Oh, to be a child in the greater Omaha area! Editing this annual issue of Family Guide has reminded me how lucky I am to raise a family right here in Nebraska. We are truly fortunate to have some of the best educational opportunities available as well as extraordinary extracurriculars designed to appeal to and enrich every child.
UNMC’s High School Alliance educates Omaha students through specialized classes designed to showcase all the professional possibilities available in healthcare, whether that’s working as a doctor or leading cutting-edge research into cancer therapies. There are only a handful of such programs in the country, and I hope more students will take advantage of this exceptional educational offering.
Marian High School’s Cecil Urbanski shows what talented students can do when they have the right support and encouragement to achieve their full potential. This young artist’s work will be featured on a Metro bus, so make sure to keep an eye out for her vibrant design to roll down a street near you. Westside’s Shefsky family similarly demonstrates how athletic youth can excel both on and off the court. It takes a village as well as committed, involved parents to raise a child, and Jessica and Andy Shefsky show how to be both.
Central High School’s Sarah Cowan gives voice to her choral students, emphasizing an accepting atmosphere of inclusivity, as does Fran Sillau, the director of accessibility at the Rose Theater. All youth deserve the opportunity to thrive, flourish, and express themselves, and these educational leaders show how that can be achieved.
Then, of course, there is our special summer camp listing. No matter what your child’s passion may be—sports, art, theater, writing, creative play, crafts, camping, and more—you will find a camp to engage every interest.
This annual issue truly underscores all the wonderful opportunities students in our community have. I hope you enjoy perusing all the possibilities presented on these pages.
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