Nebraska Administrative Code Topic - EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF
1. Teacher Certification Requirements (Title 92 NAC, Chapter 21)
Summary:
The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) sets requirements for teacher licensure, including academic credentials, background checks, and continuing education.
Case Example:
A recent college graduate wants to teach high school biology in Omaha:
They must submit proof of a bachelor’s degree in biology, complete a teacher preparation program, and pass the state certification exams.
The NDE reviews transcripts, conducts a criminal background check, and issues a teaching certificate valid for a certain number of years.
The teacher must renew the certificate periodically and complete continuing education credits.
Implication:
This ensures that teachers are qualified and meet state educational standards. Attempting to teach without certification is illegal and can result in fines or revocation of employment.
2. Student Attendance Policies (Title 92 NAC, Chapter 10)
Summary:
Nebraska law mandates that students attend school regularly, and local districts must enforce attendance policies while tracking absences.
Case Example:
A student in a rural school district misses 15 days in a semester without valid excuses:
The school district contacts the parents, documents absences, and offers intervention such as counseling or tutoring.
If unexcused absences continue, the district may notify the county attorney for potential truancy proceedings.
Implication:
Attendance policies are enforced to ensure students receive consistent education. Schools are required to monitor, document, and act on excessive absences.
3. Special Education Services (Title 92 NAC, Chapter 51)
Summary:
Schools must provide appropriate education for students with disabilities under federal IDEA and state regulations, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Case Example:
A student with a learning disability in Lincoln requires additional reading support:
The school convenes an IEP team, including parents, teachers, and specialists, to develop a plan with accommodations and goals.
Services may include extra reading instruction, assistive technology, and modified assignments.
Progress is monitored and reviewed annually to adjust services as needed.
Implication:
Special education rules guarantee equitable access to education for all students, and noncompliance can result in state intervention or loss of funding.
4. School Accreditation and Performance Standards (Title 92 NAC, Chapters 10 & 100)
Summary:
The NDE accredits schools based on curriculum quality, staff qualifications, student performance, and safety standards.
Case Example:
A small school in Scottsbluff fails to meet state math proficiency standards:
The NDE conducts a site visit, reviews curriculum, teaching practices, and standardized test scores.
The school develops a corrective action plan to improve instruction and student outcomes.
Failure to comply with the plan can affect accreditation status and eligibility for state funding.
Implication:
Accreditation ensures that schools maintain educational quality and accountability for student outcomes.
5. Teacher Evaluation and Professional Conduct (Title 92 NAC, Chapters 24 & 25)
Summary:
Nebraska sets standards for teacher performance evaluations and disciplinary actions for professional misconduct.
Case Example:
A teacher in Grand Island is reported for repeated inappropriate behavior with students:
The district investigates, documents findings, and may recommend suspension or revocation of the teaching certificate.
The teacher has the right to appeal through a hearing process with the NDE.
If misconduct is confirmed, the certificate may be revoked permanently or for a fixed period.
Implication:
These regulations protect students and uphold professional standards in education.
6. School Finance and Funding (Title 92 NAC, Chapters 10 & 14)
Summary:
The NDE administers state aid and ensures compliance with funding formulas for K–12 education.
Case Example:
A district applies for state aid to cover new technology initiatives:
The NDE reviews enrollment, property valuations, and budget reports to calculate funding.
Funds are allocated according to statutory formulas and monitored to ensure appropriate use.
Misuse of funds can lead to repayment obligations or legal action.
Implication:
Proper administration of school finance ensures equitable educational opportunities across districts and prevents misuse of taxpayer resources.
7. Student Discipline and Rights (Title 92 NAC, Chapter 10)
Summary:
NDE provides guidelines for student discipline, including suspension, expulsion, and due process rights.
Case Example:
A high school student is caught bringing prohibited items to school:
The school conducts a disciplinary hearing following established procedures.
The student may receive suspension or expulsion depending on the severity of the violation.
Parents have the right to appeal the decision within the district and to the NDE if necessary.
Implication:
Rules protect both the safety of students and staff while ensuring due process is followed.
✅ Summary
Nebraska Administrative Code for Education sets rules in areas including:
Teacher certification – qualifications and renewal requirements
Student attendance – monitoring and addressing truancy
Special education – IEPs and accommodations
School accreditation – performance and compliance standards
Teacher evaluation and conduct – accountability and disciplinary actions
School finance – equitable funding and fiscal oversight
Student discipline – safety, fairness, and due process
Each case illustrates how the NDE enforces these rules to maintain educational quality, safety, and accountability.
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