Danek honored with prestigious statewide award

Lincoln Board of Education Vice President Kathy Danek received the prestigious Ann Mactier Leadership for Learning Award Friday during a ceremony at the Nebraska Association of School Boards conference in LaVista. 

The Nebraska Association of School Boards and the Nebraska State Board of Education jointly sponsor this award that recognizes local school board members for their policy leadership and contributions to curriculum and instruction in Nebraska public schools.

Danek has served on the Board of Education since 2001, representing District 1 in northeast Lincoln, and her service includes four terms as president of the board – as well as serving as president of the state association.

Board member Lanny Boswell officially nominated Danek, with support from Board President Connie Duncan, “In gratitude for her long and faithful service to Nebraska public education.”  Boswell stated: “Kathy’s policy leadership and contributions to curriculum and instruction in Lincoln and Nebraska have significantly and positively impacted the learning of thousands of students.”

A few excerpts from additional letters of support

• Steve Joel, superintendent of LPS: “Kathy Danek is a champion for public education’s commitment to all children. During her two decades of service on the Lincoln Board of Education, Lincoln has become a high performing school district, recognized as a leader in the state and nation. Her leadership on the board has contributed to the district’s ability to address several major challenges, while continuing to emphasize positive outcomes for students … Kathy Danek is a tireless advocate for all children, willing to go anywhere at any time to campaign for the most important work in this state and country: public education.”
• Board member Don Mayhew: “I don’t think board service is a job for Kathy.  It is really just another facet of her commitment to the community … Helping children is part of her DNA. She was born to take a leadership role in making decisions to benefit the kids of our community … Kathy epitomizes board service, and it would not surprise me to see an award for board service named after her someday.”
• Dawes Middle School Principal Angela Plugge: “I am grateful for leaders like Kathy Danek who not only value public education, but work tirelessly to provide the governance, policy and resources required to effectively educate all of our students … As the principal at Dawes Middle School I have seen the commitment and determination she has in advocating for students and families, especially those underserved. Kathy values equity and is a vocal champion in ensuring all students have access to a high quality education as well as enrichment and extended activities outside of the classroom…She is one of the most remarkable women I have met and her legacy will be long felt not only in Lincoln Public Schools, but in all of the communities she has served.”

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