The University of Nebraska System has released the latest episode of its “Shaping the Future” video series, featuring Dr. John Skretta, superintendent of Lincoln Public Schools (LPS). The series, hosted by NU System President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., highlights leaders across Nebraska whose work is improving lives, strengthening communities and shaping the state’s future.
In the episode, President Gold and Dr. Skretta discuss his journey into education, LPS’s mission-driven strategic plan, student and staff well-being, early childhood education, workforce development and the district’s longstanding partnership with the University of Nebraska.
Dr. Skretta, a three-time graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, was chosen as LPS’s interim superintendent in January and was appointed as superintendent on a permanent basis in September. Prior to returning to LPS, he served in leadership roles with Educational Service Unit 6, Norris Public Schools and as a statewide leader in educational policy and wellness.
By the time he was a junior in high school, Dr. Skretta knew he wanted to teach, thanks to his own educators who inspired him. He described their approach as supportive, compassionate and rigorous, which motivated him to pursue classroom teaching—and recreate that environment for other young people.
Dr. Skretta noted that his interest in educational leadership developed later, during his undergraduate program at UNL, when professors reinforced the importance of literacy, lesson design and supportive learning environments.
“If you did those things within any classroom, you probably stood a pretty good shot of getting great student outcomes,” he said.
Today, Dr. Skretta leads a district that is home to more than 42,000 students with a mission to ensure every student is prepared for success in their future careers, as lifelong learners and engaged citizens.
During the conversation, he outlined LPS’s 2024-2029 strategic plan, which focuses on four critical areas: student well-being and outcomes; staff well-being and outcomes; district systems and operations; and family and community engagement. Dr. Skretta believes that each area plays an essential role in advancing LPS’s mission.
Dr. Skretta highlighted efforts to strengthen communication and partnerships in early childhood education and child care:
“We know the more we can do in the arena of birth to five, the better the outcomes will be going forward,” he said. “It’s also very important for our workforce to have a solid, financially reliable and sustainable early childhood model.”
He also celebrated the district’s deep partnership with the University of Nebraska, particularly in training future educators.
“We have about 150 student teachers annually from UNL's College of Education,” Dr. Skretta said. “It’s an incredible opportunity for us and a great pipeline for young people who become master teachers.”
New episodes of “Shaping the Future” are released monthly and feature faculty, staff, students and partners from across the University of Nebraska System and the state. Topics include K–12 and higher education, student success, healthcare, community development and more.