Donate
MenuClose

Education Rights Counsel is proud to congratulate Managing Attorney Liz McClelland on her selection as a Midlands Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree. Liz’s steadfast advocacy for youth — particularly those in the juvenile court system — has strengthened educational access and outcomes for children across Nebraska. Her blend of legal expertise, empathy, and collaboration makes her an invaluable asset to the families and professionals she serves.

“Liz brings an incredible level of commitment and compassion to her work,” said Lauren Micek Vargas, ERC’s Chief Executive Officer. “She has a unique ability to uplift young people, advocate for their needs, and bring partners together to create meaningful change. We’re thrilled to see her recognized for the impact she makes every day.”

We are honored to celebrate Liz as one of Greater Omaha’s outstanding young leaders.

Related Entries

Website 400 x 600

A win for collective advocacy, but the work to protect students is not over

On Monday, Voices for Children in Nebraska, Education Rights Counsel, and ACLU Nebraska joined community members, parents, educators, advocates, and others who spoke up about the use of electrified gloves in Nebraska schools. Our collective voice was heard. Those who raised concerns, shared their experiences, contacted decision-makers, and demanded better for Nebraska students helped make clear that these devices have no place in our schools.

Read More
Education Rights Counsel logo in white over a dark blue background

Voices for Children, Education Rights Counsel, and ACLU of Nebraska issue joint statement on use of electrified gloves in schools.

Voices for Children in Nebraska, Education Rights Counsel, and ACLU of Nebraska stand together in strong opposition to the use of electrified gloves on children in schools and to School Resource Officers carrying these devices in school buildings. There will be an opportunity to share thoughts during time for public comment at the Omaha Public Schools board meeting on Monday, August 17, at 6 p.m. Families in other Omaha-area school districts should also reach out to their school boards to ask about their districts’ policies on use of force and memoranda of understanding with the Omaha Police Department.

Read More
ERC 400x600

Aug 7, 2026  —  Media Coverage

Nebraska schools force kids into seclusion rooms. We don’t know how often it’s happening.

A Lincoln Journal Star investigation reveals that Nebraska schools are repeatedly isolating students with disabilities in seclusion rooms, often with little oversight and no statewide ban, prompting advocates to call for reform.

Read More