The Falls City Public Schools Board of Education held the regular board meeting on Monday, April 14, 2025. Here are the highlights of the meeting.

Falls City Middle School Launches Robotics Program with FIRST LEGO League - Falls City Middle School wrapped up their Robotics program with a presentation to the school board on Monday, April 14th. This school year was the inaugural launch of the new Robotics program at Falls City Middle School. Under the guidance of Robotics Director Jami Ankrom and classroom instructor Terri Hogue, the program was introduced to 8th grade Algebra and Pre-Algebra students as part of an effort to enhance STEM learning and innovation.

FIRST LEGO League introduces youth to science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on learning and international competition. Along the way, students gain critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills while engaging in the program’s core values: discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun.

The success of this new initiative has been made possible through outstanding community support. The local Elks Club generously funded the purchase of two robotics kits and team registration fees. Additionally, a Delta Kappa Gamma grant supports the program and the Falls City High School carpentry class, led by Mr. Wertenberger, constructed custom gaming tables. The Robotics class also hosted fundraisers, including a bake sale and concession stand at local events to help cover travel and competition costs.

Falls City’s Robotics teams competed in the state tournament March 21-22 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. The Tigers 1 team received the State Community Spirit Award for their community involvement and awareness.

New Staff for 2025-2026 School Year - Falls City Public Schools is pleased to welcome Tom Sextro, High School mathematics teacher, Natalie Keller, 3rd grade teacher, Rachel Wertenberger, 2nd grade teacher, and Payton Adams, grounds supervisor. We are excited to have these talented professionals join our team and support our students.

The district is actively seeking qualified applicants for the positions of Elementary/Middle School Art, Middle School Special Education, School Psychologist, and Special Education Paraeducators.

Facility Updates Underway at FCPS - The constructing of a new men’s and women’s restroom facility at the stadium is underway with contractors on-site. Additionally, the new equipment storage building construction has been completed at the high school site. The other approved improvements to the district’s facility infrastructure are scheduled to begin at the conclusion of the school year.

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) 6110 Certified Staff Employment / Terms/Contract; 2) 6111Certified Staff Duties/Teachers; 3) 6113 Certified Staff Professional Growth/Teachers; 4) 6114 Professional Leave; 5) 6115 Reduction in Force.

2.     Approved Employment Contracts: 1) Tom Sextro, High School Mathematics Teacher; 2) Natalie Keller, 3rd grade teacher; 3) Rachel Wertenberger, 2nd grade teacher.

3.     Approved School Meal Prices for 2025-2026 to include a $0.25 increase per lunch.

4.     Authorized the 12-month CD investment of Special Building Funds.

5.     Approved 2025-2026 Activity Admission Fees as proposed.

6.     Approved Classified Employee Wages for 2025-2026.

The next regular monthly Board of Education meeting is scheduled for May 12, 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.