I believe that strong public schools mean strong, vibrant communities.
Omaha Public Schools are comprised of nearly 54,000 students. This is close to 10% of our city's population. Engaging our students in innovative programs and courses will enhance their learning experience and improve student outcomes. It will also aid in keeping them here in Omaha as residents, attending our local colleges and universities, and joining our local workforce.
Collaboration is the best tool in problem solving.
The Omaha Public Schools face unique challenges in Nebraska's public school environment including:
- A historically unprecedented pension shortfall impacting the financial welfare of our schools
- The perception of low student achievement outcomes when compared with surrounding school school districts due to unique barriers including high English Language Learner population and diverse socioeconomic status of families
The best way to address these challenges is head-on is through collaboration with stakeholders including educators, students, families, tax payers, and elected officials.
My experience in education and community building ensures successful outcomes and makes me the best candidate for this role.
With my experience as a special education paraprofessional, a high school English teacher, and a district level technology leader, I see the Omaha Public Schools through a unique, systemic lens.
My role as a community leader provides critical experience in board leadership. As a mentor for Girls Inc., a founding board member of a local animal rescue facility, and the current Secretary/Treasurer for the Omaha Public Library Board of Trustees, I demonstrate effective leadership and advocacy for all who I represent.
The health, safety and well-being of students and staff is critical for a positive learning environment.
As an experienced educator, Keegan understands the needs of a school community. In today's culture of lock-down drills, and school resource officers, Keegan believes that allocating resources which address student trauma and mental health are far more effective.
Keegan also advocates to eliminate the stigma of the mental health needs faced by educational staff. Counseling and mental health resources for staff are just as critical as their availability to the students. Educators can't fill from an empty cup!
Keegan also advocates to eliminate the stigma of the mental health needs faced by educational staff. Counseling and mental health resources for staff are just as critical as their availability to the students. Educators can't fill from an empty cup!
Technology access and digital connectivity for students and staff are more important than ever.
The COVID-19 pandemic has "forced the issue" when it comes to transitioning to a universally digital environment in the Omaha Public Schools. While no device will ever replace a teacher, digital devices and Internet connectivity are critical tools in driving learning and communication in today's educational environment.
I am the only candidate in this race who has both the experience as a classroom teacher and the system-wide lens of technology implementation to see to it that the large iPad purchase of the Omaha Public Schools is implemented with the supports necessary to ensure it is successful.
I am the only candidate in this race who has both the experience as a classroom teacher and the system-wide lens of technology implementation to see to it that the large iPad purchase of the Omaha Public Schools is implemented with the supports necessary to ensure it is successful.
