August 3, 2026 at 6:00 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.

The Moonshot: All students will read on grade level by 2030.

Rationale:  The Treasurer's Report for June 2026 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:  Pursuant to Policy 7003, F.4., Administration is submitting the Substantial Completion of the Mills Building Electrical Service Replacement Project to the Board of Education for acceptance, consistent with established district practice.
 

Contractor	Project	Substantial Completion Date
Downes Electrical, Inc.	Mills Building Electrical Service Replacement	May 27, 2026

The Substantial Completion date marks the commencement of the one-year warranty period as defined in the contract documents. Establishing this contractual date provides consistency in warranty administration and reflects that the District had beneficial use and occupancy of the facility prior to final acceptance.
 

Rationale:  Acceptance of this four-year grant from the Omaha Public Schools Foundation will strengthen the district's capacity for systemic access to dual enrollment and advanced academic opportunities, supporting college, career, and life readiness for students. Activities detailed in Exhibit A include student navigation, teacher credentialing, professional learning, and program evaluation. The total amount of the grant is $4,549,752.07.
 

Rationale:  FUND: 1, General
PROGRAM: 1100, Regular Instruction
DEPARTMENT: 7193010, Secondary Education Administration
POLICIES: 6213
AMOUNT: $80,000.00 (maximum)

In keeping with the provisions of Policy 6213, Administration recommends approval of a renewed contract with Metropolitan Community College (MCC) to continue the Gateway to College program. Gateway to College is a nationally recognized scholarship and dual-credit high school diploma completion program. Omaha Public Schools provides this opportunity through the Multiple Pathways program to students ages 16-20 who are either at high risk of leaving high school or who have left high school without earning a diploma and choose to return to education and complete a high school diploma while earning college credit at MCC. All courses are dual credit and students earn college and high school credits at the same time. Courses align to meet high school graduation requirements. All courses are held on campus at Metropolitan Community College. A new, one-year contract for the 2026-27 academic year is proposed with an $80,000.00 cap. The cap remains unchanged from past years. The term of this contract is September 1, 2026 through May 31, 2027. This will be the final year that Omaha Public Schools offers the Gateway to College program.

Rationale:  FUND: 5193 ESU19 ERP System Fund
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Services Support
DEPT: 7062560 District wide Technology
SUPPLIER: Information & Computing Services, Inc.
POLICY; 7000,III.k, 7000, V.D.
AMOUNT: $297,525.71

Administration recommends approval of an agreement with Information & Computing Services, Inc. (ICS) for the implementation and subscription of the RF-SMART inventory and asset management solution integrated with the District’s new Oracle Cloud ERP system. The solution will provide barcode-enabled inventory management, fixed asset tracking, receiving, delivery, labeling, cycle counting, and warehouse management functionality to improve inventory accuracy, operational efficiency, and accountability of District assets.

The agreement includes a five-year software subscription, support, and maintenance term, beginning November 2, 2026, and ending November 1, 2031. The annual cost is $49,999.94, with a total contract value of $249,999.71 over the five-year period. Services include software licensing, support, inventory management users, fixed asset users, and labeling and printing functionality. In addition, the District will enter into a fixed-fee implementation services agreement totaling $47,526.00 to configure, test, train staff, conduct user acceptance testing, and support deployment of the system. The implementation will include inventory receiving, material transfers, cycle counts, delivery tracking, fixed asset management, and label printing workflows. 

The RF-SMART platform will enhance the District’s ability to manage warehouse inventory and fixed assets through mobile barcode scanning and real-time integration with Oracle Cloud, supporting improved operational controls, inventory visibility, and asset accountability across District operations.  The total cost of the five (5) year agreement is $297,525.71.

Rationale:  The following Board member will be appointed to the Nebraska Association of School Boards (NASB) Legislation Committee:

• Kimara Snipes - Legislation Committee Member #1 (term will end December 31, 2030)

Rationale:  FUND: 1 - General Fund
PROGRAM: 2510 - Business Support Services
DEPT. ID: 7062100 - Accounting & Finance Office
PROJECT: N/A
CLASS: 000 - Default
SUPPLIER: Armored Knights, Inc.
POLICY: 7000, III.K., 7000, VII. A.
AMOUNT: $205,000.00 (estimated) annually with monthly billing based on activity

Administration recommends approval of the contract with Armored Knights for Bid P012-26 Armored Car Services. This agreement will provide armored car money courier services each weekday at 87 school sites, TAC administrative sites and special or on-call pickups on weekends or after hours with delivery to specified financial institutions. The term of the contract is three (3) years commencing with Board approval, with an option to extend for up to two (2) additional terms of one (1) year each for a potential total of five (5) years. The estimated amount of the contract is $205,000.00 per year based on the average number of trips by the armored courier annually. 

