This legislative bill amends various sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to improve educational reporting requirements and programs. It mandates that school districts provide detailed reports on option enrollment applications, including the number of applications approved and rejected, with a focus on reasons for rejection for students with disabilities. The Commissioner of Education is required to compile this data annually for the Legislature. Additionally, the bill updates provisions related to alternative schools and educational programs for expelled students, ensuring that districts have appropriate options and follow specific procedures prior to expulsion.

The bill also introduces the Nebraska Teacher Apprenticeship Program, which aims to increase the number of teachers through a structured apprenticeship model, requiring participants to complete a one-year apprenticeship and pass designated examinations. It establishes grant opportunities for teachers based on their years of service and endorsements in high-need areas, providing financial incentives for retention. Furthermore, the bill modifies the timeline for school districts to submit property tax request documents and establishes the College Pathway Program Act to support underrepresented and low-income students in graduating high school and pursuing postsecondary education. The State Department of Education is tasked with submitting an annual report on the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 79-239, 79-266, 79-308, 79-528, 79-816, 79-1035, 79-3407, 79-3703, 79-3704