The superintendent is reshaping what success looks like in Omaha classrooms.
A new implementation has been given to OPS students by Matthew Ray, the superintendent of OPS. By 2030, he aims for all students to be on track with their grades, learning, and reading levels. The goal is clear, to ensure that every student graduates prepared for college, careers, or whatever path they choose.
While many teachers feel more pressure due to the high expectations, some may feel inspired for the future of education in the district with these new rules and policies being put into place.
“I feel inspired. Administration always offers help all of us are here, for you guys to learn and do the best you guys can. I appreciate the extra push to success. I think it’s a great idea to implement into the classroom,” Mr. Valle said.
OPS has already started new efforts to help reach this goal. The district is providing more reading and math intervention programs, expanding tutoring opportunities, and encouraging teachers to give students more one-on-one attention when needed.
Students are also starting to see how these challenges affect their daily learning. Some admit that the higher expectations make school more challenging, but others believe it will help them in the long run. Teachers and administrators hope that with the right support, students will be able to meet the new goals.
“At first I thought it would just mean more work, but now I see how it’s supposed to help us,’’ sophomore Mia Cale said. “If we can get better at reading and writing now it’ll make things easier for us after high school.”
District leaders emphasize that the 2030 goal is not just about test scores, but about preparing students for life. They believe that focusing on literacy and core skills will open doors for more students to succeed in college or enter a career right after graduation. It will take teamwork between teachers, students, and families to reach the goal, but many feel it’s worth the effort.
This goal can come with lots of challenges, and it may be hard to be there individually for every student.
“But if we all stay focused and continue to push each other to improve, we can give our students the best chance to reach their full potential,’’ Mr. Valle said.