Rationale:  FUND: 4005 Nutrition Services Fund
PROGRAM: 2199 Other Student Support Services
DEPT: 7165000 Nutrition Services
SUPPLIER: Rotella’s Italian Bakery
POLICIES:  7000, III
AMOUNT:  $789,144.00  

Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 26-040 and contract to Rotella’s Italian Bakery for the purchase of Bread Products for the 2026-27 school year for students. These Bread Products are a part of the District’s healthy school breakfast and lunch program for all students.
 
The District received two bid responses. Pan O Gold is not compliant for bidding on 5 of 17 items in total. Additionally, they would not be able to provide whole wheat or gluten-free bread choices for students.  Rotella’s Italian Bakery has been providing bread products for student meals since the 1999 school year. The total amount awarded to Rotella’s Italian Bakery for the 2026-27 school year is $789,150.00.

Supplier	Total price for Bid 26-040
Rotella’s Italian Bakery	$ 789,144.00
Pan O Gold	$ N/C

For complete bid documentation, contact Rande.Galus@ops.org.

Rationale:  FUND:    4005 Nutrition Services Fund
PROGRAM: 2199 Other Student Support Services
DEPT:    7165000 Nutrition Services
SUPPLIER: Greenberg’s Produce ($1,395,619.00)
SUPPLIER: Pekarek’s Produce ($10,750.00)
POLICIES: 7000.III
AMOUNT: $1,395,619.00 and $10,750.00 respectively            
         
Administration recommends approval of Bid No. 26-045 and contract for the purchase of fresh produce products to support student meal programs during the 2026-27 school year. The recommendation includes awarding Greenberg’s Produce the contract for general produce products in the amount of $1,395,619.00 and Pekarek’s Produce the bid for locally grown produce products in the amount of $10,750.00. The Pekarek's purchases will be completed through purchase orders. 

These products are an integral component of the District’s healthy breakfast and lunch program, ensuring students have access to fresh, nutritious food throughout the school year. The total recommended award amount is $1,406,369.00.
 

VENDOR	AMOUNT
Greenbergs Produce*	$1,395,619*
Pekarek’s Produce**	$10,750**

**Local producers who cannot provide volume or year-round supply for 2026-27 School Year.
 

Rationale:  FUND: 31 - Special Building Fund
PROGRAM:  2510 - Business Support Services
DEPT. ID: 540020 - Dundee Elementary Facility
SUPPLIER: Downs Electric, Inc.
POLICY:   7000 IV., C.
AMOUNT: $125,750.00

Administration recommends approval to award Bid No. 26-046 to Downs Electric, Inc., for Dundee Emergency Generator Replacement. The work will include removal of the current inoperative emergency generator and automatic transfer switch, reinstallation of a new generator and two automatic transfer switches. The project is scheduled to start September 1, 2026 and reach Substantial Completion by March 19, 2027. 

Downs Electric is the responsible offeror whose proposal is most advantageous to the District with price and other factors considered.  The total price of the bid is $125,750.00.

Bids received were:

Contractor	Amount
Downs Electric*	$125,750.00
Tru Volt Electric	$146,920.00

For complete bid documentation contact john.neal@ops.org.

 

Rationale:  FUND: 31 Special Building Fund 
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Support Services 
DEPT.: 7166600 Schoolhouse Planning
SUPPLIER: Downs Electric, Inc.
POLICIES:  7000, IV.C.  
AMOUNT:  $2,189.73
 
Administration recommends approval of change order No. 01 for Bid No. 25-029 to Downs Electric, Inc. for the OPS Mills - Electrical Service Replacement Project, which was approved by the Board on October 6, 2025. Funding for this project is provided through the District's Special Building Fund, which is restricted to the ongoing maintenance and improvement of District facilities and may not be transferred to or used for General Fund purposes.
Changes are as follows:
 

RFP 001

Infill windows with cast-in-place concrete in lieu of CMU blocks, due to poor existing conditions, to ensure structural stability.

