Jason Mundorf
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools is proud to announce that Superintendent Jason Mundorf has been selected as the 2025 Region IV Superintendent of the Year by the Nebraska Association of School Administrators (NASA).
The award is determined annually through a nomination and selection process of the region’s administrative membership. This prestigious award honors Mundorf’s innovative leadership, dedication to student success, and commitment to fostering strong connections between schools and the community.
Mundorf will now represent Region IV as one of only five superintendents statewide competing for the Nebraska Superintendent of the Year title. The winner will go on to represent Nebraska at the national level.
“This recognition reflects the collective work of our dedicated staff, supportive Board of Education, and the amazing students and families we serve at Kearney Public Schools,” said Mundorf. “Nothing is accomplished in Kearney Public Schools without the collective excellence, teamwork, and talent we enjoy in Kearney. It is an incredible honor to be nominated and selected by my collegial peers.”
Visionary Leadership in Action
Mundorf’s leadership is characterized by bold innovation paired with a deep commitment to building strong relationships. Board member, Drew Blessing, highlighted this combination as key to his success:
“Jason’s leadership is student-centered, innovative, and forward-thinking. His vision and dedication have strengthened our schools and positioned KPS for long-term success.”
One of Mundorf’s hallmark achievements is the development of a teacher pipeline partnership with the University of Nebraska at Kearney and the UNK College of Education called Kearney Teachers of Tomorrow. The scholarship is intended to cover the recipient’s “full cost of attendance” during their undergraduate education studies at UNK while also guaranteeing them part-time jobs with KPS during college. KPS additionally guarantees a teaching position to the recipients after graduation. This creative program directly addresses Nebraska’s growing teacher shortage while fostering a homegrown, community-connected workforce.
“Jason’s ability to build partnerships, from UNK to community organizations, has been key to KPS’ success,” said Amanda Smallcomb, Board Member. “He understands that schools don’t succeed alone – it takes a community working together.”
Creating Pathways for Student Success
Mundorf’s leadership has also brought programs like Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) to the Hanny Arram Center for Success. This vital program ensures students facing challenges have access to the mentorship, resources, and career pathways they need to thrive after high school.
“The forward thinking, collaborative efforts that Jason has made with the community of Kearney have created some really neat opportunities for our KPS students,” said Niki Deeds, KPS Board member.
Another impactful addition under Mundorf’s leadership is the creation of JROTC at Kearney High School, offering students opportunities to develop leadership, discipline, and civic responsibility. This program will soon have a permanent home in The PAW – KHS Performance and Activity Wing, a new space designed for JROTC, girls’ wrestling, band, cheerleaders, Dance Cats, and academic events requiring the use of larger facilities.
“Jason truly listens to staff, students, and families, and that collaborative approach is why KPS continues to thrive under his leadership,” said Paul Hazard, KPS Board member. “His ability to understand our community’s needs and then create programs that directly address those needs is what makes his leadership so impactful.”
Supporting Every Student
One of Mundorf’s most transformative projects currently underway is the creation of a new K-5 Alternative School, designed to meet the needs of students requiring specialized educational programming and support.
“Jason leads with integrity, creativity, and heart,” said Amy Barth, Board Member. “His focus is always on what’s best for students — all students — and ensuring every child in Kearney Public Schools has the opportunity to thrive.”
Beyond his visionary projects, Mundorf also values personal connections. Each school year, he spends a full day in the Fall and a full day in the Spring at every KPS school, offering staff dedicated time for sharing ideas and problem-solving. This practice allows him to understand the unique challenges and opportunities at each building, ensuring district leadership remains closely aligned with the day-to-day experiences of staff and students.
“Jason has a grand vision for the future of Kearney Public Schools. He is constantly working to provide programming that effectively assists students at all levels and of all abilities,” said John Icenogle, Board President. “He’s not just leading from the office — he’s actively engaging with students, teachers, and families to understand their needs firsthand and to develop strategies to make our classrooms the most effective and productive.”
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his time as Superintendent, Mundorf said, “I firmly believe that strong schools are built through relationships, innovation, and a shared vision for excellence. I’m fortunate to work in a community that values education and is willing to invest in bold initiatives that shape our students’ futures.”
As Kearney Public Schools continues to innovatively grow under his leadership, Mundorf’s recognition as Region IV Superintendent of the Year stands as a testament to his commitment to excellence, his passion for students, and his unwavering belief in the power of public education.
