chad Soupir as the 2024 Middle School Principal of the Year and the Nebraska Principal of the Year. This award is presented annually to a Principal who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in their school, region, and state level. The award honors principals who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of personal excellence, collaboration, leadership, curriculum, instruction, assessment, and personalization.

Mr. Soupir has been in education since 1993 and started in the classroom at Madelia Elementary School in Madelia, Minnesota, as an elementary teacher. He taught in Minnesota until 2003, when he took a middle school science and math position at Elkhorn Ridge Middle School in Elkhorn, NE. In 2011, Mr. Soupir became the Middle School Principal at Elkhorn Valley View Middle School. He has been in this position ever since. He has been a member of the Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) for nineteen years, the Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals (NSASSP) for nineteen years, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) for five years.

Dr. Bary Habrock, Superintendent at Elkhorn Public Schools, praised Mr. Soupir, saying, "Positive relationships come naturally to Chad, but he leverages these relationships to provide meaningful leadership to benefit students and the school community." Dr. Habrock continued, "After working with Chad Soupir for many years, it is clear that he represents the best in our profession."

Jade Ringenberg, an Elkhorn Valley View Middle School student, stated, "Mr. Soupir values his students' opinions as if we were young adults instead of children." Sophia Franzluebbers, another student of Mr. Soupir's, added, "Mr. Soupir makes it a priority to create a supportive and inclusive

school community where every student feels valued and respected."

Sherry Zehr, a parent in Elkhorn Public Schools, stated, "Our school is fortunate to have a person with sincere character and a heart for middle school students. He will take the time to listen and support his teachers and students." She continued, "He doesn't simply talk the talk, but he walks the walk with anyone involved for the betterment of the students."

Mr. Soupir received his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Moorhead State University. He later earned his Master's of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from St. Mary's University and added his K-12 Administrative Certificate from the University of Nebraska Omaha. In 2023, he was named the NSASSP Region II Outstanding Middle School Principal of the Year.

Mr. Soupir has also contributed to non-profit work in education and is actively involved in professional organizations at the local, state, and national levels. He has been engaged with the National Middle-Level Association (AMLE), serving on various committees and the Executive Council, where he played a key role in strategic planning and leadership recruitment. As the Regional Director Volunteer for PLAYSMART, Mr. Soupir collaborated with Partnership 4 Kids to provide leadership programs for underprivileged youth. One notable initiative is the PLAYSMART Leadership Academy, which has positively impacted over a thousand students. In addition to his work with PLAYSMART, Mr. Soupir currently serves as the Vice President on the Board of Coalition RX. This organization focuses on substance abuse prevention programs for middle school students, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs and provide essential support resources.

Congratulations to Mr. Chad Soupir for his outstanding performance as a Middle School Principal at Elkhorn Valley View Middle School. Mr. Soupir will represent Nebraska as a candidate for the National Principal of the Year. NSASSP appreciates his contributions to the profession and proudly names Chad Soupir of Elkhorn Public School the 2024 Middle School Principal of the Year and Nebraska Principal of the Year. ■

SOUPIR

YOUR SCHOOL FOR THE FUTURE

It has never been more important to effectively communicate your school’s value to your community.

IS YOUR SCHOOL READY?

Better engage and educate parents and the community

Enhance support and efforts for funding/bonding

Leverage your website as a communication hub

Harness the power of storytelling to promote your mission, values, and outcomes

You know the good work you’re doing.

can help you ensure your community does too.

NCSA Honors Retirees

Each year NCSA is sad to lose but happy to congratulate our members in education who are leaving the profession due to their long-deserved retirement. We are honored to share with you a glimpse of their future plans or just a bit of advice that only those who have worked with children and parents for so long can give!

Please Note: The NCSA staff made every effort to include all those individuals who responded to our request for information on retirements.

Dr. Rex Anderson

Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Gretna Public Schools

Two things to remember about school administration.

1. It is all about relationships. Sit back and enjoy the people on the journey.

2. "Change is inevitable except from a vending machine!" -Robert C. Gallagher

Todd Beck

Principal Central Valley High School

It has been an honor being a part of the NCSA. At this time I will be starting my retirement at the end of this school year.

