It’s I Love Public Schools Day here in Nebraska! Today and every day, at OpenSky we are proud supporters of the smart investments our communities make in their public schools, which provide for our future workforce, economic opportunity and democratic way of life. While we have work to do as a state to close the opportunity gap, the Cornhusker State has a track record in leading the nation in the ways our schools deliver for our kids. We could probably list thousands of reasons why we love our public schools, but for now, we’ll highlight just a few:
#1: They Produce Results
WalletHub ranks Nebraska public schools 7th in the entire nation, and 4th overall in Mathematics test scores. They also name Omaha, our largest city, as one of the most educated in the nation. Additionally, the Network for Public Education gives Nebraska an A grade for public school support.
#2: They Connect Students with Our World
In 2024, the Nebraska Department of Education awarded 385 students with the Seal of Biliteracy, indicating mastery of a language other than English. Several students are polyglots, meaning they demonstrated mastery of several languages. The Seals were awarded for Spanish, French, Chinese, and more.
#3: They Develop our Workforce
In recent years, Nebraska public schools have made important strides in exposing students to in-demand careers in the skilled trades. Gering High School even enlisted their high school construction class to assist in building a new preschool, meeting a need for early childhood education investments and giving students a real-world experience that enhanced their community.
#4: They Boost Our Economy
The economic impact of strong public education is immeasurable, as is the quality of life and the attractiveness of Nebraska as a place to call home for young families. According to a study by Dr. Dana Mitra of Penn State, improved education and more stable employment greatly increase tax revenue, with a return of at least 7 dollars for every dollar invested in pre-kindergarten education. Decreasing the number of high school dropouts by half would nationally produce $45 billion per year in net economic benefit.
#5: Heroes Work There
Nebraska teachers and school staff meet students where they are, believing in their potential and finding their unique strengths. Our educators are some of the most experienced, on average, in the nation, and some of the most educated, too.
The OpenSky team is ready to work tirelessly this legislative session and beyond to provide in-depth analysis, research and data that empowers legislators and the community to maintain and even expand the outstanding results our schools have shown year after year. Would you consider supporting this critical work? Click the button below to make a contribution.
