LPS superintendent addresses AI in classrooms, e-bike safety and bus driver need

LINCOLN, Neb. — As Lincoln Public Schools wraps up its first week of classes, Superintendent John Skretta said the district is taking a measured approach to technology in the classroom.

According to Skretta, Lincoln Public Schools Board is pursuing a holistic approach to technology use, including artificial intelligence. Teachers have access to Google Gemini, but students do not. Skretta said the district is focused on educating students about appropriate uses for AI.

“As part of our information library services curriculum, we do address those things such as appropriate image generation and use of content from the Internet,” Skretta said.

Every middle and high school student is provided a Chromebook laptop. Skretta said that while typing is an important skill, writing by hand also helps students better retain what they learn.

E-bikes, transportation and bus driver need

Skretta also addressed how students get to and from school, particularly as e-bikes and e-scooters have grown in popularity. The city of Lincoln is looking at further defining e-bikes and e-scooters and limiting where they can be used. Currently, there are no restrictions on where they can be ridden, including on Lincoln Public Schools property, except when students are on campus.

“We know that the prevalence of e-bikes has really grown exponentially over the last several years. Our emphasis and our point of communication has been pretty simple, which is, when you get to campus on that e-bike, walk your wheels. Walk your wheels, because we want you to be safe,” Skretta said.

The district is also still in need of bus drivers. Lincoln Public Schools buses nearly 5,000 students per day across about 127 daily routes. The district will provide Commercial Driver’s License training for interested applicants who do not yet have the certification.

If you are interested in a career with LPS, visit the district website.

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