With a grand celebration, Omaha Public Schools unveiled its final new school completed as a part of the 2018 bond program. Bluestem Middle will open its doors in August for the start of the 2023-24 school year.

The celebration included a tour, staff introductions and a meet and greet with the school’s mascot. The future home of the Mighty Meadowlarks can serve up to 1,000 students. Bluestem Middle’s design, naming and mascot decision included student and family collaboration.

“We're really thrilled for our students, for our community, for our teachers,” Bluestem Middle Principal Brian Begley said. “There is a tremendous amount of excitement and pride. And one of the values of the Omaha Public Schools is joy. There's plenty of joy around here today. Without a doubt.”

Students will enjoy features including STEM suites and a second-floor library with large windows. Staff will enhance their teaching with access to new collaboration areas. The 177,000-square-foot facility is located next to Gateway Early Learning Center and Gateway Elementary for a campus effect. Bluestem Middle will also feature a track and field complex.

“We are delighted to be here, thanks to the voters of this great school district and community to celebrate the opening of Bluestem Middle,” Superintendent Cheryl Logan, Ed.D. said. “The pride we feel today will only be surpassed when the students enter in just a few short weeks to enjoy a learning environment that is not only beautiful, but provides them with all of the learning opportunities they deserve.”

August’s opening marks a key milestone for our district after Pine and Forest Station Elementaries and Westview and Buena Vista Highs opened in 2022. Each school is an investment from the Omaha Public Schools bond program. The $409.9 million bond, approved by voters in 2018, included 25 projects. In addition to our new schools, work continues to improve existing schools and programs.

“Our community showed their faith in us by giving us the bond to work with our kids and build outstanding educational environments for our kids,” said Charles Wakefield, Omaha Public Schools chief operations and talent services officer.

A comprehensive list of other bond program projects is updated regularly on our website.