July 17, 2025 at 5:30 PM - Omaha Public Schools Board of Education and Educational Service Unit 19 Board Meeting

Rationale: 

Notice to visitors: If you wish to speak, please obtain a “Request to be Heard” form from the entry table and return the completed form to the table attendant or the Board of Education Director.

The agenda will be kept current and available for public inspection in the office of the Secretary of the Board of Education at the Administrative Building during regular working hours. 

Board members may request specific agenda item(s) be moved to a different place on the agenda.  Please attend the entire meeting to ensure you hear discussion on a particular agenda item.

Pursuant to Section 84-1412 of the Nebraska Statutes, the public is hereby informed that a current copy of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act is posted in the Board meeting room on the north wall.

Agenda items are subject to reordering at discretion of the board president, please attend the entire meeting to ensure you're able to hear any discussion. If you would like to rehear any discussion, please listen to our podcast located on the District Web Page, district.ops.org.

Rationale:  The Vision:  Every Student.  Every Day.  Prepared for Success.

The Mission:  To prepare all students for success in college, career, and life.

Rationale:  The Treasurer's Report for May 2025 is attached for review.

Rationale:  At this time, any Board member may request that any item in the consent agenda be removed from the consent agenda and be considered and voted on separately. 

Rationale:  FUND: 1 General
PROGRAM: 2311 Board of Education Costs
DEPT: 7043400 District Risk Management 
SUPPLIER: Great American Insurance Group
POLICY: 8120
AMOUNT: $5,378.00

In keeping with the provisions of Policy 8120, Section C, the Administration recommends the approval of the attached renewal of 7th & 8th Grade Athletic Insurance Coverage at the cost of $5,378.00 annually with Great American Insurance Group. This plan has been in place since 2008 and is due for renewal on August 1, 2025. The plan supports the estimated 3,200 7th and 8th grade student athletes. This plan is an excess Accident Medical Expense policy that covers all expenses up to $1,000,000.  The policy becomes effective once $25,000 has been incurred and benefits have been paid under all other applicable health plans. The annual premium is not increasing for the 2025-2026 school year, and coverage is provided at the 2020-2021 premium of $5,378.00.

Rationale:  In keeping with the provisions of Policy 8120, Section C, the Administration recommends that the Board approve offering a Voluntary Student Accident Insurance plan. This plan is provided by K&K and Axis, where parents can elect to purchase up to $25,000 of coverage for their student. This voluntary plan is parent paid with no District contribution. The premiums for parents are very reasonable, ranging from $20.00 per month to $357.00, depending on the type of coverage. These rates remain the same as the 2024-2025 school year. While individual policies are offered directly to the parent, the insurance is offered through the District. 

Rationale:  Per Board Policy No. 7000, X. B., Administration recommends that the Board of Education approve the attached signage recognizing the various individuals and organizations that made financial contributions totaling just over $2,950,000.00 to the Burke High Stadium Project, which was substantially complete on May 2, 2025 (Board approved substantial completion on June 2, 2025). 

The sign made of aluminum with the title "With Gratitude" in Burke High colors will be permanently attached to the west building.  This generous support provided just under 50% of the funding required for this major update of Burke Stadium.  The signage and its installation were funded as part of the overall project.

Rationale:  FUND: 174  Title I - Support for Improvement
PROGRAM: 2330  Executive Administrative Services
DEPT. ID: 7072002  School Improvement 
SUPPLIER:  Leading Educators
POLICIES: 7000, III.K, 7000, VII.A, 7000, VII.D
AMOUNT: $1,590,610.00

Administration recommends approval of the attached agreements with Leading Educators to provide professional development training and assistance as part of the Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) Grant and in support of our District’s Moonshot goal. As discussed more fully during the presentation to the Board on May 15, 2023, the CSI Grant is offered by the Nebraska Department of Education's (NDE) Accountability System (AQuESTT) to identify schools that need additional strategic instructional support.  CSI-designated schools submitted a continuous improvement plan to be approved by the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE).  As part of the various plans, the District and NDE have agreed that the District will provide additional professional development. The District will continue its ongoing partnership with Leading Educators to provide professional development and assistance beginning July 2025 and ending June 30, 2026 ($1,590,610.00).

CSI School	Fund	Department	Program	Class	Project
MIDDLE
Alfonza Davis Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	962026
Beveridge Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	962326
Bryan Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	960326
King Science Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	961626
Lewis and Clark Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	963126
McMillan Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	960826
Monroe Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	960926
Morton Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	963226
Nathan Hale Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	963426
Norris Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	961026
RM Marrs Middle	174	7072002	2330	901	963626
ELEMENTARY
Bancroft Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	962126
Beals Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	961226
Belvedere Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	962226
Benson West Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	960226
Central Park Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	960426
Conestoga Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	962526
Field Club Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	960526
Florence Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	961426
Fontenelle Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	960626
Gateway Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	962626
Jackson Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	962926
King Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	963026
Liberty Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	960726
Mount View Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	963326
Skinner Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	963626
Spring Lake Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	961926
Wakonda Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	961126
Walnut Hill Elementary	174	7072002	2330	901	963826

Rationale:  FUND: 4012 Prop Uninsured Loss Reserve
PROGRAM: 2591 Building and Sites
DEPT: 8770020 Lewis & Clark MS Facility
VENDOR: H2i Group, Inc.
POLICIES:  7000, IV., C. 
AMOUNT:    $207,626.00

Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 25-011 to H2i Group, Inc. for installation of a new gymnasium floor and associated components at a bid cost of $207,626.00. The existing gym floor received significant damage and required full removal following roof and drain line failure resulting from extreme straight-line winds on July 31, 2024. Work will commence following completion of the gym roof reskin to ensure the space is dry and will reach substantial completion prior to August 29, 2025.
H2i Group, Inc. was the only bidder.  Their bid was within expected pricing, met all specifications, and H2i Group, Inc., has successfully completed projects within budget and on time for Omaha Public Schools in the past. The total gym floor replacement amount is $207,626.00.

