Gov. Ricketts Approves Teacher's License Flexibility for Military Families

Press Release

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts approved revisions to Rule 21, allowing military spouses to receive a three-year teaching permit in Nebraska with a valid out-of-state license.

"These changes to Rule 21 are common-sense and will make it easier for teachers from military families to work in their field and serve Nebraska students," said Governor Ricketts. "My administration desires to make Nebraska the friendliest state for military families, and this rule change is another great way we can support them. Today's change will not only help support our military families, but it also connects Nebraska's students with dedicated, high-quality teachers who will support great education in our schools."

The three-year teaching permit will be available to military spouses who had previously taught at accredited schools in another state. The permit will expire on August 31st of the third year following its issuance and is non-renewable. Additionally, permit applicants must have evidence of their spouse's current service in the military or service within the past five years.

The State Board of Education approved the revisions to Rule 21 on Friday, February 2, 2018. It was then approved by the Attorney General and Governor Ricketts.

At a ceremony, Governor Ricketts was joined by Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) Commissioner Matthew Blomstedt and Shannon Manion, wife of 55th Wing Commander Col. Michael Manion of Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue.

GOVERNOR RICKETTS' RECORD OF SUPPORT FOR NEBRASKA'S MILITARY FAMILIES

Over the past few years, Governor Ricketts has placed a focus on supporting Nebraska's military families. Previous initiatives include:

Merging the Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs and the Division of Veterans' Homes.
Expanding the hiring preference in Nebraska to include spouses of service members.
Waiving the requirement for veterans to resubmit certification for a key property tax exemption if no change in medical condition has occurred.
Creating five additional Military Honor License Plates to recognize the service of members of the reserves of the armed forces.

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