Southern Nebraska Register
Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska
Nebraska families can now express interest in applying for an opportunity scholarship through Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska (OSN), a statewide scholarship granting organization.
OSN has launched its website, www.nebraskaopportunity.org, where parents can fill out an eligibility survey and sign up to receive news and updates about the application process.
OSN will award scholarships to eligible students and families in 2024 in accordance with the Opportunity Scholarships Act. The Opportunity Scholarships Act, LB753, was passed earlier this year by a supermajority of Nebraska state lawmakers and signed into law by Governor Jim Pillen. Scholarships are funded by tax credit contributions, which taxpayers can apply for beginning in January 2024.
OSN is 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a scholarship granting organization approved by the Nebraska Department of Revenue. OSN’s Board of Directors represents a statewide coalition of education freedom supporters and is co-chaired by Rick Bettger of Omaha and Kim Schroll of North Platte.
“Nebraska kids, especially those from lower-income families, need more educational options and hope for the future,” Bettger said. “I have personally seen many young lives changed because of a scholarship to a school that fits that child best. That’s our goal at Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska – to empower parents to choose the best school for their children.”
Schroll agreed.
“Income level and zip code should not limit a child’s educational potential,” she said. “Many families in Nebraska are asking for more options but don’t think they can afford them. Through Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska, we will serve families across the state from Omaha to Scottsbluff and everywhere in between.”
Jeremy Ekeler, formerly of the Nebraska Catholic Conference, is now executive director for Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska.
“This transformational scholarship program is common sense, and education freedom is quickly becoming the standard across the country,” he said. “The reason is simple: every child learns differently. At OSN, we are excited to engage families and accompany them through the scholarship application process.”
To learn more about Opportunity Scholarships of Nebraska, visit the site at www.nebraskaopportunity.org.