Rationale:  FUND: 42 - 2018 Bond Program Proceeds Fund
PROGRAM: 2620 Maintenance School/District Buildings
DEPT. ID: 7166600 Schoolhouse Planning          
SUPPLIER: Cerris Systems North Central, Inc.
POLICIES: 7000, III.K, 7000, VII.A, 7000, VII.D
AMOUNT: $677,500.00

Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 25-017 to Cerris Systems North Central, Inc. for the Blackburn VAVs (Variable Air Volume) boxes & HVAC Control Replacement Project. The work includes furnishing HVAC equipment, piping, and the electrical components required for replacing all of the VAV boxes in the facility, which include fan-powered, dual-duct, and shut-off with reheat VAV boxes; upgrading the existing controls system to a new system while reusing end devices such as relays, actuators, and pressure sensors; control valve upgrades for the entire school and calibrating all new terminal units. The new controls will replace antiquated controls of the HVAC systems to allow for automated control and monitoring of the building’s HVAC systems by the District's BAS (Building Automated System) module.  The VAVs throughout the building are beyond their useful life and are no longer serviceable. This upgrade will provide stable temperature and air quality conditions for students and staff throughout the building, while allowing the District to manage overall system performance and energy costs.

The District received four bid responses. The bid received from Cerris Systems North Central, Inc. was the lowest compliant bidder. This project is being funded with interest earned from the 2018 bond program bonds. The total price of the contract is $677,500.00. Unit prices have been provided for acceptance in the event that more or less of the control item design quantities are discovered during the project.

Vendor	*Cerris Systems North Central, Inc.	Eyman Plumbing, Inc.	Grunwald Mechanical	Ray Martin Company of Omaha
Lump Sum Base Bid	*$677,500.00	$952,300.00	$818,698.00	$689,700.00
Item	Unit Cost	Unit Cost	Unit Cost	Unit Cost
1/2" Control Valve	$958.00	$875.00	$1,523.00	$850.00
3/4" Control Valve	$1,125.00	$925.00	$1,693.00	$900.00
1" Control Valve	$1,144.00	$1,094.00	$1,825.00	$1,010.00
1-1/2" Control Valve	$1,368.00	$1,287.00	$1,998.00	$1,200.00
2" Control Valve	$1,864.00	$1,580.00	$2,271.00	$1,530.00
3" Control Valve	$2,648.00	$4,640.00	$4,966.00	$4,470.00
Control damper actuator	$735.00	$1,250.00	$1,100.00	$1,000.00
Duct Temperature Sensor	$227.00	$1,315.00	$1,200.00	$1,070.00
Water Temperature Sensor	$958.00	$1,355.00	$1,200.00	$1,825.00

*Awarded low-priced item meeting specifications from a compliant bidder

Rationale:  FUND: 1    General Fund
PROGRAM: 2520 Transportation - Other (5%)
2750 Transportation - Regular (1%)
2760 Transportation - SPED School Age (74%)
3102 Transportation - Early Childhood SPED Trans (22%)
DEPT: 7162800 Student Transportation
SUPPLIER: Yant Testing, Supply and Equipment   
POLICY:   7000, VII., 7000, III. D
AMOUNT: $239,144.00

Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 25-018 to Yant Testing, Supply and Equipment (Yant Equipment) for the OPS Transportation fuel pump replacement and software upgrades.  Yant Equipment will upgrade the fueling station by removing current pumps and replacing new, upgraded installations. The awardee will also clean underground tanks and check related piping for leaks. Additionally, the software that tracks mileage and fuel usage will be upgraded.

Midwest Petroleum Equipment and Yant Equipment were the only submitted proposals.  The District does not project a need to provide soil and/or soil compaction for this project, so $25,500.00 was removed from Yant Equipment’s proposal.  In addition, $1,470.59 per scaled ton was removed from Midwest Petroleum Equipment’s proposal for a related task of removing contaminated soil. This adjustment allows a fairer comparison analysis of each proposal. Based on review, Yant Equipment is the lowest bidder, and Administration recommends that they be awarded the fuel station project.  The total amount of the project is $239,144.00.
 

