An analysis of the implemented desegregation plan of the elementary schools of Omaha, Nebraska

The purpose of this study was to provide an analysis of the desegregation plan of the elementary schools of the School District of Omaha, Nebraska. The effects resulting from the implementation of The Plan encompassing the period from the Fall of 1976 through the Fall of 1984 were reviewed and analyzed. A review of the documented research was presented to discuss major court decisions which may have directly or indirectly influenced court-ordered desegregation in the Omaha Public Schools. The study also presented related desegregation studies, establishing trends in other metropolitan school districts in the United States. The findings of the study were: (1) The Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice conducted an investigation of the School District of Omaha, Nebraska in response to a complaint alleging racial discrimination. (2) The investigation resulted in a court order by the Department of Justice in which the Omaha Public Schools were to prepare a desegregation plan which was to be formulated, implemented and approved no later than the beginning of the 1976-77 school year. This plan was to provide for full integration of the Omaha Public Schools. (3) The racial composition of the elementary schools during the approach years was to change significantly as a result of school desegregation. (4) Enrollment was effected significantly only during the first two years of the implementation of The Plan. Public acceptance began to emerge and a more stabilized enrollment was realized. (5) Administrators, teachers, parents, students and community leaders were also effected in various ways by the changes resulting from the court-ordered desegregation. With a strong spirit of cooperation and willingness to put forth a unified effort, the results appeared to be most positive and supportive. Conclusions in this study include the over-arching premise that the most critical ingredient in the evolvement of a successful desegregation plan lies in the attitudes of people. It is also essential to list the emergence of the magnet school concept as key to the success of a continued desegregation plan after a court order has been lifted