As we plan for future school years, we also want to remind families why attendance matters. Missing 10 percent of the school year, about 18 days, can significantly affect student success at all grade levels. In the early grades, strong attendance supports reading development. In middle and high school, regular attendance is closely connected to academic progress and graduation.
Improving attendance is a shared responsibility, and small habits make a big difference. Planning vacations and appointments outside of school days, maintaining consistent routines, and staying connected with your child’s school all help students succeed.
Every day in class builds learning, confidence, and connection.
Every Day Counts. Attendance Matters.
2025-2026 Calendar - https://tinyurl.com/mrmc9d6n
2026-2027 Calendar - https://tinyurl.com/ck3td335
2027-2028 Calendar - https://tinyurl.com/3s8y3s24
NO SCHOOL TOMORROW
Due to forecasted cold temperatures and safety concerns during morning arrival time, Gretna Public Schools will be CLOSED tomorrow, January 23, 2026. Any activities and events will be communicated directly by buildings, coaches and sponsors.
Please stay warm and safe.
Gretna Public Schools educators participated in a districtwide Professional Development Day featuring breakout sessions on instruction, technology, wellness, and leadership, concluding with a keynote by Stephen Mackey on school culture and educator impact. Read more at https://www.gpsne.org/article/2642761 #BeGretnaGreat
Attention: We Are Hiring School Bus Drivers!
Our school district is looking for caring, dependable individuals to help transport our students safely to and from school each day.
If you enjoy working with children and want a meaningful role in your community, we’d love to have you on our team! Apply at www.gpsne.org
Gretna, NE – December 9, 2025
Gretna Public Schools is thrilled to announce Dr. Kendra Schneider as the new Director of Special Education, effective July 1, 2026, following Paul Duin’s retirement. Dr. Schneider has served as Assistant Director since 2021, leading program supervision, compliance, and professional learning initiatives.
“I’m extremely excited to serve as the Director of Special Education for Gretna Public Schools,” Dr. Schneider said. “Paul Duin has been an incredible mentor, and I’m honored to build upon the strong foundation and high-quality programs established by him and Deb Siemers, the previous Director of Special Education. I look forward to working alongside our talented special education team, collaborating with families, and ensuring every student receives the support they need. Gretna Public Schools’ commitment to excellence in special education is evident, and I’m eager to contribute to our continued growth and success.”
Superintendent Travis Lightle added, “We are excited to announce Dr. Schneider as our new Director of Special Education. Her leadership over the last five years has led to positive changes in our district, and our department’s retention rate remains the envy of the state because of it. Dr. Schneider’s experience and genuine dedication to Gretna Public Schools make her the ideal person to continue advancing our programs.”
Dr. Schneider brings more than 20 years of experience in special education and also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. She holds a Doctorate and two Master’s degrees from the University of Nebraska and is actively involved in statewide initiatives advancing special education.
Gretna Public Schools Board of Education Attends 2025 NASB State Education Conference
The Gretna Public Schools Board of Education spent two days at the 2025 NASB State Education Conference—Nebraska’s largest annual gathering for school board leaders. The event provides valuable training and collaboration on key topics such as legislative updates, emerging educational trends, student well-being, school safety, school finance, and effective district governance.
By participating, board members bring back insights that support informed decision-making and strengthen the long-term success of Gretna Public Schools. We appreciate their dedication to professional growth and continued service to our students, staff, and community.