Tasks related to project scope of work	Midwest Petroleum Equipment	Yant Equipment
Four (4) Gasboy Atlas X single-grade, 2-hose commercial dispensers. One (1) diesel & Three (3) unleaded or equivalent	$40,326.58	$45,926.00
One (1) FuelMaster Pedestal (with updated cloud-based software)	$22,749.35	$25,199.00
Tank & fueling equipment including OPW flex works piping, fittings, 18" ATG Manways, and double-wall spill buckets	$36,933.38	$29,199.00
OPV,  3’x5’ steel formed islands, 36’ high U-Shaped bollards, under dispenser piping, 4" sch. 40 risers, and freight.	$5,808.37	$9,027.00
Tank cleaning (to switch products in tanks)	$4,717.65	$ 3,750.00
*Remove and Replace unsuitable fill	per scaled ton: $108.25	($25,500.00)
Test Backfill compaction	($1,470.59)	NB
Remove current pump island: Excavation—includes break out and removal of concrete, line removal and closure and soil sampling	$36,623.53	$37,750.00
Survey, obtain necessary permits, and obtain engineering support as needed.	$1,416.67	$1,500.00
Dispenser containment	$2,566.05	$9,355.00
Project permits as required by local and state regulations	$625.00	$1,000.00
Concrete replacement	$36,705.88	$ 40,000.00
Electrical labor and materials	$38,624.08	$ 19,750.00
Additional pipe or fittings as a result of unforeseen alterations for site work	$0.00	NB
Installation Labor, Project Management and Equipment.	$50,463.15	$ 36,688.00
Dumpster for trash removal	$2,117.65	$1,000.00
*Include as attachment: Costs related to inclement weathering in order to continue on site work.	NB	NB
*Include as attachment: Painting, Fencing, Landscaping (if deemed necessary after the pre-bid meeting)	NB	$4,500.00
Total:	$278,206.75	$239,144.00

Complete bid documentation contact traci.shobe@ops.org.

Rationale:  FUND:    4005 Nutrition Services Fund
PROGRAM: 2199 Other Student Support Services
DEPT:    7165000 Nutrition Services
SUPPLIER: Greenberg’s Produce
POLICIES: 5417, 7000, IV.C.
AMOUNT: $1,249,000.00    
                  
Pursuant to Policy 5417, these products are a part of the District’s healthy school breakfast and lunch program for all students.  Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 25-023 to Greenberg’s Produce for the purchase of Produce Products for the 2025-2026 school year.  Bid Documents were provided to six suppliers, but only received two responses. Pekarek Produce was deemed non-compliant as they cannot provide volume or a year-round supply for the 2025-2026 school year.
The total amount awarded to Greenberg’s Produce is $1,249,000,00.

This marks the 7th consecutive year OPS has partnered with Greenberg’s as our main provider of produce products.
 

VENDOR	BID
Greenberg’s Produce*	$1,249,000*
Pekarek’s Produce**	$9,500 NC

NC indicates Non-Compliant Supplier

Complete bid documentation contact Eduardo.acosta@ops.org.
 

Rationale:  FUND: 31 Special Building Fund
DEPT. ID: 7166600 Schoolhouse Planning
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Support Services
SUPPLIER: Downs Electric Inc.
POLICIES: 7000, III.K, 7000, VII.A, 7000, VII.D 
AMOUNT: $249,250.00          

Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 25-029 to Downs Electric Inc. for the OPS Mills - Electrical Service Replacement project.  This project will relocate and replace the building’s high-voltage electrical switch gear connected to the primary electrical service, which provides electric service to the entire building. The new switch gear will replace the existing one, which has reached its end-of-life cycle and is no longer serviceable.  The work will take place in coordination with OPPD, who will remove the electrical transformer from within the building and install a new pad-mounted transformer on the exterior.  

The District received two bid responses. The bid received from Downs Electric Inc. was the lowest compliant bidder. The total price of the contract is $249,250.00.
           
Bids received were:
 

Vendor	Base Bid
*Downs Electric Inc.	$249,250.00
Electrical Service Group	$302,778.00

*Apparent Low Bidder meeting the specifications.                                                                            

For complete bid documentation contact philip.connatser@ops.org.

Rationale:  FUND: 31 Special Building Fund 
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Support Services 
DEPT: 7166600 Schoolhouse Planning 
SUPPLIER: Downs Electric, Inc. 
POLICY: 7000, IV.C. 
AMOUNT: $3,770.63
 
Administration recommends approval of change order No. 002 for Downs Electric, Inc. on Bid No. 24-056 for Electrical for OPS Burke High Stadium Improvements Project which the Board approved on September 5, 2024. 
 

PCO -07	Provide pathway and junction box for installation of owner provided camera not included in original specifications.	Add	$739.27
PCO -08	Remove irrigation controllers and associated control wiring in east and west stadium buildings. Provide new wiring and reinstall existing controllers in new location. The relocation of sprinkler controls and wiring was not included in the original electrical scope.	Add	$7,672.73
PCO -09	Provide and install Dante Interface Controller and connect to the existing AV system. The new interface was requested to allow for better network stability when running AV signal to the stadium AV component.	Add	$836.00
PCO -10	Deduct for electrical scope no longer required as part of the relocation and reconfiguration of the hydration stations.	Deduct	($14,000.00)
PCO -011	Install electrical heaters in the pipe chase behind restroom 108 and restroom 113. The heaters will protect the plumbing piping into below freezing temperatures from freezing. This was recommended  during construction due to the chases being located at an outside wall of the Western exposure of the building.	Add	$5,125.00
PCO -012	Install 24 strand fiber in lieu of the 12 strand fiber requested in the bid documents from the east stadium building to the west stadium building. The increase of fiber count was requested to allow for future network expansion and better connectivity between the stadium buildings.	Add	$3,397.63

 

Total Amount of Change Order No. 001 Add	$3,770.63
Original Contract Amount:	$ 702,000.00
Previously Approved Changes:	$61,315.64
Change Order No. 001 - Add	$3,770.63
Total Revised Contract Amount:	$767,086.27*
Amount Paid to Date	$ 725,149.86
Amount Remaining	$ 41,936.41*

Rationale:  FUND: 31 Special Building Fund
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Service Support
DEPT ID: 71666000 Schoolhouse Planning
SUPPLIER: Eyman Plumbing
POLICY: 7000, IV.C
AMOUNT: $13,865.86

Administration recommends approval of Change Order No. 02 for Eyman Plumbing, Inc. on Bid No. 24-054 for Plumbing for OPS Burke High Stadium Improvements Project which the Board approved on September 5, 2024.
 

