SHINE 2023

Please review our annual magazine, showcasing programs and accomplishments over the past year at Omaha Street School.

Showcasing Omaha Street School™ SHINE

IN THE

R O C K Finding My Voice

SHINE 2023

Editor

Linda Reimer

Writers

Linda Reimer Susan Schaaf

Graphic Artist

Julie Ostrand

LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR Honey in the Rock…finding my voice What does it mean to “find your voice”? This is a question that often eludes our students. Many are afraid to use their voice to express what they need or how they feel because they have not been heard by parents, former teachers or other adults around them. They feel their voice is insignificant. They don’t have the confidence that their voice will be heard. They feel their voice does not hold value. Honey in the Rock, which is our theme for the year, allows our students to find who they really are. To find their voice. Our students come to us with a hard shell, afraid to let anyone in or let others know who they are. Our job is to help them find their honey in the rock. To explore who they really are, what is their purpose, what is their voice.

Cover Design

Julie Ostrand

Publisher

SHINE is published by Omaha Street School, Inc. 3223 N 45th Street Omaha, NE 68104 Phone: 402-451-5234

Management Team

Linda Reimer Executive Director

Anthony Williams Principal

Susan Schaaf Executive Assistant/ Volunteer Coordinator

We want to give our students courage so their voices can be heard.

We are always looking for new ways for our students to find their voice, and this year we started a vocational program called Victory Through Vocation. We believe that along with a high school diploma, our students will greatly benefit from a certification in a trade. Most of our students are not college bound. By preparing them with skills in a trade, they will be better equipped for adulthood once they graduate. Last March, Victory through Vocation was a vision, and by August, we raised the funds needed to renovate two classrooms, buy computers and other office equipment, and hire a person to direct the program. We now have three tracks for certification, nursing (CNA and PNA) partnering with Quality Career Pathways, car mechanics through Jensen Tire, and digital literacy certification through TestOut. It will be exciting to see what God has in store for these young adults! Thank you for being part of their journey. Linda Reimer Executive Director

We want to recognize Digital Express with great appreciation for their printing services.

S H I N E is created and distributed for the purpose of showcasing Omaha Street School. The mission of the school—We empower at-risk students to discover new hope and success through education, vocation, and love in a Christ-centered environment. We at Omaha Street School hope SHINE will show who we are and what we do, so you can join us and help change the lives of our students.

FINDING OUR VOICE A Student-Centric School Model

STUDENT

m y

Here at Omaha Street School, we are constantly focused on ensuring student needs are at the center of our educational process. Our staff strives to understand what motivates our individual students in the classroom in an attempt to elevate engagement. As a reminder, the graphic above illustrates our commitment to student-centered learning.

–Anthony Williams, Principal

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

LOOK FOR THE HONEY IN THE ROCK

How is OSS’s voice different from other educational institutions?

Our uniqueness and boldness are encompassed in these six difference makers.

TRAUMA

READING

Literacy represents freedom – freedom for you to go where you want to go in the world, and to seek opportunities in order to take your next steps. Literacy also allows opportunities to find you!

There are wounds that never show on the body that are deeper and more hurtful than anything that bleeds. - Laurell K. Hamilton

-Literacy Volunteers, Southern Connecticut

SOFT SKILLS Unfortunately, some people believe that soft skills aren’t that important. However, almost every employer I’ve ever talked to about this disagrees. In a world where job roles are changing rapidly, soft skills will be one of the few constants. - Chris Jones, Chief Executive at City & Guilds via backingsoftskills.co.uk

VOCATIONAL

Vocational programs raise the employment and earnings of at-risk youth and adults. - Bettina Brown

PREPARING FOR ADULTHOOD

ACADEMIC

True teachers are those who use themselves as bridges over which they invite their students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create their own. - Nikos Kazantzakis

The day you graduate from childhood to adulthood is the day you take full responsibility for your life. - Darren Hardy

THEY FOUND

Atayla’s Story

When my son started facing challenges in public school, I was desperate to find him a place where he would do well. I contacted OSS and after a tour, I enrolled him which is one of the best decisions I have made. He has grown so much and will graduate in May. Were it not for OSS, I don’t know where he would be. During COVID I began cleaning at OSS three nights a week and doing anything else I could do to help out. The more I was around the students, the more I loved building relationships with them. I didn’t think I could love other people’s children this much, but found out that I could. I asked Mr. Williams if it would be possible to be his assistant since I knew the load he was carrying. It became a reality and I am so happy to be a part of the Street School family. What is very important to me is that we practice Tabula Rasa here. Every student and staff member is given a clean slate and fresh start each day. None of us are perfect and the fact that we embrace second chances, has changed my life. I have a purpose that I did not think I would find! Miss Stormy Administrative Assistant to the Principal

