FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gretna, NE - January 27, 2026
Gretna Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Beth Cerny as the district’s new Assistant Director of Special Education. This position became available following Dr. Schneider’s promotion to Director of Special Education. Ms. Cerny will officially begin her new role with the district in July 2026.
Ms. Cerny brings more than a decade of experience in special education, behavior support, and program leadership across Nebraska and California. She currently serves as a Behavior Facilitator for Gretna Public Schools, where she supports high-needs special education programming, provides districtwide professional development, collaborates with IEP teams, and assists in developing innovative behavior programs. Her previous experience includes serving as a Program Specialist in California, overseeing programs for emotional disturbance, adult transition, and alternative education.
Superintendent Travis Lightle said, “We are excited for Beth as she moves into this leadership position. She not only brings administrative experience from her time in California but she has made a positive impact in our district in just over a year and a half. She was instrumental in creating the Foundational Skills Program when she saw a need last year, while also helping start the new special education teacher cohort last summer focused on helping new teachers prepare for their positions.”
Throughout her career, Ms. Cerny has held a variety of instructional and leadership roles, including special education teacher, behavior specialist, and administrator. She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and maintains multiple administrative and teaching certifications in Nebraska and California. Her work reflects a strong focus on inclusive practices, staff support, and ensuring students have meaningful access to learning.
As Assistant Director of Special Education, Ms. Cerny will support district special education programming, collaborate with school teams, and help ensure services align with district goals while meeting the diverse needs of all learners. Gretna Public Schools looks forward to the leadership and expertise she will bring to the district.