PCO - 07	Supply and install trench drains at ADA platforms at west side of stadium to allow for drainage of existing pavement creating a safer environment for guests.	Add	$6,079.00
PCO - 08	Reroute existing sprinkler piping to new location within the west stadium building pipe chase. Routing of existing sprinkler supply and distribution piping interferes with the installation of new footing and needs to be relocated to accommodate.	Add	$7,786.86

Total Amount of Change Order No. 01 Add	$ 13,865.86
Original Contract Amount:	$740,677.00
Previously Approved Changes:	$56,535.79
Total Revised Contract Amount:	$811,078.65
Amount Paid to Date	$729,970.78
Amount Remaining	$81,107.87

Rationale:  The Board of Education is required by State Statute 79-584 to approve all expenditures of District funds.  Expenditures are presented to the Board for approval in the form of a Claims Report.  Claims Report A is a listing of all District expenditures and are organized and presented to the Board by which fund the expenditure is being made from (e.g. General Fund, Bond Fund, etc.).

Rationale:  The Board of Education is required by State Statute 79-584 to approve all expenditures of funds for which the District serves as custodian.  Expenditures are presented to the Board for approval in the form of a Claims Report.  Claims Report B is a listing of expenditures from the various Student Activity Funds for which the Board serves as custodian.

Rationale:  Board Members are prohibited by Nebraska law from voting on items which may personally benefit them.  Expenditures which may personally benefit individual Board Members are presented to the Board for approval in the form of a separate Claims Report in order to permit those Board Members to abstain from voting on items which may personally benefit them.  The Board of Education is required by State Statute 79-584 to approve all expenditures of District funds.  Claims Report C is a listing of expenditures that may relate to individual Board Members or Organizations that employ them.

Rationale:  The Board of Education is required by State Statute 79-584 to approve all expenditures of District funds.  Payroll expenditures are presented to the Board for ratification in the form of a Claims Report.  Claims Report D is a summary of payrolls processed and is presented by payroll and pay date.

Rationale:  The Board of Education is required by State Statute 79-584 to approve all expenditures of District funds.  Payroll expenditures are presented to the Board for ratification in the form of a Claims Report.  Claims Report E is an estimation of payrolls to be processed prior to the next Board meeting and is presented by payroll and pay date.  Board authorization is requested for amounts not to exceed the totals in the Claims Report.

Rationale:  The Board of Education serves as the Board of Educational Service Unit 19.  The Board of Educational Service Unit 19 is required to approve all expenditures of District funds as well as funds for which the District serves as custodian.  Expenditures are presented to the Board for approval in the form of a Claims Report.  Educational Service Unit No. 19 Claims Report is a listing of all expenditures to be paid from the Education Service Unit's funds.

Rationale:  State Statue 79-584 requires the Secretary to the Board of Education to audit all accounts of the Class V school district and to submit that audit to the Board of Education Audit Committee for review and approval.   The objective of the audit is to obtain and review sufficient claim documentation to determine the risk of material misstatement.   The audit methodology is set forth on the Claims Audit Report.

Rationale:  FUND: 5190 ESU 19 Information and Management Services
PROGRAM: 2250 Instructional Support Services
DEPT ID: 7062545 Student Data Information Systems
SUPPLIER: Alfuth Enterprises LLC
POLICY: 7000, III.K., 7000, V.D.
AMOUNT: Estimated $120,000.00

Administration recommends approval of the attached consulting services agreement with Alfuth Enterprises, LLC, to support the District’s lead student information database systems administrator in managing online staging, production environments, and data migrations. The consultant will provide additional support for developing and maintaining the student data archive system and student assessment system. An agreement for the 2024-2025 school year was signed by the Board of Education on October 7, 2024. The cost incurred under the last agreement totaled $78,000 for eight months of work. This agreement provides services as needed but not to exceed 20 hours per week through July 31, 2026, at $120.00 per hour.  The total estimated cost is $120,000.00.
 

Rationale:  FUND:  42 - 2018 Bond Program Proceeds Fund
PROGRAM:  2620 Maintenance School/District Buildings
DEPT. ID: 7166600 Schoolhouse Planning         
SUPPLIER: 7er Group, LLC, dba 7er Construction
POLICIES: 7000, III.K, 7000, VII.A, 7000, VII.D
AMOUNT:  $448,000.00

Administration recommends approval of the contract with 7er Group, LLC, Doing Business As, 7er Construction for the Lewis & Clark Middle School ACP Suite Improvements Project. The work shall include all electrical, low-voltage, framing, doors, door frames, hardware, and finishes required to remodel existing spaces utilized by the ACP program into two classrooms, one restroom, two sensory rooms, and a kitchen/life skills area at Lewis & Clark Middle School. The remodel will provide spaces that better accommodate the educational and physical needs of students in the program. Attached is the contract for Bid 25-022 that was awarded to 7er Construction at the June 2, 2025, Board of Education meeting.  The total price of the contract is $448,000.00.
 

