Full 4 OPS

This is not an official statement of the Board. It reflects my individual views as a member of the Omaha Public Schools Board of Education.

I support the OPS students who exercised their constitutional rights this week by walking out alongside their classmates. These students - some directly impacted by immigration enforcement and others standing in solidarity - organized peacefully and intentionally in support of their peers and the broader community during a deeply uncertain moment in our country.

Students who participated in the walkouts were marked truant. There were known consequences for their actions, and they chose to proceed anyway. That choice reflects a level of civic awareness and moral conviction we should not ignore.

I also want to acknowledge OPS administrators and school staff who worked to support student safety during the walkouts.

If I have fallen short in emphasizing the seriousness of what our young people are witnessing and responding to right now, then I want to be clear that this moment matters.

Now more than ever, it is critical that families talk with their children about what is happening around them. Talk about the protests taking place across the country, what they represent, and why so many people - including students - are choosing to raise their voices. Our young people are not disengaged. They are paying attention.

As a Board member, I will listen to our students, take their concerns seriously, and support them within my role. I will also support revisiting and strengthening OPS policies related to immigration and student protections to ensure our schools remain safe, welcoming spaces for every child, regardless of background or immigration status.

Our students deserve to be heard. It is our responsibility as adults and leaders to listen.

You asked what's next and how you can support me after being sanctioned by the OPS Board President, Jane Erdenberger, by removing me from my committee appointments. Please go to the Advocacy link on my website to be added to the email list where you will be sent more information about what you can do.

I truly appreciate all the encouragement and won't let this setback keep me from advocating for the students with food insecurity issues and beyond!

Please share this post to help me reach the most people I can!

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