Ralston board honors softball team, state cross-country qualifiers and Kid Governor participants

The Ralston Public Schools Board on Monday recognized several student groups for recent achievements, highlighting athletics and a new statewide civics program for elementary students.

Coach Gentry told the board the girls softball team finished the season 22-9, reached the state tournament (the program—s first appearance in 11 years) and set multiple school records. "This year, we finished our season 22 and 9...we were the number 7 ranked team by the Omaha World-Herald," Coach Gentry said, noting Mackenzie McCrander—s single-season strikeout mark (252) and a career total of 583 strikeouts.

Superintendent Mister Buckingham and other board members praised the broader community support for athletics. "It really takes commitment out of everyone in order for a program to be successful," Buckingham said.

The board also recognized two students who qualified for the state cross-country meet. Coaches described strong district finishes and the students— competitive state times; the board commended their commitment to training and family support.

Separately, the communications office introduced the district—s first participation in Civic Nebraska—s Kid Governor program for fifth-graders. Two Meadows students, Delaney and Charlie, presented video platforms developed during the program. Delaney urged families to adopt and foster animals and described outreach activities to raise adoption rates. Charlie said he wanted to raise cancer awareness and proposed student fundraisers and partnerships with programs such as Camp Kesem.

Board members encouraged the district to follow up on feasible student proposals and thanked families and staff who supported the students— participation. The recognitions were presented before the board moved to the evening—s regular business.