Rationale:  In keeping with the requirements of Nebraska Revised Statute sections 79-817 to 79-822 as well as Nebraska Revised Statute sections 79-2401 to 79-2405 (Educational Administrator Pay Transparency Act), Administration recommends approval of the agreement with Kanyon Chism, Ed.D. to serve as Administrator of ESU #19 for the 2025-2026 School Year as well as the applicable Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice, both of which are attached.  Administration notes an overstatement in the Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice, related to Dr. Chism’s compensation in the 2025-2026 school year. Like all eligible employees, Dr. Chism’s length of service with Omaha Public Schools allows unused leave time to be converted for payment upon separation from the school district. All Dr. Chism’s unused leave is required by law to be counted as payment in the Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice and thus creates a notice that inaccurately reflects her total compensation. That includes $43,961.82 of accrued but unused vacation, and $2,691.54 for unused personal days, totaling $46,653.36.  These amounts were accrued by Dr. Chism throughout her previous years of service to the District and are not new compensation under this agreement.  Of the listed amount, only $10,766.16 can be cashed out during the 2025-2026 school year without separating from the school district. The remaining $35,887.20 is only payable upon separation from employment. The Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice overstates Dr. Chism’s total potential compensation for the 2025-2026 year by $35,887.20.  The actual compensation total for the 2025-2026 school year would be $304,204.99. 

Rationale:  Funds: 1, 153   General Fund, Special Education - IDEA
Department: 7194010   Special Education Administration
Programs: 1214, 1215, 1222, 1231, 1234, 1235,1236, 1265, 1266, 1270 - Speech Therapy School Age, Speech Therapy Ages 3-5, Nursing Services, Nonpublic Therapists, Nonpublic Teachers, Tuition to Agencies
Project: 461025, 461026, 460025, 460026 - IDEA Base/EP Grant
Policy: 7000 
Amount:  $3,978,240.00

Administration recommends approval of the attached annual Special Education Services contracts.  Every year, the Special Education Division, within Curriculum and Instruction Support, negotiates and renews contracts with outside agencies for special education services that are required under Rule 51 and Rule 52.  This is the second set of agency contracts going to the Board of Education for approval for the 2025-2026 school year and is part of the District's annual practice.  In keeping with the provisions in Policy 7000, contracts that may exceed $50,000 are being placed on the agenda for Board of Education approval. Attached you will find: a service provider rate sheet, contracts and a contract cost sheet for your review for contracts that exceed or may exceed $50,000. The contract rate sheet includes NDE approved rates for services that need to be purchased by Omaha Public Schools from outside agencies that will provide special education services to students ages birth-21. The contract cost sheet includes the agency, address, type of service the agency provides, the estimated number of students that receive services from that agency and 2025-2026 contract rate. The sheet includes an estimate of the total cost for special education services provided by contract agencies. The rates and contracts are budgeted for within the 2025-2026 school year. Per their agreement with Omaha Public Schools, all providers must receive NDE approval to provide special education and related services. The total cost to the District for this group is estimated to be $3,978,240.00 and is an allowable reimbursable special education expenditure. 

Rationale:  FUND:  177, Misc. State Grants
PROGRAM:  1160 Gifted Programs
DEPT:  7193010, Secondary Education Admin
PROJECT:  478925, High Ability Learners - FY25
SUPPLIER:  Cengage Learning
POLICIES: 6121, 7000, V., G
AMOUNT:  $2,921.63

Administration recommends approval of the Data Protection Agreement and Terms and Conditions with Cengage Learning to purchase Multivariable Calculus in print form plus one year of digital access to support advanced high school mathematics instruction at Westview High School. This item is being presented to the Board for approval in keeping with the provisions of Policy 6121,which requires approval by the Board of curricular materials. In keeping with the bid exceptions contained within Policy 7000, Section V., G (Academic Prerogative), no bid was required for this purchase. The total cost of the purchase is $2,921.63

Rationale:  FUND: 1, General Fund
PROGRAM:  2241, Library Services
DEPT: 7193010, Secondary Education Admin.
SUPPLIER: Britannica Education
POLICIES: 7000, V. A.
AMOUNT: $35,540.00
 
Administration recommends renewing the licensing subscription for the Britannica School and Britannica Spanish Online Database for the 2025-2026 school year. Britannica School is a K-12 online encyclopedia that allows all OPS students to conduct research using high-quality, up-to-date materials that have been professionally reviewed. Britannica Spanish provides access to similar information in a Spanish language format. This platform allows students to toggle between three reading levels, have articles read aloud, and use Merriam-Webster’s dictionary to hear pronunciations and view definitions in English or Spanish. This purchase maintains District compliance with the Rule 10 requirement that all schools have at least one set of encyclopedias available in either print or electronic format with a copyright date within the last five years. In keeping with the provisions of Policy 7000, V.A., no bid was required for this purchase because it falls under the exception to bidding procedures as an academic prerogative. The total price of this purchase is $35,540.00.

Rationale:  FUND: 156  Head Start/Early Head Start
PROGRAM: 3201  Early Childhood
DEPT: 0660085 Head Start Grant   
POLICIES: 3570, Section 642 Head Start Act
AMOUNT:  $9,202,203.00

In keeping with 42 U.S.C. 9837 (also known as Section 642 of the Head Start Act), the Board of Education serves as the Governing Body for Head Start.  Under the Head Start Act, the Board of Education has legal and fiscal responsibility for the Head Start program and is required to review and approve all applications for funding.  Moreover, in accordance with Policy 3570, it is the policy of the District to comply with federal grant programs in which the District participates.  Head Start is one such program.  As such, the Administration recommends approval of the Head Start Fiscal Year 2026 Continuation Head Start grant budget.  This budget application will allow the District-operated Head Start program to support 747 Head Start students and 152 Early Head Start students.  

