Sunrise Middle School Principal Mark Johnson speaks during a ribbon cutting event in October 2025, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools (KPS) has announced that Mark Johnson, principal of Sunrise Middle School, will retire at the conclusion of the current school year, marking the end of a distinguished career in education spanning nearly three decades.
Johnson joined Kearney Public Schools in 1995 and has served students, families, and staff in a variety of leadership and teaching roles throughout the district. His career includes time as a teacher at Windy Hills Elementary (1995–2004), principal at Glenwood Elementary (2004–2006), principal at Bryant Elementary for 13 years (2006–2021), and most recently as principal of Sunrise Middle School, a position he assumed in 2021.
“Mark Johnson has dedicated his entire professional life to serving Kearney Public Schools’ students and providing high-quality educational experiences,” said Superintendent Dr. Jason Mundorf. “His leadership, vision, energy, positivity, and unwavering commitment to students’ academic and behavioral growth have left a lasting impact on our district. Mark also cared deeply for his staff and worked hard to support them in both good and challenging times. He has been a leader both in our district but also across our region and throughout the state. We are grateful for his many years of service to Kearney Public Schools, and we are appreciative of the legacy he leaves behind.”
During his tenure, Johnson was widely respected for fostering positive school culture, building strong relationships, and inspiring both students and staff. He is nationally recognized as a speaker on creating positive climate and culture in schools and organizations and is the co-founder of Mission Monday, an initiative focused on improving schools, workplaces, and communities one week at a time.
His professional honors include the Milken Family Foundation Award, Blue Ribbon School of Excellence recognition for Bryant Elementary, and Nebraska’s New Principal Award. He has also served in leadership roles with the Nebraska Association of Elementary School Principals, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and the Nebraska Council of School Administrators.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve the students, staff, and families of Kearney Public Schools for the past 31 years,” Johnson said. “I have so many fond memories over the past years and will have many great stories to tell about my incredible experiences as teacher, principal, colleague and friend of public education. I will always be grateful to have worn the badge of EDUCATOR.”
Details regarding leadership plans for Sunrise Middle School will be announced at a later date.
