Jarod Ockander, was in a horrific accident this past summer. He fell from a ladder while working on his roof. He broke and dislocated five bones in his wrist, broke his hip, cracked ribs, had a compound fracture to his tibia, and broke his fibula. Since that day, he has undergone nine extensive surgeries.  Unfortunately, Jarod has had setbacks and infections that have made his healing process much slower and more complicated than anyone could have imagined. He has a long road to recovery ahead as he still has at least three more surgeries to go. He needs our community support more than ever. 


I think that we can all agree that Jarod has devoted his life to the speech and theater community. Not only is this his passion, but he has spent countless hours volunteering his time and talents to grow these activities in Nebraska. Jarod Ockander has been teaching language arts for 24 years at David City High School. He is a staple in the David City community and the school system. He announces at every football game. Jarod is an active church leader at Redeemer Lutheran Church. He has been an elder and bible school organizer. He has also led his speech and play production teams to twelve state championships and eight state runner-up awards.  In his community, Jarod has taught a youth theater program for the past fifteen years. He has prioritized the importance of arts education within his family, community, and our state.


Not only has he guided countless students in his classroom and programs, he has also promoted speech and theater throughout the state of Nebraska.  Jarod has served as the Butler County Arts Council President and board member for 20 years.  He serves on the Nebraskans for the Arts (NFTA) Board of Directors as the treasurer. He was a former president of the Nebraska Speech, Communications, and Theater Association(NSCTA). Jarod currently serves as the NSCTA Forensic Committee Chair. He has held multiple other offices within the NSCTA and has presented at countless conventions. Every summer, he has contributed an extensive amount of hours to the NSAA summer speech and play production workshops as a presenter. He lives a life of promoting a love for the arts and “giving back.”


Now it’s our turn to “give back” to him.  If you have it in your heart to help, please support Jarod through this difficult time. He is currently unable to walk without assistance. His medical expenses are staggering---and with each day, they keep rising. The extent of this life-altering accident is unfathomable, but through it all, he is still coaching, teaching, and supporting his loved ones.   Jarod needs our help: if you are able, please support him in his time of need.


Also, please send cards to 

David City High School

℅ Jarod Ockander

750 D Street

David City, NE  68632-1724


Gift cards to the following restaurants would also be appreciated: 

Subway

Runza