Superintendent Press Release April 18, 2025
Dear Cedar Bluffs Families,
Last week, the Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) Board of Directors voted 5-3 to approve significant changes to eight-man football, which will take effect beginning with the 2026 season. The most notable update is an increase in the enrollment cap—from 47 to 55 boys (grades 9–11)—for schools to be eligible for eight-man football. This change is especially important for districts like Cedar Bluffs, where our current boys’ enrollment stands at 46, allowing us to remain eligible under the new guidelines.
In addition, the NSAA is restructuring eight-man football from two classes to three: D1, D2, and a new D3 class. These classes will better align schools by size and promote more balanced competition. The existing D6 (six-man football) will continue to serve Nebraska’s smallest schools. Each eight-man class will consist of approximately 35 schools. Schools will continue to play nine regular-season games, and playoff brackets will include 16 schools per class—resulting in 48 total playoff teams across three classes (compared to the current 64 teams in two classes). Starting in 2026, the NSAA will crown seven state football champions annually.
This is a positive step forward for small schools, and I appreciate the NSAA’s efforts to support equitable and competitive athletic opportunities for all Nebraska students.
The Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) is currently developing a new statewide strategic plan and is inviting public input to help guide the future of education in our state. Focus groups will be held across Nebraska from April 14 through May 7, offering community members a chance to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas on a variety of educational topics. The goal is to ensure the new strategic plan reflects the diverse perspectives of Nebraska’s students, parents, educators, and communities. This plan will ultimately guide the Nebraska State Board of Education and the NDE’s work over the next several years, shaping policies and priorities that impact all learners. I encourage everyone in our Cedar Bluffs community—staff, parents, and students—to consider participating in a focus group. Your voice matters, and this is an excellent opportunity to help shape the direction of education in Nebraska. Some of the dates have already passed and I apologize for that, but there are many others to attend if you are able. For more information on the focus group schedule, please visit:
https://www.education.ne.gov/commissioner/2026-strategic-plan/
Have a great weekend- Wildcat Pride!