OUR MISSION
The mission of Nelson Mandela Elementary is to provide quality instruction that demonstrates ALL students can learn and develop academically, emotionally, socially and physically. Nelson Mandela Elementary is committed to maximizing the educational success of all students and bridging learning and achievement gaps.
ABOUT US
Nelson Mandela Elementary is a private, tuition-free K-5 elementary school located in North Omaha. The school is fully funded by the Lozier Foundation and The Ruth and William Scott Family Foundation. Mandela first opened its doors in 2015 after Dianne Lozier and Dr. Susan Toohey decided they wanted to create a unique school that would serve the community of North Omaha.
At Mandela, scholars experience a rigorous and advanced curriculum, year-round school, frequent recesses, restorative practices in the classroom, and data-driven interventions. Every scholar also plays the violin through the program String Sprouts, offered by the Omaha Conservatory of Music.
WHY THE NAME?
After numerous community input sessions where a variety of names were discussed, the overwhelming support was for Nelson Mandela Elementary. The ideals that Nelson Mandela held regarding education and its role in changing the world are what we aspire to as a school.
OUR MANTRA
Nelson Mandela said, "education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world." Every morning our scholars recite these words and also say, "and I will change the world with my hope, strength, service, unity, peace, and wisdom." Every day, scholars strive to embody these qualities so that they can change the world someday.
CURRICULUM
Three key curriculum initiatives that we will be using at the new school are Spalding Reading, Singapore Math and Violin Sprouts.
SINGAPORE MATH
Supporters of Singapore math credit the Singaporean methods of instruction and curriculum for its students’ success. While American math instruction often relies on drilling and memorization of many skills each year, Singapore math focuses on children not just learning but also truly mastering a limited number of concepts each school year. The goal is for children to perform well because they understand the material on a deeper level; they are not just learning it for the test.
SPALDING READING
Those who undertake the courses and implement the total Spalding program frequently and consistently agree it is the best professional development they have completed. You will be astounded by the results the program universally achieves in such a short time. WRTR is the complete package and your search for a total program in all facets of English is finally complete.
VIOLIN SPROUTS
Every student will learn to play the violin through partnership with the Omaha Conservatory of Music. Watch the video to learn more about the connection between brain development and playing an instrument.