OPS restructuring bill passes

The size and structure of the Omaha Public School (OPS) board will change under a bill passed by the Legislature Feb. 11.

LB125, introduced by Omaha Sen. Scott Lautenbaugh, reduces board membership from 12 to nine members. A special election — coinciding with the Omaha citywide election this spring —will fill all nine board member positions.

Going forward, the elections will be staggered. Board members from even-numbered districts will be up for election in Fall 2014; members from odd-numbered districts will be up for election in Fall 2016.

Senators passed the bill on a 44-4 vote.