Today was a great day for Gretna Public Schools. Gretna High School earned the silver and Gretna East High School brought home the championship. Both schools also received the Best Actor award, highlighting the talent and dedication of our students. Congratulations to all on an exceptional season.
Gretna, NE – December 9, 2025
Gretna Public Schools is thrilled to announce Dr. Kendra Schneider as the new Director of Special Education, effective July 1, 2026, following Paul Duin’s retirement. Dr. Schneider has served as Assistant Director since 2021, leading program supervision, compliance, and professional learning initiatives.
“I’m extremely excited to serve as the Director of Special Education for Gretna Public Schools,” Dr. Schneider said. “Paul Duin has been an incredible mentor, and I’m honored to build upon the strong foundation and high-quality programs established by him and Deb Siemers, the previous Director of Special Education. I look forward to working alongside our talented special education team, collaborating with families, and ensuring every student receives the support they need. Gretna Public Schools’ commitment to excellence in special education is evident, and I’m eager to contribute to our continued growth and success.”
Superintendent Travis Lightle added, “We are excited to announce Dr. Schneider as our new Director of Special Education. Her leadership over the last five years has led to positive changes in our district, and our department’s retention rate remains the envy of the state because of it. Dr. Schneider’s experience and genuine dedication to Gretna Public Schools make her the ideal person to continue advancing our programs.”
Dr. Schneider brings more than 20 years of experience in special education and also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. She holds a Doctorate and two Master’s degrees from the University of Nebraska and is actively involved in statewide initiatives advancing special education.
All GPS seniors & families are invited to FAFSA Completion Night at Gretna High School on December 11th. Get support, ask questions, and complete your FAFSA with confidence. Please scan the QR code or click the link to RSVP. https://signup.com/go/jjVxncw
Football Sendoff! Good luck to the team as they take on Waverly for the state title. Tonight at 7:15 in Memorial Stadium. Go Griffs!
Watch Here
Gretna Public Schools Board of Education Attends 2025 NASB State Education Conference
The Gretna Public Schools Board of Education spent two days at the 2025 NASB State Education Conference—Nebraska’s largest annual gathering for school board leaders. The event provides valuable training and collaboration on key topics such as legislative updates, emerging educational trends, student well-being, school safety, school finance, and effective district governance.
By participating, board members bring back insights that support informed decision-making and strengthen the long-term success of Gretna Public Schools. We appreciate their dedication to professional growth and continued service to our students, staff, and community.
Gretna East High School Veterans Day tribute.
Thank you to all who have served.
Video Link
Our school district’s Annual Community Report is now available on our website! It showcases our achievements, financial stewardship, and goals for the year ahead. We encourage all staff to take a few moments to review this important update and stay informed about our district’s progress.
View full report on our website https://tinyurl.com/5n8u3jk5
What Students Wish Adults Knew — Tonight at Gretna High!
Join Gretna Public Schools for an evening with Stephen Mackey, co-author of The Locker Room.
Exhibits begin at 6:00 PM and the presentation starts at 7:00 PM.
Come listen, learn, and connect with your community.
Tonight’s the conversation you don’t want to miss.
Date: October 24 | Time: 6 PM
Hy-Vee tailgate available for purchase!
Come hang out, enjoy some food, and support the Gretna Backpack Program. Make an impact in our community!
#GretnaBackpack #CommunityUnity #BeGretnaGreat
1st in Class
Outstanding Flute Duet
Outstanding Music Performance
Outstanding Visual Performance
Outstanding General Effect
Outstanding Drum Majors
Great start to the season, and good luck the rest of the way!
Today Superintendent Lightle stepped into a new role as school bus driver. From elementary to high school, students were surprised to see him behind the wheel. Our elementary students showed their approval with big smiles and a thumbs up. It was a wonderful reminder that leadership means being ready to help wherever needed. Thank you to Superintendent Lightle and all of our dedicated staff who make sure students arrive safely every day. #BeGretnaGreat
53 student leaders from Gretna High, Gretna East, and Pleasanton came together for the first of four leadership sessions with Stephen Mackey. Students, ranging from freshmen to seniors, took part in an interactive experience focused on leading with integrity, influencing others in positive ways, and building a culture that lasts.
Mackey, co-author of The Locker Room and founder of 2Words Character Development, shared powerful lessons drawn from more than 20 years of working with students and coaches. This was just the beginning, as our student leaders will continue meeting with him throughout the year to strengthen their leadership and make a lasting impact in their schools and beyond.
Please join us for the GPS college fair on September 23rd at Gretna High School. All students are welcome. Scan the QR code or click the link to pre-register and save time. https://app.strivescan.com/registration
Please join us for the GPS college fair on September 23rd at Gretna High School. All students are welcome. Scan the QR code or click the link to pre-register and save time. https://app.strivescan.com/registration
We are proud to announce this year’s court—an incredible group of leaders, classmates, and friends who represent the best of GEHS spirit. Congratulations to all, and we can’t wait to celebrate together at Homecoming!
August 22, 2025 • 6:15pm • Gretna East Gym
Join us as we honor our students, coaches, and staff for earning some of Nebraska’s highest activity awards:
NSAA Cup Class B Girls Division Champions
Buckle Up Phone Down Cup Class B Girls Champions
Boys 2nd Place – Buckle Up Phone Down Cup Class B
All School 3rd Place – Buckle Up Phone Down Cup Class B
These awards recognize the best activities programs in the state across athletics and fine arts. Come celebrate with us as Gretna East continues to #BeGretnaGreat!
