Top Teammates and Retirees Honored at Annual Reception

Kearney School District celebrated the best of the Bulldogs during the 2025 Team KSD Awards & Retiree Reception on Thursday, May 1 at Tobacco Barn Farm in Holt.

At the annual ceremony, the district’s 2025 Teacher of the Year Award was given to Kearney Junior High media arts teacher Molly Kuebler and the Support Staff of the Year Award was given to Hawthorne Elementary’s Scott Henrichs.

“Kearney School District takes immense pride in recognizing the outstanding individuals and organizations that exemplify our core values of integrity, respect, future readiness, student focus, and resilience,” Assistant Superintendent for Academic Services Jennifer Kopp said. “The 2025 Team KSD Awards spotlight those who have gone above and beyond to make a lasting impact on our students and community.”

At KJH, Ms. Kuebler has transformed the way students engage with digital storytelling. Her innovative curriculum not only teaches technical skills but also empowers students to express themselves creatively. Kuebler is dedicated to fostering a dynamic and inclusive classroom environment, according to KJH Principal John Goodin.

"Molly's innovative approach to media arts education has not only enriched our curriculum but has also inspired our students to explore their creativity and think critically," Mr. Goodin said. "Her commitment to student engagement and excellence embodies the spirit of our school and the entire district."

Mr. Henrichs consistently provides extraordinary support and dedication to the students he helps. Known for his unwavering commitment to student success, he provides individualized assistance that helps students thrive academically and socially. Hawthorne Elementary Principal Chauncy Rardon commended his patience, kindness, and the positive energy he brings to the school community.

"Scott's unwavering dedication to our students' well-being and academic progress is truly commendable," Mr. Rardon said. "His ability to connect with students and support their individual needs makes a significant difference in their educational journey."

The afternoon event also included the announcement of two other annual district awards. KSD Education Foundation Chair was honored as the 2025 Volunteer of the Year. The Business of the Year Award was presented to both Precision Chiropractic and the Fulfillment House.

Mrs. Kerns has been instrumental in mobilizing resources and support for our schools. Her leadership has led to increased community engagement and the successful implementation of programs that directly benefit students and teachers. Season's passion for education and volunteerism makes her an invaluable asset to KSD.

"Season's tireless efforts and leadership have greatly enhanced the resources available to our students and educators," Superintendent Emily Miller said. "Her dedication exemplifies the profound impact that community involvement has on our schools."

Precision Chiropractic, under the leadership of Dr. Justin Cook, has provided health and wellness support to students and staff, emphasizing the importance of holistic care. Their proactive involvement in school events and health initiatives has made a significant difference in our community. They’ve also provided valuable Real World Learning experiences for KSD students.

Fulfillment House, a nonprofit organization, offers meaningful employment opportunities to individuals with developmental disabilities. Their collaboration with KSD has created inclusive work experiences for students, promoting life skills and independence. Fulfillment House's dedication to empowerment and inclusion aligns perfectly with our district's values.

"Both Precision Chiropractic and Fulfillment House have gone above and beyond in supporting our students and staff," Dr. Miller said. "Their partnerships with KSD are shining examples of how local businesses can positively influence education and community well-being."

The program also featured recognitions for KSD employees who will be retiring at the end of the current academic year. Each retiree was given the opportunity to select a book to be donated to the school library of their choice.

2025 Team KSD Retirees – Current Position, Current School, Years of Service in KSD & Book Selection

•       Cami Aebersold – Guidance Counselor, Dogwood Elementary, 14 years (Carla's Sandwich by Debbie Hermon)

•       Shelia Drescher – Activities Department Administrative Assistant, Kearney High School, 19 years (Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner)

•       Ginger Elsea – Director of Finance, Central Office, 13 years (Millie by McCall Hoyle)

•       Denise Fischer – Kindergarten Teacher, Kearney Elementary, 20 years (Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate)

•       Wendy Fish – Language Arts Teacher, Kearney High School, 24 years (Tuesdays With Morrie, An Old Man, a Young Man and Life's Greatest Lessons by Mitch Albom)

•       Amber Hiley – Teacher, LENS, 29 years (The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen)

•       Cynthia Hollinberger – Paraprofessional, Early Education Center, 7 years (Oh, the Places You Will Go by Dr. Suess)

•       Stacy Holtzclaw – Career Readiness Coordinator, Central Office, 4 years (The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch)

•       Jennifer Kopp – Assistant Superintendent for Academic Services, Central Office, 23 years (The Complete Tales and Poems of Edgar Allen Poe)

•       John Luppes – Fifth-Grade Teacher, Southview Elementary, 29 years (There's a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom by Louis Sachar)

•       David Schwarzenbach – Activities Director, Kearney High School, 24 years (It's Your Ship by Michael Abrashoff)

This year’s school-level Teacher of the Year and Support Staff of the Year award recipients were also recognized at the reception.

