Tekamah-Herman students darkened the doorways at the home of the Tigers in Tekamah on Tuesday as the district continues to see steady enrollment growth — 547 students this year, up 19 from last year and 29 from two years ago.
“Our staff is extremely excited for the start of the 2025–2026 school year,” Superintendent Bradley Kjar shared with the Independent. “We had a lot of exciting updates that happened in the facility over the summer including new casework and countertops in nearly every elementary classroom along with updating paint. It truly transformed the aesthetics of our elementary school. In general, I believe that staff and students are always excited to start the school year regardless of if they admit it or not.”
Both Lyons-Decatur Northeast and Oakland-Craig kick off the school year on Thursday. Superintendent Lindsey Beaudette of LDNE said the district is ready to embrace the new year.
“Our faculty and staff are thrilled to welcome students back for the 2025–26 school year,” Beaudette said. The LDNE District welcomes an enrollment of 312 in pre-K through 12th grade. “We anticipate a year full of learning, growth, and exciting new discoveries. Each year brings a renewed opportunity to start fresh; we are looking forward to what the future holds for each and every student at LDNE!”
Oakland-Craig has 414 students on the register for the 2025–26 school year. Superintendent Jess Bland said it has been a busy but productive week for faculty and staff, and they are ready for the first bell on Thursday.
“It’s been far too quiet in our halls, and we’re eager to hear them come alive again with the laughter, energy, and curiosity our students bring,” Bland said. “The staff have been working hard all summer to prepare for this school year and are ready, enthusiastic, and counting down the moments until students return for the year.”
The Independent reminds readers to be mindful of increased traffic as more than 1,200 public school students in Burt County return to their studies.
