Millard partners with UNO on discounted master's program for staff; 52 employees enrolled

Millard Public Schools staff reported on the Miller Graduate Program, a district partnership with the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) that offers a 36-credit master's degree targeted primarily at elementary teachers and focused on reading and mathematics. District presenters said the program uses Millard instructors as course faculty, holds classes locally and provides significant tuition discounts and reimbursement supports.

Program structure and enrollment

The program contains 12 courses (36 credit hours). Millard staff said courses include a mix of elementary-focused reading and math content and pre-K–12 offerings; participants may complete the degree in about two years by taking two courses per semester. Presenters reported 52 participants enrolled in the full program, with 28 on track to graduate in spring 2026 and 23 taking single courses.

Cost and financial support

Presenters outlined a per-course cost comparison: UNO’s standard per-course price cited by staff was $1,964. Millard said UNO waived some fees, lowering the base to $1,286; Millard contributes $400 per course, and the district covers books and materials, which reduced the district-era per-course cost to $836. Staff described the Nebraska Enhancing Excellence in Teaching Program (EETP) as an additional reimbursement pathway; if a participant qualifies for EETP (a tuition-reimbursement program tied to service commitments in Nebraska), that could lower the participant’s per-course out-of-pocket cost to approximately $311.

Presenters emphasized three program benefits: (1) UNO awards a recognized master's degree (the degree is not a district-only credential), (2) course content is locally contextualized and often taught by district experts, and (3) classes meet in district facilities (Ron Witt and select school sites), limiting travel for staff.

Administration and next steps

District staff said they chose UNO after a request-for-proposal process that evaluated flexibility, cost, and the ability to use district teachers as faculty. Millard staff and UNO will continue sequencing courses, managing wait lists and evaluating demand; district advisors Shelley Mann and Joe (last name not specified in the transcript) serve as local program advisors. Presenters said the program currently operates at or near capacity for offered sections and the district will monitor demand and capacity before expanding offerings.

Ending

Board members praised the program’s early uptake. Presenters asked staff and board to continue supporting the program; no formal board action was taken during the update.