Lincoln Public Schools holds public hearing on student-fee waiver increase for cheer and dance; board moves item to second reading

The Lincoln Board of Education opened a public hearing Tuesday on a single proposed change to Policy 55.20 (student fees): a recommendation to raise the maximum fee waiver for cheer and dance from $750 to $900 for the 2025–26 school year.

The hearing was held under the Nebraska Public Elementary and Students Fee Authorization Act and related state law. Mike (district staff) reported that LPS granted approximately $175,000 in fee waivers during the 2023–24 school year, with a six‑year average near $163,000; more than 86% of student fees are charged at the high‑school level, primarily athletics, band, cheer and vocal music. He told the board that the district’s review found substantial cost increases for basic uniform items—some as high as 203%—and that the proposed $900 cap would better align the waiver with current costs.

No members of the public submitted blue cards to speak; the board closed the public hearing after the staff report. Board members discussed whether to approve the change at first reading. At agenda review, staff recommended carrying the amendment to a second reading; the board agreed to place the revised appendix 1 on the second reading agenda.

The policy change remains under consideration and was not adopted at Tuesday’s meeting. The staff report and the proposed appendix listing the single requested change are attached to agenda item 10.1.0.1 for public review.