STATE OF NEBRASKA
Proclamation

WHEREAS, Nebraska students are returning to their classrooms this month and celebrating the launch of the 2026-2027 school year; and

WHEREAS, Classrooms provide the proper environment for fostering learning, engagement and healthy curiosity; and it is important that state and local leaders establish appropriate expectations for learning achievement as well as safe, supportive learning environments; and

WHEREAS, A critical component of academic success involves consistent classroom attendance. When students miss more than 10% of instructional time, they are considered chronically absent, which has been found to lead to reduced reading and math scores and higher dropout rates; and

WHEREAS, The most recent data indicates that more than 65,000 students, or 21% of Nebraska's student population, was chronically absent in 2024-2025; and

WHEREAS, Excessive screen time is also harmful to children and adolescents, as noted by the U.S. Surgeon General, and has become a significant public health concern; and

WHEREAS, Minimizing distractions leads to a more productive learning environment. Removing cell phones and limiting unnecessary screen time in the classroom will help students to be more engaged; and

WHEREAS, Research shows that screen use in bed is associated with impaired sleep, including delayed sleep onset, shortened sleep duration and suppression of melatonin production; and

WHEREAS, Food is fuel. Students who don't have adequate nutrition can also struggle to focus and achieve in academic settings. It's important that they and their families have access to nutritious meals; and

WHEREAS, Nebraska school districts provide free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch through the National School Lunch Program. Parents and school administrators should work together to ensure all students who qualify receive these meals; and

WHEREAS, Ensuring proper classroom behavior is another component to providing a safe and secure learning environment. Treating teachers, school staff, administrators and fellow classmates with respect fosters a productive and positive educational experience for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jim Pillen, Governor of the State of Nebraska, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM the month of August 2026 as

BACK TO SCHOOL MONTH

in Nebraska, and I encourage all Nebraskans to support our students, teachers, school staff and families as we begin another successful school year by promoting attendance, minimizing distractions, and creating safe, respectful learning environments where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and cause the Great Seal of the State of Nebraska to be affixed this thirteenth day of August, in the year of our Lord Two Thousand Twenty-six.

(Signature)

Jim Pillen, Governor
State of Nebraska

Attest:

(Signature)

Robert Evnen, Secretary of State
State of Nebraska