Seward Public Schools

Message from Dr. Fields

Thank you for taking the time to review our Annual Report for the 2024–2025 academic year. Seward Public Schools is proud to serve 1,500 students in grades PK–12, and we remain honored to be recognized as a destination district for families. We are equally proud of the many accomplishments our students achieved during the past school year. The dedication of our staff, strong support from parents, and meaningful engagement with our community continue to uphold and strengthen Seward’s long-standing tradition of excellence.

We are now in the second year of implementing our District Strategic Plan, developed collaboratively by staff, students, parents, community members, and our Board of Education. This year, our primary areas of focus include staff recruitment and retention, the continued development of our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and preparation for a 2026 bond referendum. These priorities, along with our site-level plans, help ensure that Seward Public Schools continues to grow and improve. We firmly believe that if we are not progressing, we are falling behind.

Our growth mindset has driven the development of effective district-wide systems, such as Professional Learning Communities, curriculum alignment efforts, expanded early childhood programs, and a growing array of Career Academies. This dedication to continuous improvement is reflected in our “Excellent” classification from the Nebraska Department of Education—an honor we have earned for eight consecutive years. Seward is one of only two Class A or B districts in Nebraska to receive this distinction for such a sustained period.

This Annual Report highlights progress in state assessment performance, but we recognize that test scores represent only one measure of success. We also consider graduation rates, college-going rates, course offerings, career exploration opportunities, and survey data. In addition, we remain committed to ensuring students have access to comprehensive fine arts, career and technical education, technology, athletics, speech, drama, and other activities. Our goal is to prepare Seward High School graduates to be well-rounded, thoughtful, and resilient individuals who are ready to contribute in meaningful ways.

Those interested in learning more about Seward Public Schools may review our district profile through the Nebraska Education Profile at https://nep.education.ne.gov/. Additional information is available on our district website at www.sewardpublicschools.org.