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Board votes to name North Highs new stadium for Jean R. Haines after unanimous waiver and approval
Summary
After a presentation by the stadium committee and supporters in the room, the board unanimously waived the naming policy and approved naming the new North High stadium "Jean R. Haines Stadium." The stadium is part of Project Game On with philanthropic and city partners.
The Omaha Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously to waive Policy 7000 and to name the districts new North High stadium "Jean R. Haines Stadium." Board members first voted to waive the policy that governs naming and memorial decisions, then approved the naming by roll call (eight aye votes recorded).
Langston Friesen, high school principal supervisor and chair of the committee that developed the recommendation, described Project Game On as a partnership launched with funders including the Lozier Foundation and the Sherwood Foundation and partners such as the YMCA of Greater Omaha and the City of Omaha. "Once complete, this stadium will offer new amenities and serve students, athletes, parents, and community members for generations to come," Friesen said. He told the board that the committee met in April, May and June and that the recommendation for "Jean R. Haines Stadium" was unanimous.
Vice President Snipes and other board members described the naming as honoring leadership that shaped generations of students and emphasized the stadiums neighborhood importance. Board discussion noted the project includes a new press box, concessions, restrooms, team rooms, equipment storage and accessibility improvements; Friesen said capacity will be similar to Central High School and Northwest High School and that the funding also includes renovation of existing locker rooms.
Jean Haines, the honoree, spoke briefly and thanked the board and community for the honor, saying he remains committed to supporting Omaha Public Schools.
Outcome and next steps: the waiver of Policy 7000 and the naming passed by roll call (recorded as eight aye); the project continues under Project Game On partnerships and the district will proceed with naming recognition.