Add

$2,189.73

 

Total Amount of Change Order No. 01 Add	$ 2,189.73
Original Contract Amount:	$ 249,250.00
Previously Approved Changes:	$ 0.00
Change Order No. 001 - Add	$ 2,189.73
Total Revised Contract Amount:	$ 251,439.73
Amount Paid to Date	$226,295.76
Amount Remaining	$25,143.97

Rationale:  FUND: 31 Special Building Fund 
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Support Services 
DEPT.: 7166600 Schoolhouse Planning
SUPPLIER: Kingery Construction Co.
POLICIES:  7000, IV.C.  
AMOUNT:  $15,280.71
 
Administration recommends approval of change order No. 003 for Bid No. 26-036 to Kingery Construction Co. for the OPS - TAC Student & Community Services Renovation Project which was approved by the Board on March 23, 2026. Funding for this project is provided through the District's Special Building Fund, which is restricted to the ongoing maintenance and improvement of District facilities and may not be transferred to or used for General Fund purposes.
Changes are as follows:

PCO 07	Reroute an active 2" plumbing waste vent that  was not on the as built drawings and discovered in a wall being demolished that needs to remain in place.	Add	$3,779.74
PCO 08	Relocate the exterior hose bib to avoid the new window frame.	Add	$730.34
PCO 11	Furr out the wall behind the kids corner area to provide the required wall thickness for electrical junction boxes and wood blocking for new entry doors.	Add	$874.50
PCO 12	Overlay existing, worn-out, and failing wallpaper in the upper ceiling volume of the waiting room with drywall to avoid painting the damaged wall covering and provide a uniform, finished aesthetic.	Add	$3,697.25
PCO 13	Change tile size of tile type T2 from 24X24 to 12X24 due to procurement delays with the larger format tile.	Deduct	$261.82
PCO 14	Provide and install paper towel combination units and sanitary napkin disposal units at new restrooms. These units were called out on the original plans as owner provided but are not being furnished by the District.	Add	$2,819.60
PCO 15	Provide and install a new actuator for the existing air damper, temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors, and safety circuit relays on the existing outside air duct. Upgrades to the existing outside air duct was not part of the original HVAC scope, but required to integrate the new system components correctly.	Add	$3,641.10

 

Total Amount of Change Order No. 003 Add	$ 15,280.71
Original Contract Amount:	$ 1,436,600.00
Previously Approved Changes:	$ 47,950.56
Change Order No. 002 - Add	$ 15,280.71
Total Revised Contract Amount:	$1,499,831.27
Amount Paid to Date	$628,093.69
Amount Remaining	$871,737.58

 

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:  176  Misc. Federal Grant
PROGRAM:  2251 Staff Development
DEPT:  7043300  Staff Development
PROJECT GRANT:  466427
SUPPLIER:  Nanette Beller
POLICY:  7000, III.K., 7000  V.D.
AMOUNT:  $55,000.00

Administration recommends approval of the attached Consulting Services Agreement with Nanette Beller to support and mentor identified principals. Ms. Beller will also support assistant principal development as a part of our ongoing succession planning. This is the seventh year that Ms. Beller has provided this mentoring support. The attached agreement provides services from August 2026 through July 2027 and will not exceed 50 hours per month at $100 per hour. The total cost of the agreement is $55,000.00.

Rationale:  FUND: 4070 Depreciation Reserve Fund
PROGRAM:  2510 Business Support Services
DEPT. ID: 7062100 Accounting and Finance Office
SUPPLIER: OES System Solutions
POLICIES: 7000, III.K, 7000, VII.A, 7000, VII.D 
AMOUNT:  $574,462.00

Administration recommends approval of a contract with OES System Solutions in the amount of $574,462.00 for the OPS Stadiums Security Camera Improvements Project, pursuant to Bid No. 26-002, which was awarded by the Board on May 18, 2026.

The project includes the provision of all labor, electrical wiring, communications cabling, security cameras, mounting hardware, software licenses, and removal of existing equipment necessary to replace and install security camera systems at the stadiums of Benson, Blackburn, Bryan, Burke, Central, North, Northwest, South, Buena Vista, and Westview High Schools, as well as Norris Middle School.

The existing cameras operate on a software platform that is no longer supported or eligible for updates. The new systems will utilize the District’s current security camera platform, providing standardized operation, enhanced functionality, improved cybersecurity, and greater system reliability. The project also includes adding new camera locations to expand coverage and strengthen security monitoring across the stadium facilities.  The total cost of this project is $574,462.00 and is expected to be completed by September 30, 2026.

