The first day of school brings excitement for staff and students. The new year also means a fresh start with room for growth.
During the past year, Omaha Public Schools spent months preparing for new curriculum in our classrooms. This is one part of our district’s focus on improvement. Teams also reviewed data around student engagement in our classrooms and publicly shared the many ways Omaha Public Schools measures student progress.
Changes in our classrooms, like updated curriculum materials, present a new way to work more closely with our families.
“We want to provide resources and information on how best to support student learning and their experiences,” said Crystal Boyd, Omaha Public Schools ombudsperson supervisor. “We prioritize creating a safe and inclusive environment where students and families can freely ask questions and provide input so we can understand their needs.”
For parents like Elisa Esteban, back-to-school events offer that opportunity. She attended Buena Vista High’s orientation this month with her kids.
“I’ll have two high schoolers this year,” said Esteban. “The orientation is helpful to make sure we have everything up to date and helps them be prepared for what they're going to do and what classes they're going to take.”
Schools districtwide host back-to-school events to connect with families before the first day of classes. The events offer paperwork assistance, help for families who have questions about class schedules and the opportunity for students to meet their teachers.
“It’s an opportunity to make that first day of school a little bit more comfortable,” said Katie McWilliams, Buena Vista High curriculum specialist. “We see more parents and families, and it's because people want to come, feel welcome and know the building.”
Omaha Public Schools student enrollment fair is another option for families new to our district or those who moved over the summer. Families can register their children, learn about transportation options and update contact information.
“Our goal is to support families,” said Boyd. “We give them a voice, advocate for them and provide resources to help their children be successful.”
Families can monitor their student’s academic progress all year through Omaha Public Schools parent portal. The portal provides access to class schedules, grades and attendance records. Our Community Resource Directory includes resources about after-school programs, youth services, housing assistance and other needs.
“We want to provide resources and information on how best to support student learning and their experiences,” said Boyd.
Omaha Public Schools Back to School Guide available at ops.org is another resource for families as the new year gets underway. It includes calends, breakfast and lunch menus, calendars and more.
Aug. 2024
