Update from Superintendent Matthew Ray in the Sept. 23, 2024, Inside OPS Newsletter

Mr. Ray expressed gratitude to Northwest High's students, staff and families and provided an update on the work to come in the September edition of Inside OPS.

 

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Board of Education and Superintendent Statements at Sept. 16, 2024, Board of Education Meeting

Board Member Shavonna Holman, Ed.D., and Superintendent Matthew Ray shared updates and information about our steps in support of Northwest High students, staff and families, and the internal review that will take place. 

Watch the entire Sept. 16, 2024, Board of Education Regular Meeting on YouTube.

 

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All District Message on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, from Chief Student and Community Services Officer Lisa Utterback

A safe, welcoming environment is always our top priority. We care deeply about our students and staff. We understand the concern and emotions many people feel right now. 

As fellow students, staff and families process what happened at Northwest High, we are aware of multiple social media posts with concerning statements about the safety of other schools, both in our district and across the metro area.  

Our district safety team and law enforcement act immediately on those reports. The Omaha Police Department has shared that, so far, none of the threats are credible. 

When we are already facing uncertainty, rumors and misinformation spread even more quickly. It adds to our anxiety.  

We can all support the safety and well-being of our students, staff and families by: 

• Reporting concerns to people who can help. Sharing as much information as possible, including the original post, with school leaders, law enforcement or Safe2Help Nebraska. Each student iPad has a link to Safe2Help Nebraska. 

• Talking with students. Remind young people about the value of thoughtful choices and communicating respectfully. Especially in times of uncertainty. Threats, in-person or on social media, have consequences. 

• Supporting young people. Encourage open dialogue with your child about their feelings and concerns. Reassure them that safety is paramount. Remind them to share concerns with trusted adults or Safe2Help Nebraska. 

We appreciate your partnership and support in promoting a safe, welcoming school environment for everyone.

 

Lisa Utterback
Chief Student and Community Services Officer
Omaha Public Schools 

 

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Message to the Omaha Public Schools Community from Superintendent Matthew Ray on Sept. 10, 2024

Omaha Public Schools community,

Our schools are special communities. Every day, 8,000 staff learn and grow alongside 52,000 amazing young people. That means everything to me.

We are devastated by what happened at Northwest High today. Our thoughts are with the young person who was hurt and their family.

Thank you to the Northwest High students and staff who showed incredible courage while following our Standard Response Protocol. Thank you to the law enforcement officers and first responders who rushed in to help. As a parent, I know the wait to reunite with students must be agonizing for families. We are so grateful for their patience and grace.

We will cooperate fully with the investigation to come. The safety and well-being of our students and staff is always our top priority. We take our layers of safety measures most seriously.

Supports are available for Northwest High students and staff. Students, families and staff throughout our school district can access resources at any time through Safe2Help Nebraska and our Omaha Public Schools Employee Assistance Program.

If you ever have concerns, please contact a school administrator, law enforcement or Safe2Help Nebraska at 1-833-980-7233.

Please give yourself grace as we navigate the time ahead. Look out for one another and speak up if someone needs help.

Matt

 

Matthew Ray
Superintendent
Omaha Public Schools