January 26, 2025
Sen. Dave Murman, Chairperson
Sen. Margo Juarez
Sen. Jana Hughes, Vice Chairperson
Sen. Dan Lonowski
Sen. Danielle Conrad
Sen. Glen Meyer
Sen. Megan Hunt
Sen. Rita Sanders
The Lincoln Public Schools supports LB282 proposed by Senator Prokop, a bill which would assist K-12 Nebraska classroom teachers in submitting for up to $300 annual reimbursement on classroom supplies purchases paid for by said teacher. Under LB282, the submission for reimbursement procedure and forms would be determined by the State Department of Education, which would also develop a policy providing guidance and clarification on the types of supplies eligible for reimbursement.
Akin to the proposed practice in LB282, the Lincoln Public Schools already provides an annual $350 classroom supplies reimbursement to classroom teachers, and while this may seem like a nominal amount, it is one element in affirming the varied supplies needs classroom teachers may purchase to support their students and enhance student learning. Teachers make myriad decisions to enhance their classroom environment, and reimbursing a portion of these supplies costs which they may otherwise incur only as an out of pocket expense helps foster a positive school culture and affirms the dedication and tremendous work ethic of classroom teachers.
In conclusion, we lift up LB282 as an example of best practice to support the educator workforce and recognize another of the many ways classroom teachers make contributions to creating an excellent classroom environment. The Lincoln Public Schools commends Senator Prokop and co-signer Senator Conrad for supporting this important proposal, and we urge the Education Committee to advance this important measure of support to reimburse a portion of teachers’ classroom supplies costs annually. We believe LB282 is demonstrative of best practice in supporting our classroom teachers, and merits strong consideration for advancement by the Education Committee.
Sincerely,
Dr. John Skretta
Interim Superintendent
Lincoln Public Schools