Jill Clevenger

Principal

Kenwood Elementary School

Our Region IV group was instrumental in providing me the support and comradery needed from the very beginning of my principalship to this day. Our relationships will continue past retirement. Thank you to those who helped mentor me in some way or another. Bless all of you that continue to encourage, inspire, and support those to love learning.

Gregg Cruickshank Superintendent

Homer

Community Schools

Congratulation to colleagues who are retiring! Best wishes for a great 2024-25 and beyond to those of you who continue to provide the necessary and essential leadership for kids, staffs, and communities during these challenging times!

Raymond Collins

Superintendent

Wilber-Clatonia Public Schools

It has been an honor to serve the communities of Prague and Wilber-Clatonia. There are way too many people to mention individually however I want to express my appreciation to all of the great staff, administrators and Board members I have had the opportunity to work with in the past 42+ years. I would like to acknowledge the spirit of teamwork and collaboration in our efforts to help students succeed and give a special shout out to the people in NRCSA, NASB and especially the NCSA for supporting our work. Finally, I want to express my sincere gratitude to my wife Deb and our family for all of their support and encouragement. Thank-you!!!

Kevin Eairleywine

Executive Director of Human Resources and Elementary Operations

Fremont Public Schools

It has been an honor to be a Nebraska Public School Educator for the last 40 years (30 of those years in administration)! I'd like to thank Mike and his entire NCSA team - both current and past membersfor their work to promote and support Public Education here in Nebraska!

Dr. Brett Gies

Superintendent

Sioux County Schools

Education is the light of the world. Best wishes to everyone!

Continued on page 18...

NCSA Honors Retirees (Continued

from page 17)

Jeff Gilbertson

Principal

Grand Island Senior High School

Mr. Gilbertson started his career in education in 1996 as an elementary teacher with the Lincoln Public Schools in Lincoln, Nebraska at Brownell and Ruth Hill elementary schools. In 2001, He became an elementary school principal with the Grand Island Public Schools in Grand Island Nebraska. He led 3 separate elementary schools before becoming a middle school principal, and then Director of Secondary Education. In 2012, he accepted the rewarding challenge to become the Executive High School Principal at Grand Island Senior High. Mr. Gilbertson will enjoy his retirement with his family, wife Mindy, daughter Hannah, and son Jack. He plans to contribute to education in some capacity while also spending intentional hours fishing and kayaking. Mr. Gilbertson is grateful for the amazing support of the NCSA leadership, the relationships with colleagues, and the impact they collectively have made on students in Nebraska. -Life is good!

John Hastings

Associate Principal

Lincoln Southwest High School

I am fortunate to have experienced such a rewarding professional journey. It has been an honor to be a significant adult in a child’s life every day and to work with so many incredibly dedicated educators.

Bob

Hayes Principal / Athletic Director Ponca Public School

Thank you to the NCSA members that have helped me through the years. I hope that administrators keep striving to make the education in Nebraska one of the strongest in the nation.

Dr. Dee Hoge

Assistant Superintendent Bennington Public Schools

It has been an honor to work with the talented professionals across Nebraska through NACIA, NASCD, and projects with NDE. I will forever value the personal and professional friendships of those who go out and do their best every day for the students in Nebraska.

Dr. Terry Houlton

Director of Special Education

Millard Public Schools

Gratitude overflows to Millard Public Schools, NCSA, and NASES! Throughout my journey in education, I've been enriched by the unwavering generosity of countless individuals who've selflessly offered their time, wisdom, and encouragement. Their influence extends far beyond shaping me as an educator; it has profoundly impacted me as a person. Nebraska epitomizes quality education for all, and I am deeply fortunate to have been a part of such a remarkable community. Farewells are never easy, but in the words of Winnie the Pooh, “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

Brett Joneson

Activities Director

North Platte Public Schools

TIt's been a great and fast 31 years! I appreciate all who I have been able to work with over my time in Public education, the relationships of students. parents, and colleagues has been a blessing. Thanks to my family for understanding all the time away from home on long nights & weekends. Thank you to North Platte Public Schools and Lawrence Public Schools for allowing to work in their great districts. I will still be involved in education at different levels, just on my time. Keep making a difference!

Dr. Kent Kingston

Executive Director of Technology

Millard Public Schools

Thank you to all my educational colleagues over the past thirtynine years that made serving in public education such a wonderful and rewarding experience. To the many mentors who made a positive impact on my career, you have my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation!

