Board approves adding math to list of subjects for retiree rehiring, will seek waiver to exceed 140‑day limit

The Lincoln County Board of Education voted Tuesday to revise its rehired‑retiree policy to add math to the list of subject areas where retired teachers may be used and to allow the district to file a waiver with the state department to extend employment beyond the 140‑day limit. The vote took place during the regular board meeting in Hamlin.

The change lets the district request a waiver from the state to keep a qualified retiree in place for an entire school year; presenters told the board a retiree otherwise is limited to 140 workdays. The board was also told any rehired retiree must hold certification in the subject area they will teach.

The nut graf: board members were asked to approve an annual policy update that the district must renew each year to retain the option of rehiring retirees in core instruction areas; the revision adds math to the previously listed subjects.

A motion to approve the revised policy was made and seconded; the motion passed unanimously, 5–0. Board members and staff emphasized the policy is intended to address certification gaps and staffing shortages by allowing the district to employ certified retirees when needed and, after board approval, to pursue the formal waiver process with the state department.

Board discussion clarified that the retiree must be certified in the assignment area and that the waiver — once approved by the department — would permit a retiree to remain for the full year rather than being limited to 140 days. The board also noted the policy is reviewed annually as required.

No budget action or specific retiree hires were announced at the meeting; the revision authorizes the district to pursue the waiver and use certified retirees in math if recruitment or certification shortfalls require it.