Rationale:  FUND: 4070 Depreciation Reserve Fund
DEPT: 7062560 Districtwide Technology
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Support Services
SUPPLIER: Apple Inc.
POLICIES: 7000, III. K.,7000, V. G.
AMOUNT: $11,155,125.00

Administration recommends approval of the Master Lease Purchase Agreement to enable the purchase of 8000 "OPS Elementary Success" bundles and 8000 "OPS Secondary Success" bundles for student use in the 2025-2026 school year as well as 500 "OPS Outstanding Teacher" bundles for deployment to new teachers in the 2025-2026 school year. 

While the purchase was approved at the June 16, 2025, Board meeting, the Master Lease Purchase Agreement also requires Board approval. The total purchase of $11,155,125.00 will be financed with Apple at 0% interest and broken into four yearly payments of $2,788,781.25.
 
In keeping with the provision of policy 7000, V.G., no bid was required for these purchases because Apple is the sole source provider.

Rationale:  The Accountability Committee recommends approval of a one-year extension of the Agreement for Mr. Ray to serve as Superintendent as well as the applicable Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice, both of which are attached.  The extension means the agreement will continue through June 30, 2028.  The agreement provides that Mr. Ray’s base salary will increase to Three Hundred Forty-Four Thousand Seventy-One Dollars and Twenty-Five Cents ($344,071.25) and will receive benefits that mirror those provided to the previous Superintendent. The increase to Mr. Ray’s salary amounts to 2.25% of his previous salary which is identical to that received by all other employees of the District for the 2025-2026 school year.   

The Accountability Committee notes an overstatement in the Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice, related to Mr. Ray’s compensation in the 2025-2028 school years. Like all eligible employees, Mr. Ray’s length of service with Omaha Public Schools allows unused leave time to be converted for payment upon separation from the school district. All Mr. Ray’s unused leave is required by law to be counted as payment in the Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice and thus creates a notice that inaccurately reflects his total compensation. That includes $97,699.31 for accrued sick leave, $66,107.24 of accrued but unused vacation, and $4,047.38 for unused personal days, totaling $167,853.93.  These amounts were accrued by Mr. Ray throughout his previous years of service to the District and are not new compensation under this agreement.  Of the listed amount, only $16,189.53 can be cashed out during the 2025-2026 school year without separating from the school district. The remaining $151,664.40 is only payable upon separation from employment. The Superintendent Pay Transparency Notice overstates Mr. Ray’s total potential compensation for the 2025-2026 year by $151,664.40.  The actual compensation total for the 2025-2026 school year would be $493,015.65.  Mr. Ray's compensation for future years is similarly overstated.

Rationale:  Pursuant to Policy 7000, IX, A, 1., Administration recommends approval of a permanent right-of-way easement at 8050 North 129th Avenue, Omaha, NE 68142 (Alfonza W. Davis Middle School) with OPPD. The parcel includes approximately three thousand three hundred and twenty-seven (3,327) square feet at the northwest corner of the property. The easement will allow for the construction and maintenance of a new electrical monopole and new electrical transmission lines within the right-of-way.
OPPD will provide compensation of $1,800.00 for this permanent easement.
 

Rationale:  Policy 4001 and 4035 require that the election of employees shall be by action of the Board of Education upon recommendation of the Superintendent or designee.  Additionally, Policy 4008 requires that the Chief Human Resources Officer process all retirements, resignations, cancellations, contract amendments and terminations of employment making a recommendation for appropriate action to the Superintendent and Board of Education.  Therefore, the District recommends the approval of the attached Staffing Adjustments. 

Rationale:  Fund: 176, 1, Misc. Federal Grants, General
Department 7198170, English As a Second Language
Program 1170, English Language Learners
Grant 464925, Title III LEP FY25
Board Policy 7000, V., G, 6121
Amount $79,200, $102,000

Administration requests approval of an agreement to purchase additional ThinkCERCA licenses for the 2025-2026 through 2030-2031 school years. On May 20, 2024, the Board of Education approved the adoption of ThinkCERCA as a curriculum resource for secondary ESL courses. Purchasing additional licenses will expand the use of the curriculum resources for elementary and middle-level English Learners who have been in the EL program for more than five years, providing intentional literacy support to meet proficiency on the ELPA21 Summative assessment and exit the English Learner program. Omaha Public Schools data shows that students who meet proficiency on the ELPA21 Summative and exit the English Learner program are the group most likely to graduate from high school. This six-year agreement will align with the original adoption purchase. This item is being presented to the Board for approval in keeping with the provisions of Policy 6121,which requires approval by the Board of curricular materials. In keeping with the bid exceptions contained within Policy 7000, Section V., G (Academic Prerogative), no bid was required for this purchase. The total cost of this purchase is $181,200.

