(KLZA)-- Falls City Public Schools Superintendent Tim Heckenlively reported to the District 56 Board Monday evening that he is participating on a committee for rural school superintendents to create a guidance document for schools re-opening in the fall of 2020.

The committee is  working in coordination with the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association.

Schools are planning to reopen the doors for students and staff August 13.  It is  understood this is a guideline only and not a steadfast requirement as all rural schools will need to make decisions locally as permitted, based on community health situations at the time and addressing Centers for Disease Control school opening guidance.  

The Nebraska Department of Education is also sharing health guidance on summer programming and beyond through a program titled “Launch Nebraska.”  The priority remains the safety and well-being of all students, educators, staff and community members. 

District 56 students are currently scheduled to return to classes for the 2020-21 school year on August 14.