Libraries throughout Omaha Public Schools offer a place for students to read and so much more. Prairie Wind Elementary librarian Lucie Ripley says they also provide hands-on learning experiences.

“I want our students to be excited to learn,” said Ripley. “Not only are students having fun creating games or 3D images, but they are learning valuable skills to lead them through life.

A Makerspace grant helped Ripley purchase materials for coding and design. Students collaborate on projects that help develop skills aligned with the Portrait of an Omaha Public Schools graduate.

“The students are excited and passionate about learning these computer programming skills,” said Ripley. “My favorite part is they are learning to be problem solvers while creatively using technology.”

Ripley’s career began at Prairie Wind Elementary in 2006 as a kindergarten teacher. She has served as librarian for the past five years and enjoys teaching students literacy and technology skills.

"I want students to see themselves in our library. I want them to be comfortable and enjoy learning,” said Ripley. “I strive to provide technology that will teach them the skills and give them the confidence to follow them throughout their lives.”

Ripley is one of many librarians in our district. Omaha Public Schools is celebrating the impact they have on student learning as part of National School Library Month, which takes place each year in April.