We want to close the opportunity gap.

WHY WE’RE HERE

The Learning Community Foundation expands and augments successful programs of the Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties. Together, our overarching goal is to close the opportunity gap.

The Learning Community is uniquely structured to improve educational outcomes in the Omaha metro area. As an educational subdivision, eleven-member school districts and community partners collaborate around shared learning and continuous program improvement. Equally important is rigorous accountability from independent evaluations of all funded programs.

As a result, programs demonstrate proven, data-informed value. Join us in this challenge to supplement public funds with private partnerships. Together, we can make proven programs accessible where children and families need them the most.

THE NEED IS GROWING

Family needs are increasing across the two-county Omaha
metro area. Childhood poverty is growing faster than the student population in general. Poverty in the area is spreading out and now impacts the majority of our school districts.

Across 11 school districts, 44% of children are eligible for free or reduced lunch (2019-2020 school year).

This is an increase of 47% during the last twenty years, with some districts experiencing over 200% increases. 

WHAT’S AT STAKE

The crisis of student achievement is now an economic imperative. We must confront the growing skills gap to build a strong, diverse workforce.

At this critical crossroads, the devastating COVID-19 pandemic raises the stakes even higher. It’s all more reason to invest in new and innovative pathways so learning is an engine for economic growth.