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Celebrate Public Education in Omaha
Guest Columnist:
John J. Mackiel
Superintendent of Omaha Public Schools and graduate of Leadership Omaha Class 4.
“Omaha Public Schools…150 Years of Building the Future” is a mantra celebrating the history and accomplishments of a century and a half of commitment to the principles and ideals of public education in the Omaha community. For over 150 years, the School District of Omaha has educated successive generations of Omaha’s children. The present efforts of maintaining a system of vibrant, free public schools has been established on the work of past generations of leaders who envisioned universal education that is equal, equitable and available to all children and young people.
The legacy of strong, enthusiastic leadership throughout the history of the school district has created a strong foundation for the outstanding educational opportunities available to present-day youngsters who enjoy modern, state-of–the-art facilities and learning resources to prepare them for future life in the twenty-first century. Students and teachers who used the first computer—the abacus—would be astounded at today’s high speed, ultra modern technology that provides instantaneous answers at the press of a button. Today’s challenges to educate a workforce for the future demand unique, talented individuals who have the skills to lead young people to develop to their highest potential.
Dedicated and committed teachers, administrators and school board members are the leaders who make the greatest difference in preparing productive citizens to ensure a prosperous and vibrant community. It is the advocacy of persons whose chosen profession is devoted to daily serving 25 to 150 young people and the unselfish gifts of time and expertise of members of school boards who devote countless hours to govern in the best interests of children that are the bricks and mortar building the future of this community.
As we look ahead to the next 150 years, the need for citizens to be actively and fully involved in education and the business of public schools is more important than ever. Leaders in every profession are encouraged to consider serving the best interests of young people by sharing talents and expertise as a member of a board of education. The preservation of free, public education for every child in America depends on citizens willing to give service on school boards and provide the advocacy and leadership essential for high quality education.
Thank you to Leadership Omaha and the Greater Omaha Chamber for the support and skill development of so many effective leaders in the Omaha Public Schools and in companies and organizations throughout metropolitan area. Our common vision of developing individuals of all ages who will lead and positively transform communities gives promise to a bright future for the next 150 years.