As I retire this month I ask for a parliamentary point of personal privilege please and thank you…
· So Wednesday, June 6 was a beautiful day in the neighborhood at Prescott Park at Prescott CLC community school. Colleagues gathered…school board members, associate supts, LPS and city directors, principals, CBO partners, funders, site supervisors, a state senator, a state school board member, a mayor’s aide, a city council member, a planning commissioner, the “Sherriff” of Lincoln, family and friends. A chorus of dogs barked, plaques were presented and checks were accepted as the Wednesday morning siren went off on cue. I always say Barb Bartle of the Lincoln Community Foundation knows how to throw a party. She says I have Jeff Cole of the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation to thank or to blame. Speakers included Barb, Kathy Danek, who has known me for 42 years, Barb Bettin of the Lincoln YMCA, SNL Not Ready for Prime Time Players Ryan Mohling and Dayna Krannawitter, Lea Ann Johnson, my partner in crime and co-coordinator for the last 11 years and even my husband, which surprised those who know him. When it was my turn I said, “Cleaning out my desk last week I found an old reporter’s notebook and on the very first page dated 6/28/2001 were notes from a meeting with Phil Schoo. His expectations for Lea Ann and me were to provide communication, leadership, coordination and relationships. If Phil was here today (I have since confirmed this with him) I think he would say we came through for the community on those counts.”
· So it was a glorious celebration of the collective efficacy we call Lincoln Community Learning Centers…a special and unique community initiative and effort. I will be forever grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved with all of you in this important social justice work that makes sure the playing field is level for all students and their families and their neighborhoods.
· So thanks so very much for the memories… .