District OR-1 Public Schools is proud to announce that Bennet Elementary Principal Jared Haag has been named one of just three Nebraska recipients of the 2026 Lozier LIGHTS Outstanding Principal Award. Presented by the Lozier Foundation, this prestigious honor recognizes elementary principals who have demonstrated significant student growth in reading or mathematics. Under Mr. Haag’s leadership, Bennet Elementary has made remarkable academic progress. Since the 2024–2025 school year, the percentage of students meeting the school’s reading growth benchmark increased from 60% to 71%. Mathematics saw similar gains, climbing from 63% to 72%. Bennet Elementary also earned an Excellent rating through the Nebraska Department of Education’s AQuESTT accountability system.
Since joining District OR-1 in 2024, Mr. Haag has prioritized academic excellence while fostering a positive school culture. He guided the implementation of a new math curriculum during his first year and a new reading curriculum during his second. He also introduced IXL Learning and Boost Reading to provide personalized academic support during dedicated reading and math intervention periods known as WIN (What I Need) Time. Beyond instructional improvements, Mr. Haag has established teacher-led committees focused on literacy and school safety as well as student behavior and academic interventions. These committees empower educators to take ownership of their school’s success and have a meaningful voice in its future. His commitment to a positive school culture is equally evident in his daily interactions with students. Whether visiting with students in the lunchroom or celebrating their accomplishments through Panther Paw Winners and Panther Reader of the Week, Mr. Haag works to create an environment where every student feels valued and motivated to succeed.
“Jared has done an exceptional job creating a culture at Bennet Elementary where students feel valued and teachers feel empowered,” said District OR-1 Superintendent Mr. Hart. “He understands that a successful school is built on strong relationships and a shared commitment to doing what’s best for kids. The academic growth we’re seeing is a reflection of that leadership and the incredible staff he works alongside every day.”
For Mr. Haag, the recognition is about much more than individual achievement. “While I couldn’t be prouder of the academic growth our students have demonstrated over the past two years, I am even more proud of the culture we have built,” he shared. “We’ve created an environment where students are excited to come to school each day, where relationships matter, and where every child feels valued.” He credits the school’s success to the dedication of his staff and their willingness to embrace change. “This recognition is a reflection of the dedication, countless hours, and collective commitment of our entire staff, and I couldn’t be more excited to see their hard work celebrated.”
As part of the Lozier LIGHTS recognition, Mr. Haag will receive a $10,000 award while Bennet Elementary will receive $25,000 to support school initiatives. He will be formally honored at an awards ceremony on November 5 in Omaha. This prestigious recognition celebrates his outstanding leadership and the collective dedication of the educators and students who make Bennet Elementary a place where Panthers thrive.