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Bill would let substitutes complete required interpersonal training online to ease shortages
Summary
LB 893 would direct the Department of Education to offer an online interpersonal relations course for substitute teachers, reducing time and cost barriers. Rural superintendents and school leaders backed the idea; some senators sought clarity on scope and whether the course should include classroom management or an in‑person interview.
Sen. Jared Storm introduced LB 893 to permit the Nebraska Department of Education to provide an alternative online interpersonal relations course and assessment for substitute‑teacher certification. The bill would allow the department to charge a fee to recover development and maintenance costs.
Proponents — including school superintendents and a State Board member — said an online option would expand the pool of qualified substitutes, particularly in rural districts that lack nearby college courses. "LB 893 modernizes expectations while maintaining accountability through an assessment," said Bret Schroeder, superintendent of Schuyler Community Schools, who testified that an accessible online course would help keep classrooms staffed and avoid disruption.
Senators asked whether the online course would be acceptable for substitutes only or if it could be used by full‑time candidates; Storm said the bill targets the substitute pool and that full certification requirements would remain in place. Lawmakers also discussed possible classroom‑management content and whether a brief in‑person verification step should be required to confirm practical readiness.
The committee received written support from the Department of Education and multiple rural districts. No vote was taken at the hearing; sponsors said they expect to work with the department to design curriculum and a cost‑recovery mechanism.