Dr. Troy Loeffelholz

Superintendent

Columbus Public Schools

It's hard to imagine this time would ever come. After 36 great years of working with students, parents, teachers, and colleagues I cannot imagine ever doing anything else. Everyone I have met or worked with have shaped my career and who I am. For that I say thank you. The administrators I have had the great opportunity to work with in Nebraska are second to none and I cannot wait to work in the future with all school districts across the state. Thank you NCSA and all of my peers because I have had the opportunity to work with some of the best.

Dr. Kraig Lofquist

Executive Director ESUCC

Nebraska school leaders are the best people on the planet. It's been an honor.

Lincoln’s students and families. I wish all of my education colleagues the very best. I know the important work of educating and caring for students in Nebraska is in good hands.

Beth Nelson Director of Teaching and Learning

Norfolk Public Schools

It has been an immense joy and privilege to dedicate 32 years to Nebraska's Public Education. I feel deeply honored to have been a part of this incredible journey, where I've had the opportunity to meet, learn, and grow alongside exceptional colleagues. The lifelong friendships gained during this time are treasures I hold dear, and I eagerly look forward to cheering on the next generation of educational leaders.

Angie Ossian Girard Middle School Principal Holdrege Public Schools

Thank you for all the wonderful friendships, advice and support over the years :)

Dr. Rob McEntarffer

Supervisor / Assessment and Evaluation

Lincoln Public Schools / ESU 18

Rob McEntarffer is proud to have spent almost his entire academic life being involved with Lincoln Public Schools. From kindergarten at Zeman Elementary in 1974 to the district office in 2024, Lincoln Public Schools has been an important part of his life, and he hopes he helped LPS be a more humane and positive part of many students' and teachers' lives.

Dr. John Neal

Associate Superintendent for Civic Engagement

Lincoln Public Schools

It has been an honor to work alongside dedicated support staff, teachers, and administrators in three different districts spanning 39 years, with the last 22 years being in my hometown working with the Lincoln Public Schools. I have learned so much from those with whom I have worked, and I will treasure the wonderful memories and friendships I have made. I am looking forward to the next chapter of my life, spending time with my wife Ann, daughter Ryane, and other family and friends. I will miss my LPS friends and colleagues and serving

Cheryl Richter Principal Fredstom Elementary School / Lincoln Public Schools

It has been an honor and a privilege to be part of this wonderful group of people who commit themselves to educating students to reach their full potential day after day. This profession is a true calling of the heart and we know that doing this work together, collaboratively, is the best way to reach and every student.

Barry Schaeffer Superintendent Morrill Public Schools

After 36 years it seems time to try for new horizons. I greatly appreciate the people I have had the pleasure and opportunity to meet and work with over this journey. My network of colleagues have been great support during the tougher times and fun to celebrate with during the better times. I know that there are great teachers, and leaders in this profession who will continue to make a positive impact on students in Nebraska. Thank you to all of you for what you do everyday for our students.

Continued on page 20...

NCSA Honors Retirees (Continued from page 19)

Ellen Stokebrand Director of Special Education ESU 4

Time really does fly... seems like just yesterday I was beginning this 41 year career. I have had many opportunities and have enjoyed the professional relationships within each of the teaching assignments/districts and administratively at the ESU. My best advice is to "Say yes!" when asked to be part of a committee or involved in leadership discussions through NCSA and your affiliate. Best wishes as each of you continue to be the best advocates for our students, families and districts! I'll be right there beside you!

Jason Sutter Principal Beatrice High School

The work that we do as administrators is very important. We are ultimately responsible for the educational setting, wellbeing and safety of all of our scholars and staff, so it is a job that has a huge responsibility associated with it. But, it is also a job that allows us to be around young people, enjoy their youth and passion, assist them in whatever pursuits they dream of and witness them graduate toward their better days. It's important to always have a purpose. My purpose for 36 years, has been to help our students and people. I will continue that purpose, but in different ways. It was a good ride!

Cindy Wells Director of Athletics and Activities Grand Island Senior High School

I am so grateful and will always treasure the memories created over the past 43 years working for the Grand Island Public Schools as teacher, coach, and administrator. This career has offered me so many memorable experiences and I have gained such good friends along the way. I have been fortunate to learn from talented mentors and colleagues. I will greatly miss the school environment, staff (classified and certified), athletics and fine arts, and most of all the students at GISH.