Rationale:  FUND: 1 General Fund
PROGRAM:  2520 Transportation
DEPT. ID: 7162800 Student Transportation
SUPPLIER: Old Castle Materials Midwest Co Doing Business As Omni Engineering  
POLICIES: 7000, VII., 7000, III. D
AMOUNT:   $398,713.55   

Administration recommends approval of the contract with Old Castle Materials Midwest Co. (Doing Business As Omni Engineering) for the OPS Service Center Parking Lot Improvement Project from Bid No. 26-050, which was awarded to Old Castle Materials Midwest Co. (Doing Business As Omni Engineering), at the July 13, 2026, Board Meeting. The project includes the removal and replacement of existing curbs, gutters, pavement, site lighting, chain-link fencing, portions of the retaining wall, and associated earthwork. Improvements are necessary due to multiple failures of the existing segmental retaining wall between the upper and lower bus parking lots, which have created unsafe conditions for staff and District vehicles, rendering both lots too hazardous to continue parking OPS buses. The project will replace the failing retaining wall with a stabilized sloped grade between the parking lots. The contract includes approved Alternate No. 1 for the construction of a new storm drainage system in the upper parking lot to improve site drainage, at an additional cost of $17,242.00, to prevent future water damage to the retaining wall. The total price of the contract is $398,713.55.

Rationale:  Funds: 1, 153   General Fund, Special Education - IDEA
Department: 7194010   Special Education Administration
Programs: 1214, 1231, 1265, 1266, 1274 - Speech Therapy School Age, Nursing Services, Nonpublic Teachers, Nonpublic Therapists, Psychological Svcs-School Age        

Project: 460026, 460027 - IDEA Base/EP Grant
Policy: 7000 
Amount:  $3,551,274.00

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 2026-2027 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 2026-2027 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 2026-2027 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 $3,551,274.00 and is an allowable reimbursable special education expenditure. 
 

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of a renewed contract with Metropolitan Community College to continue with a collaborative position. The role provides support to Omaha Public Schools students and staff to enhance, expand, and develop opportunities for students to earn college credits by taking part in Metropolitan Community College dual enrollment courses and support to staff through instructional leadership related to dual enrollment. The agreement specifies this role will be shared financially between Omaha Public Schools and Metropolitan Community College where Metropolitan Community College will reimburse Omaha Public Schools fifty percent of the total cost of compensation (pay and benefits), up to $79,909.22, over a 12-month term between August 1, 2026 and July 31, 2027 (2026-27 academic year).

Renewing this contractual agreement will allow Omaha Public Schools to continue work around Career Education programming in our high schools and will facilitate collaborative connections to expand work as it relates to our secondary programs, career pathways, and career academy programs. This collaborative agreement will also allow Omaha Public Schools to better align to the requirements of the federal Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century (Perkins V) Act where dual enrollment access and participation will be an indicator of program success. The remaining fifty percent of this FTE is a staffing budget item of Curriculum and Instruction Support, Office of Career Education.

Rationale:  FUND: 1, General Fund
PROGRAM: 2241, Library Services
DEPT: 7193010, Secondary Education Admin.
SUPPLIER: Britannica Education
POLICIES: 7000, V. A.
AMOUNT: $37,317.00
 
Administration recommends renewing the licensing subscription for the Britannica School and Britannica Spanish Online Database for 2026-2027. 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 5 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 academic prerogative. The total price is $37,317.00.

Rationale:  FUND:  1, General Fund
PROGRAM:  2241, Library Services
DEPT: 7193010, Secondary Education Admin.
SUPPLIER: CENGAGE Learning
POLICIES: 7000, V. A.
AMOUNT: $80,014.22
 
Administration recommends renewing the licensing subscription for the Gale In Context Online Database for the 2026-2027 school year. This multidisciplinary database is used by students to research current events, history, literature, government, science, social issues, and international viewpoints. The database contains news, biographies, videos, images, magazine articles, and primary source documents. The Gale In Context subscription price includes access to Gale In Context Opposing Viewpoints, Gale In Context Global Issues, Gale In Context High School, and Gale In Context Middle School. 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 academic prerogative. The total price is $88,215.70.

