From Roger Breed Commissioner of Education.
"With many school districts making plans now for kindergarten registration for the coming 2012-2013 school year, I would like to clarify the options districts have related to kindergarten admissions under Nebraska law.
Section 79-214 requires that a child must be five years of age on or before July 31 to enroll in kindergarten for the 2012-13 school year.
Section 79-214 goes on to permit school boards to admit children if certain requirements are met. School districts, under the guidance of their school boards, are allowed to enroll a child who turns five after July 31 but on or before Oct. 15 if the parent requests admission and provides an affidavit that states:
1) The child attended kindergarten in another district during the current school year; OR
2) The family plans to relocate to a district that allows admission during the current school year; OR
3) The child has demonstrated his or her ability to do kindergarten level work through a recognized assessment procedure approved by the local school board.
This language is “permissive” so a school district is NOT required to admit a child who turns five after July 31."
In addition, Rule 11 does not allow students that turn 5 before August 1st to attend school-operated preschools. Exceptions can be granted for children who are identified with special needs and whose Individual Education Plan places the child in preschool as the most appropriate placement.
