Alum Sarah Dragon advocates for students, carries on her family legacy

OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) didn’t just provide Sarah Dragon with an education, it helped shape her into a confident leader who advocates for students in her community.

Dragon, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education in 2007, has worked as an educator in Omaha Public Schools (OPS) for the past 18 years.

She began her career as a first-grade teacher, which deepened her understanding of the importance of student relationships and connecting with their families.

“College of Saint Mary truly prepared me for my career by providing a strong and practical foundation in education,” she said. “The education program went far beyond theory. We developed real tools, strategies and materials we could take directly into our classrooms. It was purposeful, hands-on preparation that helped guide me through my first years of teaching.”

Dragon said direct experience with students, including practicum, having students visit campus and student-teaching, allowed her to apply her classroom experience in a real-world setting. “That consistent connection between coursework and practice built my confidence and competence as an educator.”

Becoming an educator was inspired by her family, many of whom were teachers. “Education and service have always been part of my family’s story so, in many ways, it felt like a natural path,” she said.

Dragon, who is now a school counselor, works closely with families, educators and community partners to ensure students have the support and resources they need to succeed academically, socially and emotionally. She’s taking the knowledge and skills she’s gained as a counselor and is running for OPS Learning Community Subdistrict 5.

OPS groups schools into Learning Communities so they can share resources, coordinate programs and address student needs more effectively. Each subdistrict is represented by elected local educators and advocates who work to improve academic outcomes, support families and address equity issues. Dragon will be on the ballot during Nebraska’s primary election on May 12.

“The Learning Community represents the perfect intersection of community, education, family, collaboration and support,” she said. “Throughout my career, I have seen firsthand the meaningful impact that comes from this work, and I believe deeply in its mission.”

Her desire to serve her community is also rooted in her family legacy. Her grandmother was the director of the Indian-Chicano Health Center, now known as OneWorld Community Health Center.

“I grew up following her as she served families in our community simply for the sake of helping people,” Dragon said. “Watching her lead with compassion and commitment shaped who I am. She taught me that strong communities are built when we show up for one another.”

Dragon currently serves as a board member of the Nebraska State Education Association and as secretary for the South Omaha Neighborhood Alliance.

“At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to service, collaboration and strengthening the community that has given so much to me,” she said.