Paul Gausman

Dr. Paul Gausman serves as Superintendent Emeritus for Lincoln Public Schools in Nebraska. He joined LPS in 2022, leading the state’s second-largest and rapidly growing district through post-pandemic recovery and into a period of innovation and expansion. During his tenure, the district’s graduation rate rose from 82% to 87%, preschool access expanded significantly, and major initiatives around career education, school safety, and staff retention were successfully launched. He also helped raise over $2.5 million for student-athletic facilities and led the development of the district’s Strategic Plan through 2029.

Before Lincoln, Dr. Gausman served for 14 years as superintendent of Sioux City Community School District in Iowa, where the graduation rate exceeded 90%, and the district earned national recognition for initiatives in early learning, career academies, and digital learning. He was named Iowa Superintendent of the Year in 2014 and was a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year in 2018. His leadership was also featured in the national documentary Bully, reflecting his commitment to school safety and anti-bullying efforts.

Dr. Gausman holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of St. Thomas and multiple advanced degrees in education and music. Nationally respected, he served as president of the Urban Superintendents Association of America and has remained deeply engaged in advocacy, community partnerships, and innovation in public education.