We are proud to showcase artwork created by talented students from across Gretna Public School District. These pieces are now on display at the District Office for our community to enjoy. We rotate artwork often, so stop by and see the creativity of our students in person. Amazing work!
#BeGretnaGreat
1 day ago, Gretna Public School District
a framed watercolor of a rabbit with ears upright wearing a black jacket, white shirt with black dots and a big blue bow tie
a chalk drawing of a bear with the title Grin and Bear It in a frame
a framed watercolor of a frog in a oversized green sweater wearing orange socks and brown converse shoes
A framed watercolor painting of half a lions face in light browns, blues and pinks with dark brown eye
framed artwork of a colorful dragon eye in red, oranges and blues
a framed watercolor of a blue turtle with splotches of colors in browns and tans making it look like wet sand
A framed artwork of an eye with red streaks
a framed chalk artwork of cowgirl brown boots with flowers design and fresh flowers in the boots standing upright on a dirt ground
The School Board approved the 2027-2028 school year calendar at last night’s meeting. To help families plan ahead, we are sharing the 2025-2026, 2026-2027, and 2027-2028 calendars early so vacations and appointments can be scheduled with minimal impact on learning.

As we plan for future school years, we also want to remind families why attendance matters. Missing 10 percent of the school year, about 18 days, can significantly affect student success at all grade levels. In the early grades, strong attendance supports reading development. In middle and high school, regular attendance is closely connected to academic progress and graduation.

Improving attendance is a shared responsibility, and small habits make a big difference. Planning vacations and appointments outside of school days, maintaining consistent routines, and staying connected with your child’s school all help students succeed.

Every day in class builds learning, confidence, and connection.

Every Day Counts. Attendance Matters.

2025-2026 Calendar - https://tinyurl.com/mrmc9d6n
2026-2027 Calendar - https://tinyurl.com/ck3td335
2027-2028 Calendar - https://tinyurl.com/3s8y3s24
4 days ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public Schools logo with a "G" and text reading School Board Approved 27-28 calendar with an image of a calendar

NO SCHOOL TOMORROW

Due to forecasted cold temperatures and safety concerns during morning arrival time, Gretna Public Schools will be CLOSED tomorrow, January 23, 2026. Any activities and events will be communicated directly by buildings, coaches and sponsors.

Please stay warm and safe.

9 days ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public Schools logo with a "G" and text reading Important Message

Gretna Public Schools educators participated in a districtwide Professional Development Day featuring breakout sessions on instruction, technology, wellness, and leadership, concluding with a keynote by Stephen Mackey on school culture and educator impact. Read more at https://www.gpsne.org/article/2642761 #BeGretnaGreat

12 days ago, Gretna Public School District
Superintendent Travis Lightle and Former Board Member David Gulizia speaking to GPS staff about negotiations
Four GPS Administration staff sitting in classroom waiting for teachers to attend their breakout session during GPS PD Day
teachers in front of classroom acting out different words and phrases
GPS staff on PD day spinning clay
GPS staff sitting in classroom learning for PD day
GPS staff on PD day learning coaching techniques
Speaker Stephen Mackey talking to GPS staff about what makes you different?
GPS staff sitting in a classroom learning on PD day
Mike Sortino speaking to GPS staff at PD day

Attention: We Are Hiring School Bus Drivers!

Our school district is looking for caring, dependable individuals to help transport our students safely to and from school each day.

If you enjoy working with children and want a meaningful role in your community, we’d love to have you on our team! Apply at www.gpsne.org

about 2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Gretna Public Schools logo with photo of school bus "We Are Hiring - Drivers Part-Time 20+ Hrs per week CDL & Non CDL 19.60-29.40 Per Hour High Quality Vehicles Vehicle Technology Paid Training PTO & Sick Leave Apply at GPSNE.ORG
Spreading Kindness, One Coffee Sleeve at a Time

The Cedar Hollow Kindness Club’s 4th and 5th graders recently partnered with The Beanery on 168th Street to spread joy throughout the community. Students decorated coffee sleeves with uplifting quotes, cheerful artwork, and positive messages—each one unique and meaningful.

The students loved knowing that their words and designs might brighten someone’s day or inspire a simple act of kindness in return. This hands-on service project provided a creative way for our students to make a positive impact and share kindness with the wider community. We’re proud of their compassion, creativity, and commitment to making the world a little brighter!
about 2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
a student holding their decorated kindness coffee sleeve that says "keep shining, the world needs your light!"
a classroom table full of decorated coffee sleeves.
A student holding her decorated coffee sleeve that says "A little kindness goes a latte!
Two students at a desk writing and decorating coffee sleeves for kindness
a student in the classroom sitting at table with their decorating coffee sleeve "kindness is brewing inside you!"
a student smiling at the camera and holding up decorated coffee sleeve which says "take a sip and smile"
two student at a table decorating coffee sleeves for kindness
a coffee sleeve that says "Shine So Bright Today" on a cup with The Beanery in the background
Dr. Kendra Schneider Named New Director of Special Education
Gretna, NE – December 9, 2025

Gretna Public Schools is thrilled to announce Dr. Kendra Schneider as the new Director of Special Education, effective July 1, 2026, following Paul Duin’s retirement. Dr. Schneider has served as Assistant Director since 2021, leading program supervision, compliance, and professional learning initiatives.

