Change your plans and get ready to cheer earlier than expected. The Gretna East State Championship Game has been moved to 1:00 PM tomorrow (instead of 5:30 PM). Catch the action on Nebraska Public Television as we support the Griffins! #BeGretnaGreat #GretnaEast #StateChamps
3 days ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna East Griffin logo with text reading "Important Announcement"
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
9 days ago, Gretna Public School District
the three winning students holding their artwork for a "Bringing Out the Best" contest
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”.
15 days ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public Schools logo with QR code to Census link and text reading Please Respond ASAP
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
17 days ago, Gretna Public School District
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
20 days ago, Gretna Public School District
GHS and GEHS teacher in front of an audience with screen presenting teaching material
high school teacher in front of a large screen presenting teachable machine to audience
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
20 days ago, Gretna Public School District
large crowd gathered in a conference room while GHS teacher presents her designs
teacher speaking to a crowd in front of a large audience with The Great Escape on screen
large group gathered in conference room to learn from GHS teacher about creating engaging games for students
teacher presenting to a packed house on "The Great Escape" shown on the screen about creating games for students to boost engagment
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.
21 days ago, Aspen Creek Middle School
Anannya Sahu speaking at UNO in front of fellow winners.
Anannya Sahu posing with flowers and 1st place award for the 2025 Virginia Frank Memorial Contest.
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
about 1 month ago, Gretna Public School District
Superintendent Travis Lightle leaning over the front of a bus seat speaking into a mic talking to the elementary students on the bus tour of Gretna
photo inside a bus tour of Gretna of students raising their hands
Superintendent Travis Lightle speaking to a bus full of students on the history tour of Gretna
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
about 1 month ago, Gretna Public School District
students posing for the camera with their clay monsters ]
a tray of clay monsters sitting on top of their sketched versions
photo of monster sketches and clay creations
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
about 1 month ago, Gretna Public School District
Images of kids in summer camp and text reading Gretna Playbook: Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun!
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
about 2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public School kindergarten and 1st graders sitting in the audience enjoying the performance by Omaha symphony on the stage.
the view of the gretna high school auditorium stage as the seats are filled with the heads of kindergarten and 1st graders
the students in the audience are rattling shakers as the performers on the stage interact with the students
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
about 2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
IMG_7445
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!
2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Kindergarten Artwork District Office
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
2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna public schools logo with a g and text reading 2025 Summer Camps Gretna Playbook
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
2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna public schools logo with a g and text reading 2025 Summer Camps Gretna Playbook
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
2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Text Reading new 10-Point Grading Scale with the Gretna Public Schools logo.  Image of grading scale can be read in the article below.
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.
3 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public Schools logo with a G and text reading Important Message
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.
3 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public Schools logo with a G and text reading Important Message
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
3 months ago, Gretna Public School District
four winners wearing their medals for the speech contest posing in the board room at the district office
guests attending the speech contest in the board room at the district office
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
3 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna High School Evolution choir performing in front for PreK-5th Grade Harvest Hills students.
Harvest Hills Elementary students waiting for Gretna High School performance in the gym
Gretna High School ModAc performing for Harvest Hills Elementary in the gym.
Nathan Wallace orchestrating Gretna High School Choir at a Harvest Hills Elementary performance
Gretna High School Revolution performing at Harvest Hills Elementary school in the gym.