Rationale:  FUND:  1, General
PROGRAM:  1100 Regular Instruction 
DEPT: 7193010 Secondary Education Administration 
SUPPLIER: StrongMind  
POLICIES:  7000, III.K., 7000, V.A, 7000, VII.A., 6121 
AMOUNT: $91,625.00

Administration recommends approval of an extension of agreement with StrongMind per RFP No. P009-23, for an additional one (1) year term from July 31, 2026 through July 31, 2027. The original three-year Strongmind agreement was approved by the Board of Education on May 15, 2023. The agreement allows for four (4) one-year extensions.  This will be the first one-year extension of this agreement.  These resources will be used at the Omaha Virtual School (OVS) Program as their High-Quality Instructional Materials. The agreement is for the 2026-27 school year.  The total cost of the agreement is $91,625.00.

Rationale: 
Administration recommends approval of the attached First Amendment to the Funding Agreement between the District and the Omaha Public Schools Foundation for Phase 4 of the North High Stadium Project.  The original Funding agreement with OPSF was approved by the Board on April 7, 2025.  The amendment increases the funding to cover Phase 4 of the project to include personal property, fixtures, furniture, and work to be performed in existing locker rooms and the existing field located to the South of North High. Existing stadium upgrades include: a new concession stand, restrooms, and a maintenance storage building; doubling of the existing bleacher capacity; addition of a ticket booth; fencing modifications; and ADA access from top to bottom of bleachers and access to field level from ticket booth.  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, Emspace + Lovgren and the Omaha Public Schools Foundation (OPSF) 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 the District has acquired from the YMCA. The amendment will provide additional funding in the approximate amount of $3,229,950.00  In keeping with the provisions of the funding agreement and this amendment between the District and OPSF, the construction of the project will be entirely funded by the funding partners. 

Rationale:  The Administration recommends indemnification of Ricardo Martinez, pursuant to the provisions of Neb. Rev. Stat. § 79-516, against expenses he has incurred or would otherwise incur in connection with the pending suit, Tony Kirk v. Johnny Ingram, Wadd I, LLC, Douglas County School District, City of Omaha, and Ricardo Martinez, Case No. CI 24-7815 filed in the District Court of Douglas County, Nebraska.  The allegations against Mr. Martinez arose while he was operating a District owned school bus.  Mr. Martinez was operating within the scope of his employment at the time of the accident.  The Administration further recommends that the indemnification of Mr. Martinez is proper under the circumstances because he acted in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the school district, pursuant to Neb. Rev. Stat. § 79-516.  The District will enter into a joint representation agreement with Mr. Martinez for defense of the pending litigation. The Board further authorizes the engagement of Baird Holm, LLP to provide the legal services related to the pending suit against Mr. Martinez. 

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Service Employees International Union Local 226 (Operations Division).  The District and the Operations Division, as part of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) being approved today for the 2026-2027 school year, have agreed to implement employee uniforms beginning the last day of the contract year.  Since the 2026-2027 Agreement expires before the 2027-2028 school year begins, the parties agreed to enter into a separate MOA regarding the uniform agreement which extends beyond the CBA and is intended to further affirm that commitment.

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached Post Construction Stormwater Management Plan Maintenance Agreement and Easement between the District and the YMCA for the North High Stadium Project.  The proposed agreement and easement will permit the District and the YMCA to construct and maintain joint stormwater management facilities for their respective properties as well as provide access to those facilities for the City of Omaha.  The District will pay 51% of post-construction related costs and the YMCA will pay 49% of post-construction related costs.  The Post Construction Stormwater Management Plan Maintenance Agreement and Easement is required by the City of Omaha and is one of the final steps necessary for completion of the North High Stadium Project.  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, Emspace + Lovgren and the Omaha Public Schools Foundation (OPSF) 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 the District has acquired from the YMCA. The Funding agreement with OPSF was approved by the Board on April 7, 2025.  The site plan and design concept were approved by the Board on July 17, 2025.  In keeping provisions of the funding agreement between the District and OPSF, the construction of the project will be entirely funded by the funding partners. 
 

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached collective bargaining agreement with the Bilingual Liaisons unit, represented by Omaha Education Association, for the 2026-27 School Year which has been ratified by the unit. The District will continue to provide a $1200 deductible health plan and will increase its health insurance premium contribution by 5%. While employees will cover the remainder of the premium increase, the District has agreed to ensure that no employee shall suffer a reduction in gross pay resulting from the increased health insurance premium contribution. The total package cost of the one-year agreement is 2.96%.