“I’m extremely excited to serve as the Director of Special Education for Gretna Public Schools,” Dr. Schneider said. “Paul Duin has been an incredible mentor, and I’m honored to build upon the strong foundation and high-quality programs established by him and Deb Siemers, the previous Director of Special Education. I look forward to working alongside our talented special education team, collaborating with families, and ensuring every student receives the support they need. Gretna Public Schools’ commitment to excellence in special education is evident, and I’m eager to contribute to our continued growth and success.”

Superintendent Travis Lightle added, “We are excited to announce Dr. Schneider as our new Director of Special Education. Her leadership over the last five years has led to positive changes in our district, and our department’s retention rate remains the envy of the state because of it. Dr. Schneider’s experience and genuine dedication to Gretna Public Schools make her the ideal person to continue advancing our programs.”

Dr. Schneider brings more than 20 years of experience in special education and also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. She holds a Doctorate and two Master’s degrees from the University of Nebraska and is actively involved in statewide initiatives advancing special education.
about 2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
photo of Kendra Schneider and text reading New Director of Special Education
Cedar Hollow 3rd and 5th grade students had their second annual Cedar Hollow Thanksgiving Day Parade this afternoon. 3rd grade and 5th grade students worked together to create awesome balloons for their parade.
2 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
Two 5th grade students lead the parade with their Thanksgiving Day Parade sign.
Students carry their turkey balloon together in the parade.
The Spider Man Balloon is carried by a group of 3rd and 5th grade students.
5th graders walk together in the Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Students carry balloons together as they walk in the parade.
Students carry balloons as they walk in the parade together.
A 3rd grader shows off her cow and pig balloons in the parade.
A 5th grader shows her excitement for the parade!
The parade of balloons continues on!
A team of 3rd and 5th grade girls carry their balloons together.
Cedar Hollow students got to spray silly string on their teachers today in celebration of raising money during the Cedar Hollow Hustle. It was an exciting day as each student was able to participate in the celebration! The teachers even had a little fun spraying silly string on Mr. Runyon!!
2 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
The kindergarten teachers pose for a smile after getting sprayed with silly string by their students.
Mrs. Hardy covers her face as second graders spray silly string on her.
Mrs. Holston and Mrs. Rudd smile after getting sprayed!
Mrs. Michka takes in a face full of silly string from her fifth graders.
4th grade students grin as they spray the silly string on their teacher!
Mrs. Tipton sits as her students spray her with silly string.
Mrs. Cook looks frazzled after being sprayed with silly string!
The teachers turn on Mr. Runyon as they spray him with silly string!
Mr. Runyon smiles for the camera after being sprayed with silly string by his teachers!

Gretna Public Schools Board of Education Attends 2025 NASB State Education Conference

The Gretna Public Schools Board of Education spent two days at the 2025 NASB State Education Conference—Nebraska’s largest annual gathering for school board leaders. The event provides valuable training and collaboration on key topics such as legislative updates, emerging educational trends, student well-being, school safety, school finance, and effective district governance.

By participating, board members bring back insights that support informed decision-making and strengthen the long-term success of Gretna Public Schools. We appreciate their dedication to professional growth and continued service to our students, staff, and community.

2 months ago, Gretna Public School District
The Gretna Board of Education and Superintendent posing for a picture at the NASB State Conference
a selfie of the Gretna Board of Education at the NASB 2025 State Education Conference
The Annual Community Report is Here!

Our school district’s Annual Community Report is now available on our website! It showcases our achievements, financial stewardship, and goals for the year ahead. We encourage all staff to take a few moments to review this important update and stay informed about our district’s progress.

View full report on our website https://tinyurl.com/5n8u3jk5
3 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Image of a bell and text reading Community Report - Available online visit our website under About or use the link below to view the full report.

What Students Wish Adults Knew — Tonight at Gretna High!
Join Gretna Public Schools for an evening with Stephen Mackey, co-author of The Locker Room.
Exhibits begin at 6:00 PM and the presentation starts at 7:00 PM.

Come listen, learn, and connect with your community.
Tonight’s the conversation you don’t want to miss.