When I walked through the doors of OSS for the first time, it kind of freaked me out. It was so small and old. I wasn’t sure I would like it here. But once I was here, it wasn’t as bad as I thought. I am a very shy person, so I learned to like that it wasn’t big like my other schools. I am a sophomore, and doing well in my classes, and I want to graduate from OSS. What I like most about Omaha Street School is how much the teachers care about me! They make sure I understand what they are teaching, and if I fall behind, they are here to help. They are hands on. My favorite foods are spaghetti with meat sauce and blueberry muffins. I love to read. I could read all day. I like mysteries and history. I also like to play Roadblox and watch Netflix. I also like to write. I have started a novel that I want to finish someday. Even though I wasn’t sure about coming here, I am so glad I did. I know the teachers will help me graduate and help me to go to culinary school at METRO.

Omaha Street School is giving me the confidence to succeed and become what I want to pursue in life.

THEIR HONEY

Cole’s Story

Anthony’s Story

What is most important in my life right now is graduating from high school! That is why I am glad I am at Omaha Street School. Public high school didn’t work for me. I got into the wrong crowd, my attendance was bad, and I was behind with my credits. The classes were too fast-paced, and I got behind, and there was no one to help me. When I first came to OSS, I liked it. It took away all the distractions. Big schools give me anxiety, and I don’t feel that way at OSS. The classes are way better here. Teachers give you enough time to work, and if you get stuck, they help you. I can also pace myself. I have made friends here, and I am on a better path. This school also helps me make better choices on weekends. I don’t want to get in trouble so I can come to school on Monday. When I finish this semester in the vocational program, I will have my CNA certification, and I will get a job working at a hospital. Along with being a CNA, I would like to have a couple more jobs like being a barber or clothing designer. I have always been interested in designing hoodies and pants for guys my age. If I was not at Omaha Street School, I would not be in school, not earning credits—just doing nothing. I am glad to be here!

I can say with certainty that if I was not here at the Street School, I would not be attending anywhere. I would be working at a fast-food place without a career in sight. I had trouble at the public school I was attending. I didn’t pay attention in class, didn’t focus and was always on my phone. My grades were terrible. The only class I passed was gym. My mom enrolled me at the Street School, and I am glad she did. My first impression of the Street School was how friendly everyone was. I wasn’t used to people wanting to talk to me and I wasn’t a talkative person. They made me feel at home. Small classes make it easier for me to learn. The teachers are chill. They don’t get mad right away. They walk you through what is wrong. This school gives second chances.

Without this, I would not be able to graduate.

Our family is all about cars, and I want to be a mechanic after graduation. OSS has a new vocational program and I am taking auto mechanics. Jensen Tire is our partner, and I am learning a lot from them. I am hoping to get a job with them after I graduate.

ABOUT OSS

COLLABORATIONS

16 Local Churches Bethany Men—33 Series Group Boys and Girls Club CCS Presentation Systems Children’s Hospital Creighton University Nursing Program Digital Express First Interstate Bank Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy

Omaha Christian Academy Play It Again Sports Quality Career Pathways St. Vincent De Paul Thrasher/Supportworks Union Pacific Walmart Women’s Center for Advancement YouTurn

Heartland Workforce Solutions Jensen Tire and Auto Jimmy John’s

Juvenile Justice System Lund-Ross Constructors Made New Makerspace METEO Community College Youth Forward NE Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Nebraska Vocational Rehab

2023 OSS STATS 33 STUDENTS

GRADE LEVEL Freshman—7 students (21%) Sophomore—12 students (37%)

RACIAL COMPOSITION African American—18 students (55%) Caucasian—6 students (18%) Hispanic—0 students (0%) Two or more races—9 students (27%)

FREE/REDUCED LUNCH YES—28 students (85%) NO—5 students (15%)

Junior—10 students (30%) Senior—4 students (12%)

THE HONEY GPA Average 2.3 up from 1.5

SPECIAL EDUCATION YES—24 students (73%) NO—9 students (27%)

GENDER Boys—17 students (52%) Girls—16 students (48%)

VOICES FROM OTHERS

Many years ago, John Parsons attended our church’s mission committee meeting to enlighten us about the Omaha Street School. He told the story of how he gave up a successful law career to follow God’s calling to establish OSS. It was clear he was led by God, and our hearts were touched. The vote to make OSS one of our mission partners was unanimous. Since that time, we have been serving lunch one day a month for the students and staff. Students learn much better when they are not hungry. The staff have a special calling to work with teens that I do not possess, but I am grateful to be able to support their calling in a small way through the lunch program. Presbyterian Church of the Cross has also provided family night activities, and it is amazing to watch these families make memories together. The things I am truly passionate about are few, but my dedication to the Street School continues to grow and remains a true blessing in my life.

