By Elizabeth Tegtmeier
The last State Board of Education meeting for 2024 was held on Dec. 6 in Lincoln, NE.
Model Policy
The board adopted a model policy for authorized security personnel to carry firearms in schools as required in Neb. Rev Stat. 28-1204.04. This policy only applies to Class I and II school districts located in communities under 5,000 inhabitants.
The NDE worked with the state patrol to establish criteria for the model policy, determine necessary training for authorized personnel, and clarify the language of the law.
The policy outlines requirements for qualifications to be considered for authorization, how firearms should be stored and worn, and required documentation, training, and evaluations.
LB1339 was introduced by Senator Tom Brewer in an effort to enable rural schools to respond quickly to an active threat when law enforcement is not nearby.
Revisions to regulations around certification and endorsements
Rules regarding teacher certification and the addition of endorsements were approved. Some revisions address concerns that have been brought to me by district 7 constituents.
Reciprocity is now available for teachers holding an unencumbered out-of-state teaching certificate. Additional college coursework may no longer be required for many applicants.
Professional development can now be considered for renewal of certification and all expired certificates, regardless of the length of expiration, have the same requirements for renewal.
Current Nebraska teachers can add endorsements by demonstrating subject matter proficiency through either coursework or content area tests. Certified teachers will no longer have to student teach to add additional endorsements since they have already completed this requirement and currently demonstrate classroom competencies on a daily basis.
This change will particularly benefit small or rural schools needing to add a section or two of a particular course but not needing an additional full-time teacher.
These changes have been sent to the attorney general’s office to check for adherence to statute before going to the governor to be signed.
School ratings
The 2023-24 Nebraska Education Profile data is available on the NDE website. Each district and individual buildings are given a classification of Excellent, Great, Good, or Needs Improvement based on demonstrated student proficiency, growth towards proficiency, chronic absenteeism, and other metrics.
To view data: Go to http://nep.education.ne.gov . Scroll to District and School Data. Type in district name. Select a school to view individual building data.
Serving District 7
I have enjoyed many opportunities to visit districts this fall. Both Hershey and Cozad Public Schools invited me to new building ribbon cutting ceremonies. The significant commitment that taxpayers have supported is a testament to each town’s high regard for education and the future of their students.
Ord Public Schools hosted me on a tour to see how they are serving students and learn about the challenges and adaptations that rural districts face. I recently visited with administrators and staff at Lexington Public Schools to continue our previous conversations about their district. I also updated them on the work of the board.
It has been a privilege to represent the citizens of the 44 counties that comprise district seven on the Nebraska State Board of Education these past two years and to serve as board president for 2024. I look forward to new opportunities to improve education in Nebraska during 2025.
The next business meeting of the board is January 10, 2025, in Lincoln at the Nebraska Department of Education. The public is encouraged to attend.