This "Operational Issues" document is intended to accompany the State Board of Education?s policy recommendations for providing equitable opportunities for all Nebraska students to receive an essential education. The Essential Education Policy will serve as the foundation document to guide immediate and long-range planning to achieve the equitable educational opportunities. The Essential Education Policy has been under discussion throughout the 2004 calendar year. During that time, input from Nebraska educators and others has resulted in identifying some significant issues that should be considered in operationalizing the essential education recommendations in all Nebraska schools. These issues represent challenges that may impact either many districts statewide or selected districts in unique circumstances due to student demographics, staff shortages, fiscal constraints, or other limitations. The following policy recommendations are discussed in this document: (1) World Languages; (2) Career and Technical Education; (3) Visual and Performing Arts; (4) Social Studies/History; (5) Non-endorsed teachers; (6) Teacher planning time; (7) Staff development time; and (8) Kindergarten.