SIDNEY -- Sidney has reason to celebrate with the Lady Raiders heading to State.

The No. 3 Lady Raiders (24-2) will play  No. 6 Beatrice (17-4) at 6:45 p.m. MST Thursday in Lincoln. 

The Sidney Public Schools will not be in session Thursday.  In a press release issued by Sidney Schools Superintendent Jay Ehler February 27, Ehler said high school teachers are prepared for a remote learning day Thursday. Students will be given assignments that will begin 4th quarter grades. 

Grades pre-kindergarten through eighth will not have a remote learning day. Friday, March 3, is already a teacher work day. Teachers will still use this day if they are not going to Lincoln.

Ehler said the administration always receives feedback in favor of and against closing school for state athletic events. He said the administration sees the complete learning experience as needing to take advantage of a variety of opportunities. 

"This is why the district does things like support state playoff teams, plan summer trips to New York or Europe, invite guest speakers and take field trips," he said. 

Ehler added that with the number of students involved in team sports playoff events (the team, cheerleaders, dance team, band and supporting fans), it becomes difficult to have a productive educational day.

"Academics are, and always will be, the top priority of Sidney Public Schools. However, we strive to focus on the total learning experience as well," he said.