Educational Service Unit 13

It is truly an honor to serve as the Administrator of Educational Service Unit 13. I’ve had the privilege of working with ESU 13 for many years, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead an organization so deeply committed to serving, supporting, and empowering our schools, families, and communities.

Throughout my career, I’ve worn several hats—starting as a Teacher of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing, then serving in roles including Secondary Transition Specialist, Special Education Coordinator and Director, and later, Director of Student Services for Gering Public Schools. Most recently, I had the opportunity to support statewide efforts through the Nebraska Department of Education as a Co-Coordinator for NeMTSS. Each of these experiences has shaped my belief in the power of partnership, innovation, and intentional support—all central to the mission and vision of ESU 13.

At ESU 13, we are guided by a mission to achieve educational excellence for all learners by collaborating with schools, families, and communities—serving with equity, efficiency, and integrity, communicating effectively, and leading with innovation. These aren’t just words on a wall—they define how we show up every day across our 21 member school districts and the communities we proudly serve.

Our work is grounded in five core values:
Service & Hospitality, Healthy Partnerships, Innovation, Nurturing Communication, and Empowering Leadership. These values shape everything we do—from aligning services and evaluating impact, to investing in the wellbeing of our team and expanding the reach of our collaborative relationships.

At ESU 13, we’re especially focused on unlocking Big Potential—the kind of success that grows when we lift each other up, celebrate progress, and thrive as a connected team. We want our staff to lean into their individual and collective strengths to better support one another and the schools we serve. I truly believe that when we combine purpose, partnership, and positivity, we create an ecosystem where everyone has the opportunity to shine.

A bit about me personally—my educational journey began at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. I later completed my specialist and doctoral degrees in Educational Administration, also from UNL, and hold a second master’s degree from Chadron State College. I’m blessed with a wonderful family—my husband Bryan works in agricultural finance, and we love traveling together with our two sons, who are always up for the next adventure.

As we move forward together, I’m excited to continue this important work—lifting up others, creating meaningful connections, and helping every learner realize their full potential.

Thank you for visiting our site. I invite you to explore more about ESU 13 and all the ways we are working to serve, support, and empower across the Panhandle and beyond.

Warmly,
Dr. Laura Barrett
Administrator, ESU 13

 

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Hey Laura!

I want to hear from you if you see:

• -ESU 13 Staff SHINING by carrying out our core values of 
  • Service & Hospitality
  • Healthy Partnerships
  • Innovation
  • Nurturing Communication
  • Empowering Leadership
• Something you've observed or heard that needs attention
• Your ideas to make ESU 13 & the service we provide better

Submit your ideas at any time through this Hey Laura! form.

 

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Administrator Contract

Administrator Contract 2025-2028.pdf

Schedule D 2025-2028.pdf