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached collective bargaining agreement with the Educational Interpreters/Transliterators unit, represented by Omaha Education Association, for the 2026-27 School Year which has been ratified by the unit. The District will continue to provide a $1200 deductible health plan and will increase its health insurance premium contribution by 5%. While employees will cover the remainder of the premium increase, the District has agreed to ensure that no employee shall suffer a reduction in gross pay resulting from the increased health insurance premium contribution. The total package cost of the one-year agreement is 2.47%.

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached collective bargaining agreement with Service Employees International Union Local 226 (Office Personnel Division) for the 2026-27 School Year which has been ratified by Local 226. The District will continue to provide a $1200 deductible health plan and will increase its health insurance premium contribution by 5%. While employees will cover the remainder of the premium increase, the District has agreed to ensure that no employee shall suffer a reduction in gross pay resulting from the increased health insurance premium contribution. The total package cost of the one-year agreement is 2.67%.

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached collective bargaining agreement with Service Employees International Union Local 226 (Operations Division) for the 2026-27 School Year which has been ratified by Local 226. The District will continue to provide a $1200 deductible health plan and will increase its health insurance premium contribution by 5%. While employees will cover the remainder of the premium increase, the District has agreed to ensure that no employee shall suffer a reduction in gross pay resulting from the increased health insurance premium contribution. The total package cost of the one-year agreement is 2.71%.

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: 31   Special Building Fund  
PROGRAM:  2510 Business Support
PROJECT:  320118 TAC 1ST Floor Renovations SCS
DEPT ID:  7166600 School House Planning
SUPPLIER: Sheppard Business Interiors Inc.
POLICIES: 7000, III.J, 7000, VII.B
AMOUNT:   $239,092.47

Administration recommends the purchase of office desks, task chairs, filing cabinets, side tables, planning tables, stack chairs, reception seating, a powered conference table with chairs, credenzas, bookcases, and powered workstation panels from Sheppard’s Business Interiors through OMNIA Partners Cooperative Contract #240117. The purchase includes freight, delivery, assembly, and onsite installation for the newly remodeled first-floor office space at the Teacher Administrative Center (TAC).

These furnishings will support 43 District employees in Student Placement, Student Records, and Community Relations & Partnerships, that regularly serve and interact with students, families, and community stakeholders.

Pursuant to Board Policy 7000, V.B. (Cooperative Purchases), the District will utilize pricing available through OMNIA Contract #240117, which qualifies as an exception to the standard bidding process. The total cost of purchase, including freight, is $239,092.47.

Delivery and installation are anticipated in early fall 2026 to support the department's relocation and occupancy of the renovated space for the 2026-27 school year.