3 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Stephen mackey speaks photo standing with arms crossed and city behind him
Cedar Hollow students had a fantastic day celebrating Halloween. Students participated in a parade to show off their costumes followed by parties put on by parents!
Thank you parents for your help with a fun afternoon.
Have a fantastic night trick or treating! Stay Safe!
Happy Halloween!
3 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
First grade students wait along the lockers for the parade to begin.
Third grade students high five each other as they pass in the hallway.
Second grade students watch and wave as the parade goes by.
A first grader high fives kindergarteners as he walks in the school parade.
Spiderman shoots his web as he walks by!
Second grade girls pose for a photo of their costumes together.
A kindergarten princess gets ready to bowl the ball to knock over toilet paper rolls and win a prize!
Fifth graders flip bottles as a game during their party.
Tomorrow night is the Battle of 370. Join us for a Community Opportunity to support Gretna's needs. This will be a great event for the whole family! Come early and stay to cheer on the Griffins and Dragons!
3 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
Community Opportunity Flyer (3)
Cedar Hollow 3rd Graders did an excellent job singing during their music program last night.
Thank you Mrs. Smith for all your hard work on a fun program that portrays different songs from a variety of movies.
They did an awesome job and the special guests were an exciting touch!
Way to go Mrs. Smith and the 3rd Graders!
4 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
3rd grade students stand on the raisers during their program.
A 3rd grade student singers her solo during the performance.
Four 3rd grade students play the instruments together.
Three 3rd grade students dressed as Spiderman for their performance.
A 3rd grade student performs a solo during the program.
A 3rd grade boy dresses at Elvis Presley for the program.
A 3rd grade student stands to sing her solo as four 3rd graders play the xylophone in the background.
Cedar Hollow Preschool students raced in their Cedar Hollow Hustle on Thursday. They had a blast running and dancing to music!
4 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
Preschool students gather together before their race begins.
Student listens as she waits to begin the race.
Students get excited as they get ready to start!
Ms. Mallory walks with her students as they begin to run their race!
A preschool student flashes a smile as he runs around the track.
Students hold hands as they laugh and walk together during their Hollow Hustle.
Preschool students run around the cones during their race!
Students run with others during their race.
A students smiles as she continues her race!
A preschool student shows his excitement for the hollow hustle race!
Cedar Hollow students had a blast racing around the track during the Cedar Hollow Hustle!
4 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
A kindergarten student races around the truck during the Hollow Hustle!
A first grade student adds another lap as she runs around the track.
First grade students enjoy a cold popsicle after their race.
A second grade student cools off with cold water after her race!
Second and third grade students walk or run to add more laps to their total.
A fourth grade student shows how much fun the Hollow Hustle is with her big smile!
Fifth grade students cheer each other on as they run in the Hollow Hustle.
Fourth and fifth grade students walk together during the Hollow Hustle.
Mrs. Cook and Mrs. Tipton enjoy a fun race day!
Community Opportunity Tailgate & Food Drive
Date: October 24 | Time: 6 PM
Hy-Vee tailgate available for purchase!
Come hang out, enjoy some food, and support the Gretna Backpack Program. Make an impact in our community!
#GretnaBackpack #CommunityUnity #BeGretnaGreat
4 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Community Food Drive October 24 at 6pm Requested Donation items: 16oz box spaghetti noodles, 24oz jar pasta sauce, 16 oz creamy peanut butter (plastic jar), 30oz jelly, 14oz box instant rice, canned chicken canned chicken noodle soup, bbq sauce, 14.5 canned vegetables, 14.5oz canned fruit 12 oz. boxed cereal, 8ct fruit and grain cereal bars(e.g. Nutri Grain) 6.6 oz bags of Goldfish crackers

Today Superintendent Lightle stepped into a new role as school bus driver. From elementary to high school, students were surprised to see him behind the wheel. Our elementary students showed their approval with big smiles and a thumbs up. It was a wonderful reminder that leadership means being ready to help wherever needed. Thank you to Superintendent Lightle and all of our dedicated staff who make sure students arrive safely every day. #BeGretnaGreat

4 months ago, Gretna Public School District
Superintendent Lightle sitting at the driver seat on the bus all smiles waiting for the students to drive them home for the day
Superintendent Lightle and elementary student smiling on the bus as he gets ready to drive them home
Middle School student waving as he gets on the bus Superintendent Lightle is driving
Students boarding the school bus on their way home with Superintendnet Lightle driving
Bus full of elementary students giving a thumbs up as Superintendent Lightle speaks to them from the driver seat
Students boarding the school bus on their way home with Superintendnet Lightle driving
Cedar Hollow Elementary wrapped up the first three days of school with an all school assembly. Students then engaged in exciting classroom activities as they continued to learn the school rules and expectations. It's been an exhilarating first three days!
6 months ago, Cedar Hollow Elementary
Mr. Runyon welcomes the crowd of students while holding a microphone, ready to kick off the first school assembly.
The student shows his excitement for the first school assembly.
Ms. Glasshoff and two students engage in a fun activity together!
Students participate in a fun game together!
A young student engages in a coloring page!