Kevin Wingard

Superintendent

Milford Public Schools

Thanks to NCSA for your leadership. You are a great professional organization. I have been blessed to be part of great public school districts in Nebraska. I have always stressed that you need to surround yourself with great people and I have had the fortunate opportunity to live this out. I have worked with exceptional people, many that will be lifelong friends. Thank you to all of my colleagues. I wish all of you the best as you continue to lead the incredible public schools in Nebraska. Never doubt that we are the best and that the “Nebraska Way” is great for our students.

Also Retiring:

Greg Adams 7-12 Principal Malcolm High School

Mary Bayne Assistant Principal Millard North High School

Lori Broady Teaching and Learning Specialist ESU 4

Jennifer Brockman Coordinator of Special Services Westside Community Schools

Jackie Ediger Director of Professional Development ESU 9

Tim Farley Principal Syracuse Middle School

Gordan Goodman K-12 Principal Sargent Public Schools

Amanda Hartz Principal Hitchcock Elementary School

Matt Larson Associate Superintendent for Instruction Lincoln Public Schools

Chris Moore Principal Elementary School at Syracuse

Kris Pokorny Business Manager Wahoo Public Schools

Betty Replogle Principal Beatrice Public Schools

Debbie Schraeder Educational Consultant ESU 3

Deidre Schukei Assistant Principal Buffett Middle School

Mike Smith Principal Lewis and Clark Middle School

The Heart of What We Do

By Betsy Skelcher, NASES President

As I near the end of my NASES presidential term, I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to you, our members, the NASES Executive Board, the NCSA Executive Board, and the NCSA staff for all your support and contributions in empowering, growing, and leading special education and student services across Nebraska this year. I offer my gratitude and congratulations to all of our colleagues who are entering retirement and wish you the very best in all that is to come. I also offer my gratitude and admiration to all of you who will be in the trenches– the district office, the boardroom, the classroom, and the IEP conference room again next year.

I don’t have many words of wisdom or significant inspirations any more compelling than your own. I may not have a lot of control over many things; however, I try to remember that I have the potential to have an enormous influence - greater than I might ever imagine through my work as an educator, and I have reaped the benefits of lasting relationships and personal connections. As I look back on the last 36 years, I think I might be fooling myself if I say I’ve never thought about my choice to become a lifelong educator. Being an educator is hard work. The work we do can be emotionally and mentally draining and often requires us to re-energize our enthusiasm and purpose through deep reflection.

My husband passed away nearly 8 years ago. Shelldon was a civil rights attorney and spent most of his career advocating and litigating on behalf of people with disabilities. Not often did we find ourselves on opposite sides of the conference table, but on the few occasions we did, I knew it would be okay. It would be okay because I was grounded in the comfort and confidence of knowing that we both had the same values regardless of our affiliations. We knew without any compromise that we would always try to do what was in the best interest of the student and family sitting with us. We always came back to remembering our “why.”

The heart of what we do isn’t because it makes us feel good or necessarily because we feel like we need to make a difference. We do what we do for the human connection. We

all want human connection, and we need to have a purpose. Many years ago, early in my career, I was trying to solicit donations through corporate contributions. I’d go and speak to a group from a factory or an oil plant and try to persuade employees to give money in order to help the foundation for the school where I worked. After several mediocre attempts at gaining contributions, I decided I needed to tell a story—the compelling reason behind why we all want to contribute and have a connection in order to give. I recruited a listener from the audience to read the book, The Giving Tree, as I signed his words. Sitting in their hard hats, finishing their donuts, and listening to my presentation, at the conclusion of the story, I had 100 men and women crying. The donation forms were completed in ways promoting generosity that I’ve never seen before. Often, we are asked, “Why do you do what you do?” We might respond by sharing stories about how an educator influenced us and helped us along our path. Some of us might tell stories about how it gives us personal gratification to help others and to see students succeed. But at the heart of what we do is a desire for and connection to other people.

"The heart of what we do isn't because it makes us feel good or necessarily because we feel like we need to make a difference. We do what we do for the human connection."

