Superintendent Press Release November 21, 2025
Dear Cedar Bluffs Families,
Just a friendly reminder that there will be no school next week from Wednesday, November 26th through Friday, November 28th.
Enjoy the long weekend, and may it be filled with rest, gratitude, and time with the people who mean the most to you!
As Nebraskans prepare for Thanksgiving, recent data from Consumer Reports shows that the average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner increased by 7.1% from 2024 to 2025, now averaging $61.14.
Some of the largest increases include:
· Canned jellied cranberries: up 46%
· Stuffing mix: up 14%
· Homestyle gravy: up 14%
A traditional 10-pound frozen turkey increased by 6.7%, averaging $24.00. The only item seeing a price decrease was pumpkin pie mix, which dropped 5.33%—possibly reflecting improved crop conditions or adjustments in consumer demand. The most recent Consumer Price Index report (from September) indicates that overall prices for food eaten at home increased 2.7% over the past year.
The state’s new School Finance Review Commission, created by LB 303, continues to analyze Nebraska’s school funding structure. At its October 31 meeting, members reviewed updated reports detailing recent funding changes and their statewide impact. A key finding: for the 2024 property tax year, Nebraskans are projected to see the smallest property tax increase in more than 20 years—2.5%. Property taxes and school funding remain closely connected, and recent legislation has shifted more of the overall funding responsibility from local property taxes to the state.
· In 2020–2021, 86% of Nebraska districts received less than 40% of their total revenue from the state.
· In 2024–2025, only 5% of districts fell into that category, reflecting a significant statewide shift toward greater state investment.
Maintaining this progress will require monitoring the Education Future Fund (EFF). Current projections show that the fund may decline more quickly than initially expected. Foundation aid increases and expanded special education reimbursements both draw from the EFF, and the fund’s main ongoing revenue source—investment income—is projected to decrease over the next several years. Sustaining current levels of state support may require additional transfers from the general fund, which could be challenging given projected budget constraints in 2026.
Have a great weekend! - Wildcat Pride