This bill amends various sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to enhance educational reporting requirements and programs. It requires school districts to submit detailed reports on option enrollment applications, including the number of applications approved and rejected, with a specific focus on students with disabilities. The State Board of Education is tasked with compiling this data and reporting it to the Legislature annually starting September 1, 2024. 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.

Moreover, the legislation introduces the Nebraska Teacher Apprenticeship Program, which aims to recruit and train teachers through an apprenticeship model, establishing eligibility criteria and program completion requirements. It also includes grant opportunities for teachers who meet retention criteria and obtain endorsements in high-need areas. The bill further mandates that the Board of Educational Lands and Funds provide necessary information for the apportionment of the temporary school fund, requires reporting on reading deficiencies in early grades, and updates deadlines for property tax request submissions. Key changes include the insertion of new reporting requirements and the transition from grants to funding for the College Pathway Program Act, while repealing outdated sections to streamline educational funding and support.

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