Gretna Public Schools

We’re proud of our young artists. Eight talented Gretna Public Schools students in grades 3–5 entered the Optimist Club’s art contest, creating pieces based on the theme “Bringing Out the Best.” The Optimist Club selected the top three entries, and today those winners were invited to share their artwork at the Optimist Club breakfast. Each student received a set of notecards featuring their artwork on the front, and the Optimist Club will use additional printed sets as Thank You notes. Congratulations to our winners (pictured left to right): Cora Michalski, 3rd grade, Whitetail Leah Pedersen, 3rd grade, Palisades Harper Doeden, 3rd grade, Whitetail #BeGretnaGreat #StudentSuccess #GretnaPride #BringingOutTheBest

Attention all residents of Gretna! You will soon receive mail from the Gretna Public School District regarding the census, which must be completed as soon as possible. The great news is that you don’t have to wait for the mail! You can complete the census using one of the following three methods: • Go directly to the form at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScS7yXo4YjhWgSZw-9dII8BaAAcqckBlQE0o6RQfyztsi-z8w/viewform • Scan the QR code. • Visit www.gpsne.org and select “GPS Census”.

Palisades Elementary shined on April 30 during our incredible Art Show! The creativity and talent of our students were on full display, and we couldn't be prouder. A huge thank you to Mrs. Turczak for your dedication and hard work in bringing this night to life — it was truly wonderful! Catch a glimpse of the evening here: https://youtu.be/ODEo9J4h8m0 #BeGretnaGreat #PalisadesPride #ArtShow2025

Gretna Educator Helps Guide CS Instruction at NETA Kim Ingraham-Beck, technology teacher at both Gretna High School and Gretna East High School, recently presented a breakout session at the Nebraska Educational Technology Association (NETA) Conference titled “I'm Teaching CS, Now What?” With Nebraska’s new computer science standards now required at every grade level, Kim’s session focused on helping educators—whether new or experienced—develop a clearer understanding of how to implement effective CS instruction. She provided practical strategies, classroom-tested resources, and ideas for boosting student engagement. Her work supports fellow educators while continuing to position Gretna Public Schools as a leader in technology integration and computer science education. #BeGretnaGreat #NETA2025 #ComputerScienceEducation #InstructionalLeadership #GretnaPublicSchools #EdTech

Gretna Staff Member Presents at NETA Conference At this year’s Nebraska Educational Technology Association (NETA) Conference, Gretna East and Gretna High School Instructional Technology Coach Trina Popple led a session titled “The Great Escape: Designing Digital Escape Rooms to Boost Engagement.” Her presentation demonstrated how educators can use Genially to build digital escape rooms that serve as review games, encouraging students to collaborate, problem-solve, and stay engaged. The session was well attended and offered practical strategies for integrating technology into instruction. This presentation reflects the ongoing efforts of Gretna Public Schools staff to bring forward-thinking, student-centered approaches to the classroom. #BeGretnaGreat #NETA2025 #DigitalLearning #EdTech #InstructionalTechnology #GretnaPublicSchools

Anannya Sahu, a 7th grader at Aspen Creek Middle School, won 1st place in the 2025 Virginia Frank Memorial Contest. She was one of 80 students in the 7th grade category and stood out among more than 350 applicants. Anannya’s creative fiction piece—featuring characters from books she loves—earned her the opportunity to present at UNO to parents, fellow winners, Omaha Public Library board members, and the executive director of OPL. In one of her first submissions, she earned $100 for herself and $100 for the Aspen Creek Middle School Library. Congratulations to Anannya for representing ACMS and Gretna with excellence.

For more than 15 years, Gretna Public Schools' third graders have participated in a one-of-a-kind tradition: a history tour of Old Gretna led by the Superintendent. From the original jail and blacksmith shop to the first schoolhouse site, students explore key pieces of the town’s past while gaining pride in their community. #BeGretnaGreat #GretnaGuardians #GPSHistoryTour

When creativity connects classrooms, amazing things happen! First graders at Aspen Creek Elementary teamed up with art students from Gretna East High School for a special project that brought imagination to life. Each elementary student created a unique monster drawing in art class, which was then transformed into a real-life sculpture by the talented members of the GEHS Art Club. From sketch to sculpture, this collaboration was a powerful reminder that art inspires, connects, and builds community—no matter your age. This is what it means to Be Gretna Great—collaborating across schools, empowering students to lead, and using creativity to make meaningful connections. Huge shoutout to Mrs. Kelly at Aspen Creek Elementary and Mr. Kruse at Gretna East High School for making this magical partnership possible! #BeGretnaGreat

Don't miss out on summer fun! It's not too late to sign up for camps through the Gretna Playbook. The Playbook is your go-to guide for all summer camps at Gretna East and Gretna High Schools. Whether your child is in elementary, middle, or high school, there's something for everyone—based on the grade they’ll be entering in 2025-2026. The best part? It’s easy to sign up using the QR codes in the Playbook. You can also find more details at: https://tinyurl.com/4csk3k5v Start planning your child’s summer today! #BeGretnaGreat #GretnaPlaybook

All Gretna Public Schools kindergarten and first-grade students experienced the magic of Mission Imagination with the Omaha Symphony at the Gretna High School theater. This interactive performance brought music to life and sparked creativity in our young learners. Thank you, Omaha Symphony, for this incredible experience. #BeGretnaGreat #MusicMatters