Betsy Skelcher

Across the state, individual districts have dedicated resources and professional development to cultivate more inclusive environments and cultures. Although supported by science and embedded in the law, inclusionary practices and inclusionary settings provide all of us with what we need to form connections with other humans. We know that all children can learn if provided great tools and supports while being afforded the same opportunities to access curriculum and learning. We focus on outcomes and progress, achievement and goal attainment. While essential, it’s also very important to

Continued on page 23...

NASES Distinguished Special Education Administrator Award

By Betsy Skelcher, NASES President

Annually, one NASES member is recognized for his/her significant accomplishments and contributions as a Special Education Administrator. This year's recipient was nominated by not one but five colleagues for her excellence in special education leadership. As described by her colleagues, Dr. Tammy Voisin’s professional career as a special educator is seen as a perfect example of “heart” being at the core of what we do. She is frequently heard saying that this career is her love and passion and there is nothing else she could envision herself doing with her life. Not only does she lead

The Heart of What We Do (Continued from page 21)

remember that at the heart of inclusion is the ability in the opportunity for connection.

At the first NASES conference, I announced our motto for the year: “Thinking Outside the Box.” It’s a cliche for a reason, but that doesn’t make it any less real or easy. Thinking outside the box is one of the most difficult challenges for any school district or educational system. Patterns and systems have a way of taking over.

Without hesitation, I can say that during the past year, I have witnessed your innovative thinking and collective problemsolving time and time again. In facing some of the most challenging obstacles this year, I’ve seen you— I’ve seen you leading with conviction and a promise to do better, be better, and re-design educational opportunities for all students. You should be so very proud of the work you have identified to accomplish in order to continue to be better for the students and families that we serve and support, despite some of the most difficult challenges we have faced in many years. I speculate that we are going to have to look at problems

with her heart, but she also leads by example. She often refers to her own experiences to inform decision-making. She is a leader that will jump into the trenches to get things done. She is professional in her interactions with staff, families, and students and always greets each person with an attitude of respect and makes each person feel important.

Dr. Voisin demonstrates how, in the work of special education and leadership, it takes strength to make changes. She can honor the past while still being able to make necessary changes by constantly evaluating current practices and their effectiveness in today’s schools. As a confident and creative problem solver, she gets excited to gather around a table to develop solutions for any problem. She surrounds herself with professionals who push her to think differently and consider a multitude of options for change. Her passion for her job is contagious, and it is evident in her leadership that her primary focus is the growth and success of students with disabilities.

Congratulations to Dr. Tammy Voisin of Papillion La Vista Community Schools, the 2023 NASES Distinguished Special Education Administrator! ■

and challenges from a different perspective. Unconventional thinking has become the norm.

The best ability is accountability. Don’t let anyone ever say you don’t work hard enough, you are stagnant in your thinking, you are cold, or you don’t lead with heart. My hope for us all, my greatest plea to you, is to please offer your hand, your mind, and your heart so that no child is left behind because we did not act. Lead with heart and take responsibility for those who need us most. When we lead with heart, we will continue to not only “Think Outside the Box” but perhaps conduct our work without even realizing there is a box. In the words of Franklin D. Roosevelt, “The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.”

In the year to come, celebrate innovative thinking. Lead with heart, cultivate human connections, be accountable, stay true to your core values, and remember that YOU are the change agents. Thank you, each of you, for all you do! ■

NCSA Election Results

The Nebraska Council of School Administrators is pleased to recognize our new presidents-elect for the 2024-2025 year. Each affiliate president-elect is selected by their peers through the affiliate election process. We thank you for taking the time to vote and encourage you to always participate in the election process of your affiliate. It is a great honor to have been voted into office by your professional colleagues. We are very fortunate to have highly qualified and successful school administrators who are willing to run for leadership positions within their affiliates. We salute all those individuals who were willing to accept a nomination to have their name

on a ballot. Your affiliates remain strong because of quality administrators willing to lead.

In addition to their new roles within their affiliate associations, we would also like to welcome the presidents-elect and replacement board members to membership on the NCSA Executive Board, our organization’s governing body. The new Executive Board members are well qualified to serve and begin their official term on September 1, 2024. We look forward to their participation on the board and guidance of the organization.

We congratulate and welcome our new President-Elects:

NCSA Elects 2024-2025 Leadership

In addition, at the May 23, 2024, NCSA Board Meeting, elections were held for the 2024-2025 board leadership positions.

