State Officials says Fall Semester Protocol may vary by Region

LINCOLN - State education officials are continuing to explore what the fall semester may look like, and aren't ruling out that school procedures may vary from county-to-county come August.

Nebraska Commission of Education Matt Blomstedt spoke at Gov. Pete Ricketts' daily briefing on Thursday, saying that while the governor and state officials will be in communication for best practice, how schools proceed in the fall may be ultimately decided on by the local health officials that serves each district.

"As we go into the summer there is this chance to look at the processes and procedures and try to get to a point where those decision can be made at a local level based on the conditions that are taking place at that local level in that moment."

In addition, Blomstedt was optimistic that some school districts may not have to alter their plans too dramatically, but admitted it is too early to say for sure.

"I do think there will be areas of the state that are able to keep pretty much their regular calendar in tact, and I think that's what's folks are interested in. But we are also asking schools to be very thoughtful about digital and remote learning as we continue down that path."

The state has rolled out a new website resource, www.LaunchNE.com where officials will communicate, pool information, and gather data as they continue to explore further education options moving forward.