When I was first introduced to Omaha Street School in 2018, both volunteering and teaching financial literacy were new to me. Month after month, class after class, year after year it became comfortable, natural, and more rewarding. I know talking about income vs expenses, the importance of savings and budgeting, and resume building, exciting as they sound, are probably not what high schoolers really want to be doing. Getting the students to interact, seeing that light go off in their mind, and watching them open up and truly get involved in the subject is why I keep coming back. I appreciate the relationships that I’ve built with the welcoming staff of Omaha Street School over the last 5 years and am thankful to work for an organization that encourages me to be committed to our community. I can only hope that I have helped make a positive impact on the students’ lives as they have on mine. Forever thankful for the opportunity.

Tina Morgan - Lunch Provider Presbyterian Church of the Cross

Mike Shever - Volunteer Retail Manager II, First Interstate Bank

As a local church, it has been a privilege to support Omaha Street School financially! They do incredible work every day in our city, incorporating both faith and education to help students succeed in life.

For the last few years, Made New Makerspace has been partnering with Omaha Street School, and I count it a blessing to have the opportunity. Omaha Street School has impressed me time and time again with their commitment to the kids they support. From the moment you walk in the door, you know that you’re surrounded by people who genuinely care and want to see these young people succeed. They’re building real connections every day with their students, and as a result, so many kids who once had little hope are finding a chance to shine.

Ken Jensen - Pastor of Tribe Church

Here at OSS we arrive daily to build great rapport with our students and families. We have learned that these families look to us for support in and outside of school. Having these relationships allows students to understand the amount we are all investing to make sure that they succeed. Students at OSS are saying “I love the staff here, it feels like a family”. “Thank you for asking how my mom is doing after she was in the hospital”-Alliyah. Our students ALWAYS want us to provide their favorite treats, attend their games and special events, and get to know the staff members on a deeper level. “Omaha Street School is cool, if you focus, stay out of drama, and do your work”- Mayalyn

Jim Clements - Vocational Partner Made New Makerspace

LaJoy Green - Licensed Mental Health Therapist, Omaha Street School

Linda Reimer - I love sitting down with students to get their thoughts about Omaha Street School. This was a group of awesome, articulate students and our conversation was fun and easy. Maya, James, Eli, Alliyah and Dammia are seniors, looking forward to graduating. STUDENT VOICES …SMOOTH AS HONEY

SHINE: What makes OSS unique? Eli: Not a lot of kids, smaller classes. James: One-on-one instruction, get help if needed.

Alliyah: T he environment. Everyone that comes here to talk to us is interested in us. Maya: It’s like a family. Everyone cares for each other. Even when we “fight”, we have each other’s back. Dammia: Students have a say in their improvement. SHINE: Why did you come to OSS? Dammia: To recover credits and graduate. James: My mother sent me here. It didn’t work out at other schools. I had problems. Alliyah: I didn’t stay in my seat. There were too many people, and I had anxiety. Maya: Couldn’t stay at school all day. Would leave as soon as I was dropped off. Then would go home . Eli: I was fighting. I was always in trouble, getting kicked out. SHINE: How has OSS helped you? Alliyah: Helped me earn the credits I need for graduation. I am a mother, and my children push me to do better. Dammia: OSS has surrounded me with positive people. Maya: I can do anything I put my mind to. Eli: OSS has helped me grow as a person. They helped me take a step back and look at my life to make changes. OSS is helping me to become an adult. James: Helped me calm down, matured me. SHINE: What do you want to do after high school? Maya: Go to college to become a psychiatric nurse. Eli: This summer work at CNC Surveying, then go to college to become a mechanic. Dammia: Go to METRO to become a mental health professional. James: Attend college then become famous on all social media platforms as an influencer. Alliyah: Attend college then become a franchise owner. SHINE: If we put a billboard up to advertise the Street School, what would it say? Maya: Where to go if you want a second chance at education Eli: Omaha Street School—more opportunities James: Get Education—Omaha Street School Alliyahi: Omaha Street School, somebody cares Dammia: To get a fresh start, you need a fresh outlook SHINE: What is the one obstacle in your life that would keep you from success? Eli: ME, I’m the only obstacle. James: Myself. Alliyah: Negativity. Maya: My thoughts. Dammia: Time management. SHINE: Why should individuals support the school financially? James: To give more opportunities to the students. Dammia: If a student has a vision, the staff helps to achieve their vision. Alliyah: We are not supported by the government. Maya: So the staff can get paid. Eli: We are a family, and it gets kids off the street.