SUPPLIER ITEM	ITEM DESCRIPTION	QTY	UNIT PRICE	EXT PRICE
1-110	HON 66Wx30D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage & Ignition 2 Task Chair	1	$2,595.77	$2,595.77
8-104	HON Preside Tables with Base (6) Etch 4-Leg Arm & Armless Stack Chairs (12)	1	$7,776.18	$7,776.18
12-105	HON Kids 42' Round Adj Height Table & 12" Chairs (4)	1	$616.76	$616.76
15-106	HON Ignition 2 Task Mid-back	2	$373.70	$747.40
16-111	HON 48Wx24D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage, Ignition 2 Task Chair, Ignition Guest Chair & 10500 Series 3-Shelf Bookcase	1	$3,472.29	$3,472.29
26-112	HON 48Wx24D/72Wx30D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task chair, Ignition Guest Chairs (2) & 10500 Series 3-Shelf Bookcase (2)	1	$3,811.65	$3,811.65
36-113	HON 48Wx24D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Box/file Storage, Ignition 2 Task Chair, Ignition Guest chair & 10500 Series 3-Shelf Bookcase	1	$3,472.29	$3,472.29
46-116	HON Preside 42x144 Rectangle Top 2-piece Conference Table with power, 12 Chairs, Hospitality Credenza w/Shelf	1	$8,496.13	$8,496.13
53-118	HON  10500 Series Floor standing 72W x 24D x 29-1/2H Stations, Electrical Pass-Thru Cable 36W 3-1 & 2-2 Systems/ Ignition 2 Task Chairs (2) & Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs	1	$8,776.05	$8,776.05
84-119	HON  72Wx30D Rectangle Worksurface Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task, Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs (4), Preside 36" Square Shaped Table & 10500 Series Bookcase 3-shelf Bookcase	1	$4,550.98	$4,550.98
96-120	HON 66Wx30D/ 48Wx24D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series 36Wx24Dx29-1/2H Lateral File Two-Drawer Storage,10500 Series storage (2)/ Ignition 2 Task, Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs (4), Preside 36" Square Shaped Table & 10500 Series Bookcases	1	$4,969.97	$4,969.97
107-121	HON  48Wx24D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Box File Storage, Ignition 2 Task Chair, Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chair, Table & 10500 Series Bookcase	1	$4,375.64	$4,375.64
119-122	HON Workstations W/Electrical Pass-Thru Cable 30W 3-1 & 2-2 64W x 28D Rectangle Worksurface (3)/ Storage - C/T Base Systems & Ignition 2 Task Chairs (3)	1	$9,904.68	$9,904.68
162-123	HON Workstations (19)W/ Electrical Pass-Thru Cable 30W 3-1 & 2-2 Systems, Harness, Duplex Receptacle Circuit/64W x 28D Rectangle Worksurface, Storage/ Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chair (6) & Ignition 2 Task Chairs (19)	1	$89,898.84	$89,898.84
250/251-123	HON MAV Single Lounge Mid Back Arms Office Chairs (4) & 15" x 17" Personal Table Tables (4)	1	$5,365.12	$5,365.12
252-114/124	HON Preside 42"Round Shaped Tables (2) & Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs (10)	1	$3,232.02	$3,232.02
255-125	HON 48Wx24D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage, Ignition 2 Task & Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chair (2)	1	$3,132.93	$3,132.93
264-126	HON 48Wx24D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task chair, Preside 36" Square Table & Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chair (2)	1	$3,696.92	$3,696.92
275-127	HON  48Wx24D/72Wx30D Rectangle Desk,10500 Series 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task, Preside 36" Square Shaped Table & Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs (4)	1	$4,211.62	$4,211.62
286-128	HON Astir Two Seat Lounge Booths (4, Preside 30 Square Tables with Bases (6) & Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chair (6)	1	$11,366.12	$11,366.12
291-129	HON - Preside 36" Square Table and Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chair	1	$821.34	$821.34
294-160	HON - Preside 42"Round Table with Base/ Child Table & 4 Child 12"Chair and Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs (7)	1	$3,004.82	$3,004.82
300-161	HON  2Wx30D Rectangle Desk, Trackable Panel w/o TC 42.5H x 36W & all Starter Kit for Panels 42.5H Panels with Post, Covers and Post Caps, Ignition 2 Task	1	$2,883.95	$2,883.95
315-163	HON  48Wx24D/72Wx30D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task chair, Ignition Guest Chairs (2) & 10500 Series 3-Shelf Bookcase (2)	1	$3,811.65	$3,811.65
325-164	HON  48Wx24D/72Wx30D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task chair, Ignition Guest Chairs (2) & 10500 Series 3-Shelf Bookcase (2)	1	$3,811.65	$3,811.65
335-165	HON 72Wx30D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2),Ignition 2 Task, Ignition Guest/Multi-Purpose Chairs (4), Preside 36" Square Table & 0500 Series Bookcases (2)	1	$4,890.34	$4,890.34
347-166	HON  48Wx24D/72Wx30D Rectangle Desk, 10500 Series Storage (2), Ignition 2 Task chair, Ignition Guest Chairs (2) & 10500 Series 3-Shelf Bookcase (2)	1	$3,811.65	$3,811.65

 

Rationale:  FUND: 5190 ESU19 Information and Management Services
PROGRAM: 2510 Business Support
DEPARTMENT: 7062515 Project Management
SUPPLIER: Softchoice
POLICIES: 7000, III. K.,
AMOUNT: $1,027,457.65

Administration recommends the approval of the one-year renewal of the Microsoft Enrollment for Education Solutions (EES) Agreement and the associated purchase of Microsoft licensing through Softchoice for the period of September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027, at a total cost of $1,027,457.65.

The Microsoft EES Agreement provides Omaha Public Schools with continued access to critical Microsoft software and cloud-based services that support teaching, learning, communication, collaboration, and business operations throughout the District. The agreement includes licensing for approximately 8,100 faculty and staff members and student-use benefits for approximately 60,000 students.

Through this renewal, staff and students will maintain access to Microsoft 365 applications and services, including Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Teams, and SharePoint. These tools are integral to classroom instruction, family communication, document creation, data analysis, virtual collaboration, file management, and day-to-day district operations.

The agreement also includes Microsoft 365 A5 licensing and supporting technologies such as Azure cloud services, Windows Server, SQL Server, Microsoft Project, Visio, Visual Studio, and Azure DevOps, which support the District’s technology infrastructure, cybersecurity program, and enterprise systems.

