History

Beginnings

The Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association was formed in the Spring of 1980 by a group of administrators from Class C and D school districts who saw the need for an organization dedicated to the interests of rural and small schools in Nebraska. It was felt there should be an organization developed which could speak specifically for the promotion of better education in rural Nebraska schools. The 2005 annual Spring Conference in Kearney will mark the 25th anniversary of the creation of NRCSA.

Growth

Despite a modest beginning, NRCSA now has membership from Class II, III & VI school districts, Educational Service Units and Colleges and Universities. Approximately 185 school districts with over 60,000 students from all parts of the state are represented through NRCSA memberships. A Business Associate membership was created in the 1988-89 school year and presently has over 80 businesses represented. Membership is open to any educational institution including school districts, colleges, and Educational Service Units. A non-voting individual membership is available for retired educators and other individuals committed to quality rural schools.

Purposes of NRCSA

1) To promote the general advancement of public education.


2) To provide a voice or direct influence for those specific concerns of rural schools which are not fulfilled directly by other organizations.


3) To provide, when necessary, a direct voice in legislative matters affecting schools.


4) To promote active involvement of rural community based schools in policies and programs of state and national educational organizations.


5) To serve as a liaison with the Nebraska Department of Education on issues concerning member schools.


6) To provide a forum for the discussion of contemporary issues.


7) To provide opportunities for recognizing and promoting quality rural education programs.


8) To recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership in promoting quality rural education in Nebraska.


9) To work cooperatively with Nebraska teacher training institutions in the promotion of quality teacher and administrator training programs for rural Nebraska schools.


10) To adopt other purposes the Executive Committee and/or members of the Association deem appropriate, always acting in compliance with the Nebraska Non-Profit Corporation Act and any other applicable laws.