Columbus Public Schools (CPS) Superintendent Dr. Chip Kay joined KLIR radio host Riley Scott on February 4 to highlight recent district successes, upcoming community engagement efforts, and ongoing discussions about student growth and school capacity planning.
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Dr. Kay began by celebrating CPS staff and students who have recently received state and national recognition. Middle school math teacher Joni Ebel was awarded the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, a distinction given to only 300 educators nationwide and just six in Nebraska. “Joni has been with CPS for 24 years, and this award reflects her dedication to helping students succeed in math,” Dr. Kay said.
Several CPS students also stood out for their accomplishments. The FCCLA team (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) had multiple students qualify for the state competition on April 7, and the Diamond Dancers placed third in the nation in the high-kick category at a national dance competition in Orlando. Additionally, middle school students were recognized with Scholastic Art Awards, and CPS will honor all of these individuals at an upcoming Board Recognition event.
CPS is also preparing to host the Destination Imagination state competition at the middle school, a program that challenges students in creative problem-solving and STEM-related projects. “This is a fantastic opportunity for our students and families, and our staff has worked hard to bring this event to Columbus,” Dr. Kay said.
Addressing School Growth and Future Planning
Dr. Kay provided updates on the district’s ongoing focus groups and planning efforts in response to Columbus’s rapid growth. With over 1,000 new housing units expected to be completed by 2027, the district anticipates significant increases in student enrollment. CPS is methodically reviewing options, including reconfiguring existing buildings, adjusting school boundaries, and considering limited construction projects. A community-wide discussion is planned for March to gather broader feedback.
“We know growth is coming, and we want a well-thought-out plan that will serve our students for the next 5 to 10 years,” Dr. Kay said.
Legislative Updates and School Safety
Dr. Kay also addressed concerns about school safety following national policy changes regarding immigration enforcement on school grounds. He reassured families that CPS follows strict procedures for visitor access and emphasized that student safety and security remain the district’s top priority.
Additionally, Dr. Kay shared that he is currently monitoring 90 state legislative bills that could impact education in Columbus. “Legislation can have a direct effect on our students, staff, and community, so staying on top of these policies is crucial,” he said.
With strong student achievements, proactive planning, and a commitment to safety and academic excellence, CPS is positioning itself for continued success in 2024 and beyond.
For more information on CPS events and initiatives, visit our news page.