The Microsoft EES program is specifically designed for educational institutions and provides favorable academic pricing, centralized license management, and access to current Microsoft technologies. Renewing this agreement ensures compliance with software licensing requirements, uninterrupted access to essential technology resources, and continued support for instructional and operational needs across the District. Omaha Public Schools has utilized Microsoft products and services since the 2015-2016 school year.

Because this renewal represents the continuation of the District’s long-standing use of Microsoft 365 products and services, the purchase qualifies as an exception to bidding under Board Policy 7000, Section V.L. (Software Purchases). Approval of this renewal will ensure continued access to the technology platforms and services necessary to support district wide operations and student learning. The total cost of the one-year renewal is $1,027,457.65.

Rationale:  Fund: 1 General Fund
Dept. ID: 7062700 Research Office
Account: 54110 Tests
Policies: 7000, III. K., 7000, VII.A., 7000, V. A.
Vendor: ACT
Amount: $71,820.00

Administration recommends approval of a revised Contract and Data Protection Agreement with ACT for the term of August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2027, to provide the paper version of PreACT 8/9 for Grade 9 students. This serves as these students' first District sponsored live practice of the ACT assessment. The Nebraska Department of Education provides a similar opportunity for Grade 10 students and the data from these two practice assessments supports targeted instruction and the development of test-taking strategies for students. These efforts and this assessment support student performance on the Grade 11 NSCAS-ACT assessment. At its meeting on June 15, 2026, the Board approved the contract and DPA, but the incorrect attachment, for the 2025-26 school year, was inadvertently included on that agenda. 

Rationale:  Administration recommends approval of the attached partnership agreement between Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and Omaha Public Schools. As an extension of the Concurrent Enrollment Program at Metropolitan Community College, students receive full college credit for MCC classes taught in an Omaha Public Schools setting where they meet MCC standards, policies, and objectives during the 2026-27 school year.

Rationale:  Fund: 1 General Fund
Program:  2251 Staff Development
Dept:  7043100 Human Resources
Policy: 7000, VII.D.
Amount: $1,140,000.00

Administration recommends approval of the attached Third Amendment to an Agreement between Douglas County School District 0001 and the Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska for the Teacher Scholar Academy. The original agreement was approved by the Board of Education on September 8, 2022.  A First Amendment to the Agreement was approved by the Board of Education on March 4, 2024, and a Second Amendment was approved on December 12, 2024.  The Third Amendment outlines support for one additional cohort of university students beginning in the 2027-28 school year and is effective through the 2030-31 school year.   Students in the program will receive a $5,000.00 scholarship per semester.  The total cost will be $285,000.00 per year per cohort, for a total of $1,140,000.00.
 

Rationale:  In keeping with the requirements of TITLE 92, NEBRASKA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, CHAPTER 10.011.01B, Administration recommends that the Board approve the attached updated Emergency Operation Plan.  This plan is for preventative purposes for the safety of District students and staff.  Nebraska Revised Statute 84-712.05(9) permits the District to withhold from the public, records "pertaining to protection of the security of public property and persons on or within public property...." While the Emergency Operation Plan is a safety measure for planning, communication, and response efforts within the Omaha Public Schools and for assistance from local first responders, not all portions of the plan are specific enough to warrant being withheld from the public.  With that in mind, only some portions of the plan have been redacted from the attached document.  The complete plan has been shared with the Board and, upon approval, will be submitted to the Nebraska Department of Education’s State School Security Director as required by Nebraska Revised Statute 79-2,144.

Rationale:  It is recommended that the grant fund budget be amended to include the receipts and expenditures of the attached grant awards.

Rationale:  FUND:            1 - General Fund
                       279 - Central Activity
PROGRAM:   2150 - Student Safety
                       2199 - Other Student Support Services
DEPT: Schools
SUPPLIER: Winter Sports & Music Season Officials
POLICY:7000, III.K., 7000, VII. A.
AMOUNT: $287,090.00

The Board of Education is required by State Statute 79-584 to approve all expenditures of District funds. Pre-approval is requested for the estimated 2026-2027 school year fall sports season and music season officials’ pay. Payments to officials will be processed on a weekly basis during the season as pay requests are submitted to Accounts Payable. The total amount of approval requested is $287,090.00 and total payments will not exceed the final approved amount without additional Board of Education approval.

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

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.