Rationale:  Fund: 176, Federal Grants
Department: 7105800, Student and Community Services
Program: 2110, Student and Community Services
Project: 499625, Title IV A Student Support Academic Enrichment
Policy:  7000,V., G., 6121
Total:  $255,000.00

Administration recommends approval to purchase Edmentum software to be utilized by high school students for credit recovery in the 2025-26 school year. Edmentum provides credit recovery opportunities to Omaha Public Schools high school students that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive and increases the number of students on-track for a timely high school graduation. This curriculum aligns with course standards and is being presented to the Board for approval in keeping with the provisions of Policy 6121, which requires approval by the Board of curricular materials. In keeping with the bid exceptions contained within Policy 7000, Section V., G. (Academic Prerogative), no bid was required for this purchase.   The total cost of this purchase is $255,000.00.
 

Rationale:  At the March 10, 2025, Board Meeting, the Board approved exercising the first one-year extension of the WAN services contract, originally established through Bid No. 20-011 and approved on January 23, 2020. The approved extension runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, at the existing rate of $56,260.00 per month, with no changes to the total annual cost of $713,400.00. The WAN connects all schools and District buildings to a high-speed data network, providing fast and reliable service essential for standardized testing, digital curriculum delivery, security systems, and daily operations. This service is partially funded through the E-Rate program and, while leased, remains under District control to ensure network security and flexibility for future needs.

Following that approval, United Private Networks requested a revised Statement of Understanding to accompany the extension. The purpose of this updated SOU is to clean up and clarify the list of network circuits provided under the contract. Specifically, this updated document:

Corrects site names listed in the original agreement to reflect current, accurate building names.
Removes circuits for school sites that are no longer served.
Updates the format and order of the circuit list for clarity and record-keeping.

These adjustments do not change the services being provided, the circuit IDs, or the monthly cost to the District. It simply ensures the contract documentation matches the actual, existing network setup. Administration recommends approval of the revised Statement of Understanding to maintain clear, accurate contract records while continuing to provide high-speed, reliable network connectivity for all District schools and buildings.
 

Rationale:  Supplier:  Walsworth Yearbooks
Policies:  7000 III.K., VII.A.
Amount:  $81,140.00

Administration recommends approval of the attached contracts with Walsworth Publishing Company, Inc. for yearbook agreements with Benson High, Bluestem Middle, Bryan Middle, Buena Vista High, Buffett Middle, North High, South High, and Westview High for the 2025-2026 school year.  Walsworth is one of three yearbook vendors approved by the Board of Education at the June 17, 2025, Board meeting. As the total of the contracts together is over $50,000, these attached contracts are being presented to the Board for approval pursuant to Board policy 7000, III.K. and 7000, VII. A. The total amount of the eight agreements is $81,140.00.

Rationale:  FUND: 01 , General Fund
PROGRAM: 1100 Regular Instruction
DEPT: 7193010, Secondary Education Administrative
SUPPLIER: United Way of the Midlands (Jobs for America’s Graduates - JAG Program)
POLICY: 7000 III.K., VII.A.
AMOUNT: $110,000.00

Administration recommends approval of a continued Master Services Agreement between Omaha Public Schools and United Way of the Midlands for the operation of the Jobs for America’s Graduates Program (JAG).  JAG is currently engaged in programming at Bryan Middle, Nathan Hale, King Science, Marrs, Monroe, and Norris Middle Schools, Benson, Bryan Sr., Buena Vista, Northwest, and South High Schools There is a cost of $10,000 per site, per school year. JAG, through the United Way of the Midlands, serves students as they focus on 87 competencies through its evidence-based programming to connect students to building workplace and life skills through a service provider relationship for school credit during the school day. The total cost of this program for 2025-2026 is $110,000.00.
 

Rationale:  FUND: 4005 Nutrition Services Fund
PROGRAM: 2199 Other Student Support Services
DEPT: 7165000 Nutrition Services
SUPPLIER: Performance Foodservice - Omaha
POLICIES: 5417, 7000, IV.C.
AMOUNT: $19,680,000.00      
                
Pursuant to Policy 5417, these products are a part of the District’s healthy school breakfast and lunch program for all students. Administration recommends acceptance of the second option year of the optional extensions as per contract with Performance Foodservice - Omaha for food and supply products (paper serving trays, plastic eating utensils, canned vegetables, frozen foods, pot and pan soap, dish soap, etc.) for the 2025-2026 school year. This is the second year of three additional option years for the contract that was originally entered into on June 15, 2023. The first option was approved by the Board of Education on May 6, 2024. The total amount for the 2025-2026 school year is $19,680,000.00. Omaha Public Schools has been doing business with Performance Foodservice, formerly known as Reinhardt Foods, since 2017.

Rationale:  In keeping with the provisions of Policy 1402, Administration requests approval of the attached site plan and design concept for the new North High Stadium.  On April 7, 2025, the Board of Education approved the Funding Agreement with the Omaha Public Schools Foundation (OPSF), which had entered into an agreement with various funders who desire to construct a new stadium at North High School. 

This project, known as Project Game On, is a collaboration between Omaha Public Schools, YMCA of Greater Omaha, City of Omaha, The Lozier Foundation, The Sherwood Foundation, NewStreet Properties, Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture, and Emspace + Lovgren to provide a game-changing stadium for North High as a part of a larger project.   The new stadium will be constructed on the land immediately to the East of North High School, which is currently owned by the YMCA.  The funding agreement approved on April 7, 2025, was conditioned in part on District approval of the Project design. 

Administration recommends approval of the attached site plan and design concept from Alley Poyner Maccietto Architecture for the new North Stadium.  Per the approved funding agreement, the project will be entirely funded through OPSF and its funding partners.
 

