BLAIR, NEBRASKA (2025 August 22, Friday)
Don Harrold, Writer / Editor
editor@blairtoday.com – Facebook
I recently wrote a story about the dual issue of drop-offs and breakfasts at Arbor Park. As with any story, I contacted folks in town who can help. For the Arbor Park story, I sent an email to, among others, school board members.
This morning, I got an email from Nate Larsen. Here is that email:
Hello Don,
Thanks for reaching out about this. I think you are right, the first week always brings up challenges for sure. At Arbor Park, you are right, there is a 20 minute time frame, as the drop off time is 7:45 and the bell rings at 8:05. I spoke with the Arbor Park Administration, and was assured that under no circumstances would any of their students be turned away from breakfast or be asked to leave their meal unfinished if the bell rings.
I would ask parents to be patient with the drop off and pick up lines in the first couple weeks of school. I know from experience with four kids that were in those lines for years, that they become more efficient and faster very quickly once the kids have a few more school days under their belts.
Anyway, I would also ask that if there are still concerns, for parents to reach out with any concerns to the administration at Arbor. I appreciate you reaching out on this, and look forward to talking again soon.
-Nate
The article was posted a couple days ago, so you may wonder why highlighted this from Nate, today. Well, it’s because of something that has shifted in Blair, and parents need to know.
The school board has done a great job of being more open, transparent, and willing to engage in public dialogue over the last few years. Nate’s email is just one of many I received, and to be honest, five years ago, it was not this way. It is clear to me that the Blair School Board members are more willing to hear from you – and answer questions – than ever before.
Consider this: The article was researched, written, and published two days ago, and yet Nate felt the issue was important enough to reach out today – when he did not have to.
There is a special meeting coming on Monday (to discuss the proposed 6% property tax increase). I deeply and sincerely hope you will let your voice be heard about this issue with them. In the past I would have been less optimistic about your chance of being heard. Now, though, I would be stunned if board members didn’t do whatever they could to hear you and try to find ways to incorporate the ideas of parents into whatever policies are approved.
If you have a minute, drop an email to board members and encourage them to continue this path of open communication. It’s what will make Blair schools the best for all our kids.
