Board adopts NDE model behavioral intervention policy amid teacher certification debate

The April 2025 State Board of Education meeting, held on April 1, focused on several key agenda items, including the approval of a new behavioral intervention policy and discussions surrounding teacher certification waivers for early childhood education.

The meeting commenced with board member Lisa expressing appreciation for the efforts made by the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) in addressing various suggestions from board members. She commended the department for ensuring that local school districts maintain control over educational matters.

Following this, the board moved to a vote on the NDE model behavioral intervention policy. The motion was unanimously approved, with all eight board members voting in favor, indicating strong support for the new policy aimed at guiding behavioral interventions in schools.

The discussion then shifted to agenda items 7.3 g and 7.3 h, which involved rule 11 waivers related to the shortage of certified teachers for early childhood education, specifically for children from birth to age three. Board member Jones raised concerns about the frequent need for these waivers, arguing that requiring certification for teachers in this age group may not be necessary. He emphasized the importance of various traits in caregivers that are not necessarily linked to formal teacher certification.

In response, board member Maggie, chair of the rules and regulations committee, noted that the committee had previously discussed this issue and anticipated bringing proposed revisions to rule 11 in June 2025. This indicates ongoing efforts to address the challenges posed by the shortage of certified teachers in early childhood education.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore the implications of teacher certification requirements and the potential for rule revisions to better serve the needs of young children in Nebraska. The board's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing educational challenges and ensuring effective policies are in place for the state's youngest learners.