Q: What is the deadline for telling probationary teachers in Nebraska that we are not renewing their contract?
A: April 15
Q: What is the deadline for telling tenured teachers in Nebraska that we are terminating their contracts?
A: April 15
Q: What is the deadline for issuing notice of reduction in force to teachers in Nebraska?
A: April 15
Q: Are you saying April 15 is an important deadline for Nebraska school districts?
A: April 15 is THE deadline by which school administrators must decide whether they want to proceed with the non-renewal or termination of a certificated employee's contract.
Q: Are teachers obligated by the April 15 deadline as well?
A: Yes. This is a mutual deadline between districts and their certificated staff. The Professional Practices Committee and the Nebraska Commissioner of Education have determined that teachers are contractually obligated for the following school year after April 15, unless:
The teacher has submitted a resignation prior to April 15, or
The board, through policy or provision in its negotiated agreement has agreed to release teachers through a later date.
Q: Doesn’t April 15 fall on Good Friday this year? What if we don’t have school?
A: Yes, April 15 falls on Good Friday this year. Practically, that means your deadline this year may be April 13 or April 14, depending on your school calendar. The fact that you do not have school on April 15 will not extend your deadline.
Q: What happens if I do nothing?
A: If you do nothing, all principal and teacher contracts automatically renew. Unless staff members receive notice on or before April 15 that the board will consider non-renewing, terminating, or amending their contracts, they stay on their current contract. Please note: this also applies to reductions in force.
Q: What happens if I miss the deadline?
A: The employment contract renews. The Nebraska Supreme Court has held that notice even one day late is insufficient notice under the law. Bentley v. School District No. 25 of Custer County, 255 Neb. 404 (1998),
Q: What about March 15th?
A: What about it?
Q: There’s something about March 15th…
A: Yes, but it’s not a deadline. Teachers cannot be required to sign a renewal agreement or contract before March 15th. So think of March 15 as a floor, and April 15 as a ceiling.
Q: What if I’m not sure about a staff member, or not sure how to issue a notice of non-renewal, termination or cancellation?
A: If you have any questions or reservations about a teacher's continued employment, we recommend that you consult with your favorite KSB attorney by calling 402-804-8000 or emailing us at ksb@ksbschoollaw.com.
Q: Which member of the KSB crew can eat the most saucy nugs in one sitting?
A:This is the subject of an unwise bet on Bobby’s part. A challenge will be completed soon. The smart money is on our law clerk, Aaron, with Ashley as a dark horse (sorry, Bobby and Jordan!)