Omaha Public Schools…An Inclusive Learning Community
“It is hardly possible to overstate the value, in the present state of human improvement, of placing human beings in contact with other persons dissimilar to themselves, and with modes of thought and action unlike those with which they are familiar.”
—John Stuart Mill, Philosopher, 1848
The theme for the Omaha Public Schools for the 2008-2009 school year is Omaha Public Schools…An Inclusive Learning Community. The diversity mission and vision statements of the School District of Omaha clearly articulate the importance of providing a learning environment where differences are respected, valued and celebrated. The quality of learning is enhanced in a climate of inclusion and where the instruction and achievement of every student are a priority.
A snapshot of the school district will reveal a picture of the rich tapestry of diversity woven throughout the schools and classrooms of the city where, for example, over 80 different languages are spoken in the homes of students. Current demographics of the student population demonstrate the diversity common to an urban school district—race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, socioeconomic status, abilities and religious affiliations—among youngsters and their families in the Omaha Public Schools.
Just as diversity is valued, the commonalities shared by all students are also important, respected and appreciated. Every child comes to school with the desire to learn and every family expects the best learning environment possible for their children. High expectations and high achievement are standard operating procedure for each youngster’s instructional program.
The educational communities in Douglas and Sarpy Counties have been given a unique opportunity to capitalize on the strengths of diversity in this community by providing equitable and integrated/inclusive schools and instructional programs for young people. Citizens and educators in this two-county area have a shared purpose of making available quality learning experiences that meet the needs of all children and prepare them for living and working in a future society that is more global than ever before in our history.
There is no better time than the present for the entire metropolitan area to capitalize on the opportunities for equitable and quality education for all children in the Omaha community. Teachers and administrators are not alone in meeting the challenges of educating a more diverse student body. The work of building a more inclusive community is shared by the many parent groups, businesses and philanthropic organizations and foundations that have provided, and continue to provide, generous support in human and material resources, resulting in Bright Futures for all children.
There are a variety of factors that contribute to the academic success of students and school excellence. Attention to inclusiveness is one of the characteristics of effective schools. Research studies have demonstrated that school district policies and practices which foster inclusive educational communities raise achievement levels for all students. In the inclusive learning environment, every effort is made to meet the needs of individual children. The well-being of every child matters and is valued by the community.
The policies and actions of the members of the Board of Education speak volumes to their commitment to educational equity for all children in an integrated/inclusive school community. We are grateful for the dedication and perseverance, time and expertise these men and women give to ensure quality educational experiences for students, staff and families in the Omaha Public Schools.
With the support and commitment to the best possible educational experiences for every young person in the school district by all the citizens of Omaha, the shared vision of the Omaha Public Schools…An Inclusive Learning Community will be more than a theme. It will be a reality that ensures academic success and a Bright Future for every child in Omaha.
John Mackiel
Superintendent, Omaha Public Schools