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Board opposes amendment that would bar superintendents from outside education work; changes LB682 stance
Summary
The board's legislative committee recommended and the board voted to change its position on LB682 to opposition after an amendment that would prohibit superintendents from receiving employment income outside their district was added.
The Omaha Public Schools Board of Education voted April 7 to change its position on state bill LB682 to opposition after the legislative committee reported an amendment that would severely restrict outside employment for school superintendents.
Megan, the board's counsel, briefed the board on the amendment (AM566) that was inserted into LB682. Counsel summarized the amendment: "Basically it prohibits any contract for employment of the superintendent ... it prohibits the superintendent from receiving employment income other than such individual's employment income from the school district for employment," and would bar activities such as teaching an adjunct class at a university and compensation tied to foundations or some board- or commission-related work, the counsel said.
The committee recommended opposition because the amendment raises significant constitutional concerns and would limit employment activities historically permitted or authorized by boards. Board members asked clarifying questions, including whether a superintendent could teach a class at a university; counsel answered that the amendment would prohibit that activity.
The board approved the legislative committee's recommendation to change its position on LB682 from "monitor with research" to "opposition." The motion passed on a roll-call vote recorded as seven ayes.
Why it matters: if enacted in the form described by the amendment, the bill would limit superintendents' outside income from education-related employment and could limit customary agreements between districts and their superintendents. Counsel warned of constitutional issues and recommended opposition as a committee position.
What happens next: the board will monitor developments in the legislature and watch for additional amendments or actions affecting education-related language.
Note: the board's position change applies to the amended language described on the record; the board did not adopt a broader policy beyond this legislative recommendation.