We are excited to announce the 2024-2025 Chair and Vice Chair of the NCSA Executive Board:

Chair - Dr. Dan Schnoes

Vice Chair - Mr. Nate Seggerman

Dr. Dawn Lewis Arlington Public Schools

Mrs. Shelly Leyden Falls City North Elementary School

NSASSP

Mr. Marc Kaminski Wahoo Middle School

NASBO

Mrs. Stacy Rodriguez Gering Public Schools

NASES

Mrs. Melissa Stolley Ralston Public Schools

July 23

July 24-26

July 31

Aug. 7

Aug. 7

Sept. 7

Sept. 11

Sept. 12-13

Sept. 18

Sept. 25-26

Oct. 2-3

Oct. 17

Oct. 30

Nov. 1

Nov. 20-22

Dec. 4-5

Dec. 11

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Title IX: New Requirements Training – YCC North – Kearney

Administrators' Days – YCC North – Kearney

Business Manager Training – NCSA Office and Virtual – Lincoln, NE

Preparing for Student Legal Issues – NCSA Office and Virtual – Lincoln, NE

Title IX: New Requirements Training – NCSA Office and Virtual – Lincoln, NE

NCSA Tailgate and Open House – NCSA Office – Lincoln, NE

NASES New Members – NCSA Office – Lincoln, NE

NASES Fall Conference – Embassy Suites – Lincoln, NE

School Law Update – NCSA Office and Virtual – Lincoln, NE

Educators Academy for Legislative Advocacy – NCSA Office – Lincoln, NE

Labor Relations – Embassy Suites – Lincoln, NE

Safety and Security Conference – YCC South – Kearney, NE

Emerging Superintendents Workshop – NCSA Office – Lincoln, NE

NE Fall Ed Tech Conference – YCC South – Kearney, NE

State Education Conference – CHI Center – Omaha, NE

State Principals Conference – Cornhuskers Marriott – Lincoln, NE*

Legislative Preview – NCSA Office and Virtual – Lincoln, NE

*Region meeting dates can be found on the NCSA website.

NATIONAL CONVENTION DATES

July 15-17, 2024

Sept. 18-21, 2024

March 6-8, 2025

NAESP & NASSP – Nashville, TN

ASBO – Nashville, TN

AASA – New Orleans, LA

GOLD SPONSORSHIP

American Fidelity

Wayne Ryan

wayne.ryan@americanfidelity.com 3100 SW Huntoon, #102 Topeka, KS 66604 (800) 365-1167 americanfidelity.com

BCDM Architects

Matthew Erion merion@bcdm.net 1015 N. 98th Street, Ste. 300 Omaha, NE 68114 402.391.2211 bcdm.net

Boyd Jones Construction

George Schuler gschuler@boydjones.biz 950 So. 10th Street, Ste. 100 Omaha, NE 68108 402-553-1804 boydjones.biz

BVH Architecture

Cleveland Reeves creeves@bvh.com Lincoln/Omaha/Denver 402-475-4551 bvh.com

Cheever Construction

Doug Klute dklute@cheeverconstruction.com 3425 North 44th Street Lincoln, Nebraska 68504 402-477-6745 cheeverconstruction.com

D.A. Davidson & Co.

Paul Grieger pgrieger@dadco.com 450 Regency Parkway, Ste. 400 Omaha, NE 68114 402-392-7986 dadavidson.com

Diode Technologies

Scott Pulverenti Scott.pulverenti@diodetech.net 242 SW 31st Street Lincoln, NE 68522 402-793-5124 diodetech.net

DLR Group

Vanessa Schutte vschutte@dlrgroup.com 6457 Frances Street, Ste. 200 Omaha, NE 68106 402-393-4100 dlrgroup.com

ESUCC

Kraig Lofquist klofquist@esucc.org 6949 So. 110th Street Omaha, NE 68128 402-597-4866 esucc.org

Facility Advocates

Dave Raymond draymond@facilityadvocates.com 3837 South 149th Street, Suite #102 Omaha, NE 68144 402-206-8777 facilityadvocates.com

Horace Mann

Keith Jorgensen keith.jorgensen@horacemann.com 617 Stolley Park Road Grand Island, NE 68801 402-290-3116 horacemann.com

National Insurance Services

Megan Ware mware@nisbenefits.com 11205 Wright Circle, Suite 104 Omaha, NE 68144 402-506-2170 nisbenefits.com

Nebraska Army National Guard

LTC Joseph A. Eggen joseph.a.eggen.mil@army.mil 2000 North 33rd Street Lincoln, NE 68503 402-309.7450 nationalguard.com/ne

Nebraska Liquid Asset Fund

Barry Ballou balloub@pfmam.com 455 So. 11th Street Lincoln, NE 68508 402-705-0350 nlafpool.org

Northland Securities, Inc.

