Kevin Witte, Kearney High School Social Studies teacher, (KPS, Courtesy)
KEARNEY — Kearney High School Social Studies teacher Kevin Witte has been selected as the Nebraska 3rd Congressional District recipient of the prestigious Bertolas, Gildersleeve, Stoddard, Stone Award, presented annually by the Geographic Educators of Nebraska (GEON).
This distinguished award honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to advancing geography education across the state. Established in 2008, the award commemorates the legacy of three influential University of Nebraska professors—Chuck Gildersleeve (UNO), Bob Stoddard (UNL), and Marv Stone (UNK)—whose leadership in the early 1990s helped form GEON and strengthen geography education statewide, and Wayne State College professor—Randy Bertolas, who continues this mission today.
Each year, GEON recognizes three educators—one from each Congressional district—whose work reflects outstanding dedication to geographic literacy, curriculum development, and the promotion of geographic understanding among K–16 learners.
Mr. Witte received his award during a special ceremony held at the National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE) National Conference in Omaha in October. This year, rather than presenting the award at the annual Nebraska State Council for the Social Studies Conference, GEON hosted the NCGE conference from October 16–19, providing an expanded platform to celebrate geography education leaders such as Witte.
“Kevin is a passionate educator who brings the world to his students every day,” said Kearney High School Principal, Jeff Ganz. “He helps students think critically, understand global connections, and appreciate how geography shapes the world around them. This award is a well-deserved recognition of his commitment to sustained excellence.”
Superintendent Dr. Jason Mundorf also praised Witte’s accomplishment. “We are incredibly proud of Kevin for earning this statewide honor,” Mundorf said. “His dedication to high-quality instruction and his ability to connect students with real-world learning exemplify what makes Kearney Public Schools exceptional. This recognition reflects not only his talent but his unwavering commitment to student success.”
Kevin Witte has been a respected member of the KHS faculty, known for his engaging teaching style, leadership in social studies education, and dedication to helping students develop a deeper understanding of the world.
Kearney Public Schools celebrates this outstanding achievement and congratulates Mr. Witte on his meaningful contributions to the field of geography education in Nebraska.
