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Celebration of Excellence 2018-2019 Honors Ninety-four Individuals
09/22/2019
Jim Salestrom is living proof that KHS can give students a strong foundation for a life in the performing arts. He has been nominated twice and chosen once for an Emmy Award, recorded nationally-released albums, and performed with superstars Dolly Parton and John Denver. While he built a successful career in the music industry, Jim has never forgotten his youth in Kearney. He has given local performances on a regular basis at the Merryman Performing Arts Center, The World Theatre, and Kearney High School. Salestrom shared “I remember KHS as being a wonderful time in my life. I really liked my teachers back then 1972-73-74. Kearney High School offers you a really solid education. Keep your eyes on your prize--- whatever your mind can dream. You can go anywhere and be anything… if you want it badly enough.”
Outstanding Support Staff- Lori Jenkins- Horizon Middle School
Lori Jenkins goes above and beyond in the classroom and outside of school hours. Lori connects with students in the classroom on a different level than most paraprofessionals. She knows how and when to push a student. She also volunteers with the Quiz Bowl team, which she volunteers to do, and comes in before and after school to help students with homework. Every teacher at Horizon Middle School wants Lori to be in their classroom and celebrates when they have the chance for her to help. Lori has been a paraprofessional for six years at Horizon Middle School and is the reason why many students have great accomplishments.
Outstanding Support Staff- Trent Bosard- Director of Facilities
Trent Bosard played a pivotal role in the construction of the new Kearney High School, the Facilities Building, and Transition Program Building; renovations of Horizon Middle School, Northeast Elementary School, and the KPS Administration Building; and an expansion of Buffalo Hills Elementary School. Trent excels at leading a team that ensures our students have safe, modern, clean and efficient buildings in which to learn. His dedication to serving our students and staff make him an outstanding member of Kearney Public Schools Staff.
Outstanding Educator- Kelly Peak- Buffalo Hills Elementary
Kelly Peak does not stop when the work is done, she continues to push her students to accomplish more. She allows a perfect balance of work and fun in her classroom. Her students love coming to school. Kelly puts them on the right path for the rest of their education. She realizes that every student is different and helps them overcome the challenges that they face. Her love for every student is evident. Kelly has worked at Buffalo Hills Elementary for 7 Years and has been with Kearney Public Schools for 17 years.
Outstanding Retired Educator- Sandy Mahalek
Sandy Mahalek’s retirement did not diminish her commitment to Kearney Public Schools students. Her seven years of volunteer work with students at Emerson Elementary is outstanding. She regularly helps in the classroom and spends hundreds of hours working with many students individually and in small groups. Sandy willingly steps in and helps with whatever needs to be done. She builds great relationships with the students. Sandy is a consistent supporter of Emerson and is appreciated by the staff and students. Her work as a volunteer is a tremendous asset to the schools and the community.