Tobin Buchanan tbuchanan@fnni.com 1620 Dodge Street, Ste. 1104 Omaha, NE 68197 402-598-1218 northlandsecurities.com

Omnify

Andrea Howard andrea@omnifybenefits.com 3400 Plantation Dr Lincoln NE 68516 402-323-1803 omnifybenefits.com

OnToCollege

John Baylor john@ontocollege.com P.O. Box 30792 Lincoln, NE 68503 402-475-7737 ontocollege.com

TeamMates Mentoring Program

DeMoine Adams dadams@teammates.org 11615 Centennial Rd. #200 La Vista, NE 68128 teammates.org

Trane

Jonathan Hoesch Jonathan.hoesch@trane.com 11937 Portal Road, Ste. 100 LaVista, NE 68128 402-499-8468 tranetechnologies.com

UNANIMOUS

Matt O'Gorman matt@beunanimous.com

8600 Executive Woods, Ste. 300 Lincoln, NE 68512 402-423-5447

SILVER SPONSORSHIP

Clark & Enersen

Steve Miller

steve.miller@clarkenersen.com 1010 Lincoln Mall, Ste. #200 Lincoln, NE 68508 402-477-9291 clarkenersen.com

CMBA Architects

Troy Keilig

keilig.t@cmbaarchitects.com 208 N Pine St, Ste 301 Grand Island, NE 68801 308-384-4444 cmbaarchitects.com

Cognia

Shannon Vogler

shannon.vogler@cognia.org 9115 Westside Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30009 888-413-3669 Ext. 5801 cognia.org

Crouch Recreation, Inc.

Eric Crouch

nicole@crouchrec.com

1309 S 204th Street #330 Elkhorn, Ne 68022 402-496-2669 crouchrec.com

Cunningham Recreation / GameTime

Terri Strong

terri@cunninghamrec.com P.O. Box 240981 Charlotte, North Carolina 28224 800-438-2780 cunninghamrec.com

Humanex Ventures

Brad Black info@humanexventures.com 2900 S 70th Street, Ste. 100 Lincoln, NE 68506 402-486-2158 humanexventures.com

Kordica Communications

Annette Eyman, APR

Annette_Eyman@Kordica.com

222 S. 15th Street, Suite 221 N. Omaha, NE 68102 402-690-6992 kordica.com

Modern Images

Bradley Cooper

brad@champshots.com 13436 So. 217th Street Gretna, NE 68028 402-991-7786 misportsphotography.com

BRONZE SPONSORSHIP

Navitas, LLC

Shane Alexander

salexander@navitas.us.com 4816 S. 167th Street Omaha, NE 68135 402-360-3135 navitas.us.com

Piper Sandler & Company

Jay Spearman

Jay.Spearman@psc.com 11422 Miracle Hills Drive, Ste 408 Omaha, NE 68154 402-599-0307 pipersandler.com

Renaissance

Mark Kessler

Mark.Kessler@renaissance.com 2911 Peach Street Wisconsin Rapids, WI 55494 800-338-4204 ext. 4712 renaissance.com

Software Unlimited, Inc.

Corey Atkinson caa@su-inc.com 5015 S. Broadband Lane Sioux Falls, SD 57108 605-361-2073 su.inc.com

University of Nebraska

High School

Shauna Benjamin-Brice highschool@nebraska.edu

206 South 13th Street, Ste. 800 P.O. Box 880226 Lincoln, NE 68588 402-472-1922 highschool.nebraska.edu

BlazerWorks

Raul Giron

Raul.Giron@Blazerworks.com 5550 Peachtree Parkway Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 blazerworks.com

455 S 11th Street, Suite A • Lincoln, NE 68508-2105

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