Listen To Interview with Gene Russel here
OGALLALA, Neb. (July 30, 2025) — As the calendar turns to August, the energy is building at Ogallala Public Schools ahead of the first day of school on Wednesday, August 14. Superintendent Gene Russel says the district is eager to welcome students back with new programs, facility upgrades, and a strong emphasis on community support and student readiness.
Among the key initiatives this year is the “Kick Start to Kindergarten” program. Designed to help incoming kindergarteners ease into their new environment, the program gives students a chance to meet their teachers and experience a mock school day before the official first day of class.
“This helps take away the tears and anxiety for both kids and parents,” Russell said. “It’s a smooth transition that sets the tone for the year.”
Facilities Get a Fresh Look
Russel says students and families will notice major updates across the district, especially at Prairie View School, where modernization efforts include new record boards, upgraded trophy cases, a freshly painted gym, and a new video scoreboard. At the high school, renovations include remodeled restrooms and custom murals by local artist Brianna Benton, helping create a more engaging and modern atmosphere.
“We’ve worked hard to save over the last four or five years so we could reinvest in the student experience,” said Russel. “We believe our kids deserve to walk into a building that feels exciting and inspiring.”
Preschool Expansion in the Works
One of the most significant proposals on the horizon is a possible expansion of the district’s preschool offerings. Ogallala Public Schools is exploring the addition of new preschool classrooms, potentially at the National Guard Armory, to help address a critical early education gap.
According to district data, about 60% of incoming kindergarten students have little to no formal preschool experience.
“We’re seeing too many kids show up not ready—socially, emotionally, or academically,” Russel said. “This expansion could help close that gap and offer free, accessible education to the students who need it most.”
The proposal is still under discussion and will be a topic at upcoming school board meetings in August and September, as the board finalizes its budget and levy.
Russel encourages community members to share their input early: “This is the time to get involved. We want to hear your thoughts before decisions are made.”
New Staff, Fall Sports and Community Spirit
Teachers officially report back to school on Friday, August 8, with returning staff beginning in-service training on Monday, August 11. Russell says the district is welcoming several new staff members this fall and is focused on getting everyone ready for a strong start.
And it wouldn’t be back-to-school season without fall sports. Volleyball, football, cross country, and girls golf all kick off the first week, and the district is rolling out some fun new additions to its concession stands—including soft-serve ice cream and a refreshed menu aimed at making game night the place to be in town.
“It’s going to be fun,” Russel said. “We’re working hard to enhance the experience for students, families, and fans.”
With energy high and plenty of excitement in the air, Ogallala Public Schools is set for a fresh start filled with community, commitment, and continued growth.
For more information or to get involved with district initiatives, residents are encouraged to contact the superintendent’s office.