We had a special visitor at the board meeting this evening! A big thank you to Jeff Kaiser from the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office and his amazing service dog, Henry. Jeff shared how Henry, who he adopted at six weeks old and has since trained, provides comfort and builds relationships with both staff and students. Henry’s incredible ability to sense and support those experiencing trauma is truly heartwarming. We are grateful for this partnership and the positive impact it has on navigating both big and small challenges. Thank you, Jeff and Henry, for all you do! #GretnaGreat #CommunityPartnership

A Special Moment! We had a very special visitor at the district office. This adorable Kindergartener stopped by to see her framed artwork proudly displayed on our wall. We love showcasing student creativity and are so grateful for the beautiful pieces that brighten our hallways throughout the year. If your child has artwork displayed here, we would love for them to stop by and see it—feel free to visit and take a photo!

Introducing the first-ever Gretna Playbook! Your one-stop guide to all summer camps at Gretna East & Gretna High Schools. Whether your child is in elementary, middle, or high school, there is a camp for them-based on the grade your child will be entering in 2025-2026. These camps are open to all students-no matter which high school they will attend. QR codes for easy registration! Start planning your summer fun today! You can also find more details on our school websites' News sections. https://tinyurl.com/4csk3k5v #BeGretnaGreat #GretnaPlaybook

Introducing the first-ever Gretna Playbook! Your one-stop guide to all summer camps at Gretna East & Gretna High Schools. Whether your child is in elementary, middle, or high school, there is a camp for them-based on the grade your child will be entering in 2025-2026. These camps are open to all students-no matter which high school they will attend. QR codes for easy registration! Start planning your summer fun today! You can also find more details on our school websites' News sections. https://tinyurl.com/4csk3k5v #BeGretnaGreat #GretnaPlaybook

Important Update for Gretna Families Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, Gretna Public Schools will implement a new 10-point grading scale and transition to an A-F reporting system. This change is part of our District Strategic Plan and is backed by research from our K-12 District Grading Committee. Read the full news article on the district and any school website. New Grading Scale (2025-2026): A: 90-100 B: 80-89 C: 70-79 D: 60-69 F: Below 60 Why the Change? • Better alignment with colleges and other schools • Clearer representation of student achievement Timeline: • Fall 2025: New grading scale begins • 2025-2026: Ongoing updates to grading practices What about past grades? Grades earned before 2025-2026 will remain the same and not be adjusted. We’re committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all! For more details, read the full news article on any district and school website or reach out to your school administrator. #BeGretnaGreat #BuildingAFutureTogether #GradingUpdate

NO SCHOOL TOMORROW Due to inclement weather and expected hazardous road conditions, Gretna Public Schools will be CLOSED tomorrow, March 5, 2025. Additionally, Kids Connection will be closed and Kids Connection Registration scheduled for tomorrow evening is rescheduled for Thursday from 4:00–7:00 PM. Please stay safe, and we will provide updates as needed. Thank you for your understanding.

Due to the upcoming weather conditions, all buildings will close at 6:00 PM tonight. Elementary Conferences and Kids Connection Registration will also end at 6:00 PM. Teachers will reach out to reschedule if needed. If you opt for a phone conference this evening, please contact your teacher.

Celebrating Our Oratorical Contest Winners The Gretna Optimist Club sponsors the annual Oratorical Contest, providing young people with a platform to express their perspectives on the world. This year’s topic, “How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times,” encouraged students to reflect on personal, national, or historical experiences—helping them develop both written and spoken expression skills while competing for college scholarships. One of the judges, Kathy Johnson, shared, “I was moved in all sorts of emotional directions by these students’ stories. People just really have no idea of the weight kids carry.” Theresa Huttman, Oratorical Contest Coordinator, added, “I always look forward to this particular Optimist event. I’m amazed by the bravery these students show in choosing to participate. They share their vulnerabilities in a competitive public speaking format, which most people would never choose to do. We are so very proud of each and every one of them.” Superintendent Travis Lightle says, “Public speaking is a fear for many, so it’s truly impressive to see four high school students step up and share how optimism has helped them overcome adversity. Our future is in good hands.” Congratulations to our winners: Avery Johnson (GEHS) – 1st Place Makayla Ingram (GHS) – 2nd Place Alice Drummond (GHS) – 3rd Place Gavin Luthi (GHS) – 4th Place Each district-level winner will receive a scholarship to use at a college, university, or trade school. We are incredibly proud of these students for sharing their voices and embracing the power of optimism. #BeGretnaGreat

Gretna High School Choirs Hit the Right Note Evolution, Mod Ac, Concert Choir, and Revolution took their talents to Harvest Hills today, filling the gym with music and energy. They didn’t just perform—they put on a show. Thinking about joining? This could be you next time. Music, friendships, and standing ovations are all part of the deal. #BeGretnaGreat #GretnaChoirs

The school board has approved updated middle school boundaries for the 2025-2026 school year with the opening of Giles Creek Middle School. These changes help balance enrollment and maintain strong educational opportunities. You can read the full article here: https://www.gpsne.org/article/2048704. Please visit our website and click Boundary Map on the header. View the interactive map and select “Middle 25-26” to see where your student will attend next year: https://www.gpsne.org/page/boundary-map.