ALLIYAH

ELI

MAYA

JAMES

DAMMIA

8 WAYS TO GIVE

VOLUNTEER

BE THE HONEY

True partnerships endure when both parties are committed to the same vision and goals. At Omaha Street School, volunteers have been an integral part of our success since the school’s founding. Most donated funds are dedicated to programs to help students succeed in life and the operation of the school. Everything else that is needed to operate the school is given by volunteers and donors. Volunteers help keep our doors open every day. Since 1999, they have donated truckloads of paper products, cleaning supplies, Christmas presents for the students, Christmas gift bags, bottled water, reams of copy paper, furniture, garbage bags, Smart boards, Chromebooks, and the list goes on!

Even though some of our needs have changed over the years, volunteers still selflessly respond.

Not only are we well-supplied, volunteers assist in the classrooms, tackle painting projects, clean the building, organize storage areas, and stock the breakfast room with food. They also provide lunch for students and staff every day we are in school. Individuals, churches, and businesses all participate in the lunch program. We have been so blessed through the years, meeting and working with volunteers who are dedicated to serving our students. If you have a servant’s heart, please contact Susan Schaaf, Volunteer Coordinator at 402-451-5234, ext. 4 or sschaaf@omahastreetschool.com

SHARE OMAHA

FILL THE VAN

Omaha offers the giving public opportunities to connect with Omaha nonprofits through donations, volunteering, and shopping wish lists. Go to Shareomaha.org and click Find a Nonprofit. Once there, type Omaha Street School in the search bar. From there, you can donate money, order from our wish list, or volunteer.

Throughout the year we run low on critical supplies which are important to meet the needs of our students. You can help supply the items which are important to meet the needs of our students.You can donate individually, or collect supplies from your church, business, or book club. When the items have been collected, call us and we will schedule a date and time for our van to come and pick up the supplies. Simply email Scott at schristiansen@omahastreetschool.com. Or call Scott at 402-451-5234, ext.7

BAKERS

Before your next trip to the grocery store, check out bakersplus.com/community rewards. Every time you shop and swipe your card, a portion of your bill will be donated to OSS.

For the most up-to-date list and a convenient way to fulfill items, please visit our Amazon wishlist and find items we use continually and need on a regular basis! Scan code or go to amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/394ETSZL3M07T AMAZON WISH LIST

BREAKFAST

We know that breakfast is a very important meal each day, and most of our students come to school hungry. We provide breakfast sandwiches and burritos, French toast sticks, cereal, milk, chocolate milk, juices, granola bars, and apple sauce just to name a few items. We depend on donations to fill the freezer, refrigerator, and pantry. Call Linda Reimer at 402-451-5234, ext. 3, or email her at lreimer@omahastreetchool.com for more information.

TAGG

DONATE

In just a few easy steps, you, support OSS by shopping at HYVEE or enjoying a night on the town. Check out TAGG at togetheragreatergood.com . The TAGG app connects you, local businesses, and OSS for a greater good.

We accept donations by cash, check, credit card, stocks, and business matching.

Scan code to give online.

POETRY WINNER

SHE FOUND HER VOICE

Congratulations to Meyiah! Her poem was one of 16 selected by Opera Omaha, out of 135 entries, for their 2022-23 Poetry and Music Project, “Finding My Voice.” A guest composer will work with Meyiah to put her poem to music.

Sweet Little Lullabies By Meyi a h

Sweet little lullabies, Playing as I rock my baby to bed. Quietly laying as thoughts race through my head. Mommys can never give up. Big smile on my face as we play all day, sometimes just wishing I did wait, but mommy’s

can never give up. though I am young and times may get tough this mommy can never get enough. The best of me I see in you And you brought out the best in me, God knew how much I needed you.

ANOTHER VOICE THROUGH POETRY

Fa d e By Cameria

Dreams are the great awakening potentials and visions Shine in the future

And nightmares Even vivid ones

FADE

JOYFUL VOICES

ON THE COVER

It is an honor to find the honey in our students.

There is goodness inside of each one of them. Their shell may be hard due to circumstances that have surrounded their lives, but once we chip away the hardness, we find creativity, intelligence, love and purpose. Honey has an amazing shelf life, and so do our students. It’s worth our time and effort to find the honey.

God will not give up, and neither will we.

Linda Reimer, Editor

SHINE magazine is published by Omaha Street School, Inc.

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