Rationale:  Pursuant to Policy 3090, Administration recommends approval of the sale of the attached lists of items which include miscellaneous surplus items.  The sale will be held online by The Auction Mill L.L.C., public auction on July 17, 2025 through July 27, 2025. The District is selling the surplus items "AS IS" since they are no longer usable by the District.

The District will pay 10% of the gross proceeds of sale for any vehicles sold. The title transfer fee of $25.00 will be charged to the individual purchasing the vehicle. Auction Mill L.L.C., will receive 20% of the gross proceeds of the sale of miscellaneous surplus items.

The Administration further requests that the Board of Education authorize the Superintendent or his designee to sign all necessary transfer documents upon payment in full by the purchasers.

Rationale:  Staff recommends approval of the attached Letter in support of the Benson High School Foundation for improvements to Gallagher Park.  In 2024-25, Gallagher Park underwent significant renovations, thanks to the largest gift ever made to the Omaha Parks Foundation—$1.35 million. These improvements included a restored fountain, pool upgrades, new walkways, a fountain plaza, and a refurbished basketball area. The redesign also created space for relocating the existing softball field to the northeast corner of the park, making way for a brand-new baseball field on the current softball field site. The Foundation is proposing to raise the funds necessary to fund the construction of the new baseball and softball fields.  Once the Foundation has raised the necessary funds, the District, the Foundation and any other necessary parties will enter into a Funding Agreement which will set forth the terms and conditions for completion of the project.  All of those agreements would require future approval of the Board.

Rationale:  Pursuant to Policy 7000, IX, A, 1., Administration recommends approval of a permanent easement of approximately ninety-eight (98) square feet of property located at 5120 Maple Street (Benson High School) for $330.00 to the City of Omaha, Nebraska, for use by the Public Works Department for a permanent sidewalk and traffic signal as they continue infrastructure upgrades in the area.   This easement would be at the intersection of 52nd Street and Bedford Avenue as outlined in the attached legal description.   
The City of Omaha, Nebraska, would provide compensation in the amount of $330.00 for this permanent easement. 
 

Rationale:  Administration recommends that the Board of Education, in keeping with the provisions of Policy 8348 paragraph B, voluntarily recognize SEIU Local 226 as the collective bargaining representative of the District’s Social Workers.  Local 226 has represented that it has obtained authorization cards from a majority of the Social Workers employed by the District.  Administration believes that the Family Support Workers share a sufficient community of interest to satisfy the requirement of Policy 8348. 

Rationale:  The Chair of the Budget and Audit Committee will provide an update.

Rationale:  The Chair of the Legislative Committee will provide an update.

Rationale:  The Chair of the Policy Committee will provide an update.
 

Rationale:  Policy 8120 stipulates the Board of Education shall cause policies and regulations to be revised as necessary.  The Policy Committee will provide recommended changes to the following policies:

5100 - Behavior Management
5102 - Eligibility for Students Who Participate in Extra-Curriculur Activities
Proposed Policy 5105 - Use of Electronic Communication Devices
5301 - Dress Code and Grooming
5419 - Parent, Guardian, and/or Educational Decisionmaker Involvement and Student Privacy Protection Policy
6300 - Selection and Review of Instructional and Library Material
8342 - Designated Method of Giving Notice of Meetings

Rationale: 

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval for adoption of the updated Nebraska College and Career Standards for Science as presented on July 17, 2025, and as approved by the Nebraska State Board of Education in September 2024, for grades K-12. Per the Nebraska statute, the Omaha Public Schools Board of Education has one year following the state Board adoption of new content standards to approve adoption. Staff will work with teachers to support the adoption of these standards.

Rationale:  FUND: 1  General Fund
DEPT.: 7062000 Default Dept. for Non-Expend
ACCOUNT: 45401 Sale of Surplus Inventory Items for Auction
PROGRAM: 2500 Default Non-Expenditure Program
POLICIES: 3090 Sales and Disposal of Books, Equipment, and Supplies
AMOUNT:                                            $42,950.40

Pursuant to Policy 3090, Administration is reporting the financial results from the district surplus auction held online from April 13 through April 27. The surplus auction was approved at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, April 7, 2025, providing $42,950.40 in funds to the District, as shown below.

Miscellaneous Sales                                         $52,813.00
Nutrition Services Sales                                         $875.00
Gross Amount                                                    $53,688.00

Less Commission of 20% From
Miscellaneous/Nutrition Sales

Total of subtracted cost:                                      $10,737.60
Net to the district                                                 $42,950.40
 

Rationale:  This document provides the Board of Education with monthly Head Start information regarding attendance and enrollment, meal counts, in-kind amounts, health requirements, policy council minutes, delegate reports, and program information summaries to maintain a communication structure to support oversight responsibilities as stated in Head Start Performance Standard 1301.2. 

Rationale:  The Omaha Board of Education is authorized by state statute to hold closed sessions.  Closed sessions may be held when clearly necessary for the protection of the public interest or for the prevention of needless injury to the reputation of an individual.  Reasons that meet this standard include but are not limited to:  (a) strategy sessions with respect to collective bargaining, real estate matters, pending litigation, or litigation which is imminent as evidenced by communication of a claim or threat of litigation to or by the public body; (b) discussion regarding deployment of security personnel or devices; (c) investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct; (d) evaluation of the job performance of a person when necessary to prevent needless injury to the reputation of a person and if such person has not requested a public meeting; and (e) legal advice.