The Falls City Public Schools Board of Education held the regular board meeting on Monday, February 10, 2025. Here are the highlights of the meeting.

Falls City Public Schools Approves Purchase of New 2027 IC Bus for Transportation Needs -  The Falls City Public Schools Board of Education has approved the purchase of a new 2027 International Bus, NextGen CE model for $134,900. This purchase is part of the district's ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade its transportation fleet. The decision to purchase the new bus came after a thorough review of bids from several manufacturers, including Blue Bird, and Thomas. After evaluating the options, the board selected the International bid, which came in as the lowest at $134,900.

The new International bus offers several key features that were attractive to the district, including improved visibility, additional grab rails for student safety, and an integrated air conditioning system. Additionally, International was able to secure a 2026 delivery slot for the district, which was important given the timeline for the district's grant funding. The improved safety features and efficiency of the International model will be a great asset as we continue to provide reliable transportation for our students. The purchase is being funded in part by a $28,500 Nebraska Dept. of Environment and Energy Clean Diesel Rebate Program. The board also discussed the potential impact of not purchasing a new bus, noting that the current bus routes are running smoothly, but there may be challenges in the future if the older buses require significant repairs.

Legislative Update – The district is closely monitoring several education-related bills currently being considered in the state legislature. Of particular concern is a bill sponsored by Senator Conrad that aims to eliminate all surveillance in schools, including security cameras, student electronic passes, and vape detectors. This raises safety concerns for the district. Another bill, backed by Governor Pillen, would prohibit cell phone use in schools, including during extracurricular activities - an issue that could prove challenging to enforce. The district is also tracking a proposal to repeal the law prohibiting suspension of students in kindergarten through 2nd grade, as well as a potential $90 per student increase in state aid, which could provide a $68,000 boost to Fall City's budget. However, the most significant legislative issue surrounds the state's contribution to the teacher retirement fund. Currently, the state pays 2% annually, but a new bill seeks to reduce the contribution, which could destabilize the retirement plan and potentially require increased contributions from school employees.

Falls City Public Schools Welcomes New Staff for 2025-2026 School Year - FCPS is pleased to announce the addition of several new staff members for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. Maggie Suther has been hired as the new Middle School Counselor. Suther brings valuable experience and expertise that will benefit the district's middle school students. Kaitlin King has joined the team as an Elementary Special Education Teacher. King's dedication to supporting students with special needs will be a valuable asset to the elementary school. The district has also welcomed Madison Reiman as the new Sixpence Home Visiting Specialist. Reiman's role will focus on providing in-home support and resources to families within the district. In addition to these new hires.

Falls City Public Schools is actively seeking qualified applicants for several other positions, including High School Spanish, High School Math, High School/Middle School Special Education, Elementary/Middle School Art, School Psychologist and Grounds Supervisor.

The District 56 Board of Education acted on several items before concluding the regular meeting.

1.     Approved the Final Readings on Policy Reviews and Revisions: 1) 5321 School Vehicles; 2) 5322 Transportation of Students by School Employees; 3) 5330 Reimbursement and Miscellaneous Expenditures; 4) 5335 Tuition Reimbursement for College Coursework or Advanced Degrees; 5) 5410 Collection of Debt: 

2.     Approved the Resignations: Mike Kafer, Maintenance Supervisor – 45 years with FCPS, Kim Oliver, Elementary Teacher, 41 years with FCPS, Emma Shubert, Elementary Special Education Teacher, 1 year with FCPS.

3.     Approved Employment Contracts: Maggie Suther, Middle School Counselor, Kaitlyn King, Elementary Special Education Teacher.

4.     Approved the School Calendar 2025-2026.

5.     Approved the purchase of a 2027 International Bus, NextGen CE model for $134,900.

The next regular monthly Board of Education meeting is scheduled for March 10, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. in the Central Office in Falls City Middle School. Regular and special meeting agendas are kept in the Office of the Superintendent, Tim Heckenlively.

Falls City Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, citizenship status or economic status in its programs, activities and employment.