Superintendent Press Release April 11, 2025
Dear Cedar Bluffs Families,
As we approach the end of the school year, it’s also been an active season in Nebraska’s Unicameral. Lawmakers are currently debating a range of issues that could impact public education—from school funding and property tax reform to proposed changes in school choice policies and teacher certification pathways. While nothing is finalized yet, we’re closely monitoring these developments to understand how they may affect our district in the coming months. As always, we remain committed to advocating for policies that support student success, strengthen our schools, and ensure every child in Nebraska has access to a high-quality education.
One of the most discussed education-related proposals in Nebraska this spring is Legislative Bill 140 (LB140), introduced by Senator Rita Sanders at the request of Governor Jim Pillen. The bill would require all public school districts in the state to adopt clear policies restricting student cell phone use during the school day.
Governor Pillen has strongly advocated for the bill, pointing to mounting evidence that excessive smartphone use is contributing to rising levels of anxiety, distraction, and social disconnection among young people. During his testimony before the Education Committee, Pillen referenced the research of social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, particularly his recent book The Anxious Generation. In the book, Haidt explores how the rapid rise in youth mental health issues corresponds with a decline in real-world play and face-to-face interaction, replaced by a surge in screen time and social media. He argues that children’s constant access to devices—often starting as early as age ten—has led to a rewired childhood, increasing rates of anxiety and depression, and a diminishing ability to concentrate in school settings.
LB140 aims to counter this trend by creating school environments where students are more present, engaged, and less susceptible to the stress and fragmentation caused by constant digital notifications. While exceptions would be made for educational use, emergencies, and health needs, the heart of the bill lies in helping students unplug—at least during school hours. As debate over the bill continues, Nebraska joins a growing number of states grappling with how to balance the benefits of technology in education with its unintended consequences for student well-being.
It’s hard to believe it’s already April! This time of year always seems to fly by, and this spring is no exception. With only 23 days of school left, we’re rapidly approaching the finish line—and then we’ll roll right into summer school, which begins June 2nd. In the midst of Track and Golf seasons, we’re also gearing up for a flurry of end-of-year events that celebrate the hard work and talents of our students:
· April 28: Academic Night
· April 29: Fine Arts Night
· May 2: Athletic Banquet
· May 5: Spring Concert for Grades 5–12
· May 7: Elementary Track Day & Meet-and-Greet with our new elementary principal
· May 9: Elementary Talent Show
· May 10: Graduation
· May 16: Final Day of School
It’s a busy but exciting time, and we look forward to seeing our school community come together to support and celebrate our students. We are so incredibly proud of our students and staff for all they’ve accomplished this year.
Have a great weekend- Wildcat Pride!