2025 School Teacher of the Year Award Recipients

•       Early Education Center – Holly Anderson

•       Dogwood Elementary – Nicholas “Nic” Mattson

•       Hawthorne Elementary – Chelsea Miller

•       Kearney Elementary – Nanette Stout

•       Southview Elementary – Rachel Terrill

•       Kearney Middle School – Lauren Thomas

•       Kearney Junior High – Molly Kuebler

•       Kearney High School – Kassidy Robertson

2025 School Support Staff of the Year Award Recipients

•       Early Education Center – Donna Lance

•       Dogwood Elementary – Ashley Bricker

•       Hawthorne Elementary – Theodore “Scott” Henrichs

•       Kearney Elementary – Kalie Dickson

•       Southview Elementary – Jaclyn “Jaci” Mick

•       Kearney Middle School – Brian “B.J.” Webster

•       Kearney Junior High – Jennifer Duncan

•       Kearney High School – Lacy Howdeshell

•       KSD Central Office – Stacy Holtzclaw

•       2025 Team KSD Retirees

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the 2025 Team KSD Award recipients. Your contributions have not only enriched our schools but have also set a standard of excellence that inspires us all.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.

Kearney Parks Offers Youth Baseball & Softball Camps

Young athletes looking to sharpen their skills on the diamond this summer won’t want to miss the 2025 Youth Baseball & Softball Camp, hosted by Kearney Parks and Recreation in partnership with Play It Again Sports - Liberty.

The four-day camp, running from July 21 to 24 at Mack Porter Park, promises to be a high-energy, skill-focused experience for players of all levels, ages 6 to 14. Campers will receive expert instruction from Coach Wheeler, a veteran with over 10 years of coaching experience at both the collegiate and high school levels. Known for helping more than 20 players advance to higher levels of competition, Coach Wheeler brings a dynamic and encouraging coaching style aimed at helping young athletes grow in ability and confidence.

Sessions are split by age group, with campers ages 6 to 9 meeting from 10 am to noon, and those ages 10 to 14 attending from 12:30 to 2:30 pm. The cost is $125 per participant.

Registration is now open and will remain available through Wednesday, July 16. Interested families are encouraged to sign up early, as space may be limited.

For more information or to register, visit the Kearney Parks and Recreation WEBSITE or contact their office directly at (816) 628-4142.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Bulldogs Dominate Grandview with Fourth-Inning Explosion

Tyler Maynard made 3 rbi’s and hit a homerun - photo by David Haggart

The Kearney Bulldogs baseball team delivered a commanding 13-0 shutout against the Grandview Bulldogs on Wednesday, April 30, lighting up the scoreboard with a seven-run surge in the fourth inning that sealed the victory in front of the hometown crowd.

From the first pitch, it was all Kearney. Senior standout Tyler Maynard set the tone early with a two-run blast over the left field fence in the bottom of the first. Cameron Taylor followed with an RBI double, and Caleb Fletchall chipped in a sacrifice fly to give Kearney a quick 4-0 lead.

The Bulldogs added to the tally in the third with a clutch double by Luke Tucking, extending the lead to 6-0. Then came the fireworks in the fourth. Maynard’s RBI double kicked things off before Trey White ripped a single to drive in two more. Kavan Mortensen followed with a bases-clearing single, bringing in three runs, and White capped off the inning with a triple to bring the score to 13-0.

On the mound, Easton Haggart was lights out. The ace right-hander gave up just one hit over five shutout innings, striking out seven and walking three to secure the win.

Offensively, Kearney racked up 11 hits. Taylor was perfect at the plate, going 3-3, while Maynard, White, and Mortensen each tallied three RBIs. The Bulldogs showed great patience at the plate as well, drawing seven walks—two each from Grant Bogert and Brock Scott.

Kearney’s aggression on the base paths kept Grandview on its heels all game. The Dawgs stole 12 bases, with Taylor, Tucking, Bogert, and Trent Dostal each swiping multiple bags. The defense backed up the dominant pitching, turning a double play and committing zero errors. Fletchall led the team with four defensive chances.

Grandview’s only hit came from Chase Ransom, who went 1-2. They managed a double play on defense but couldn’t keep up with Kearney’s relentless attack.

Kearney’s season record now stands at 12-9. The next broadcast of Bulldog baseball on 102.7FM will be on Monday, May 5 as Kearney hosts the Winnetonka Griffins. Pregame starts at 4:30 and the first pitch is at 5 pm.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Teen Missing After Boarding School Bus in Glenaire

*** 8:30 pm Update: Thanks to alert residents who contacted law enforcement when they saw her this afternoon, Cheyanne McCaslin has been located in Glenaire and is safe.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a missing 15-year-old girl who was last seen Monday morning.

Cheyanne McCaslin was spotted getting on her school bus in the 100 block of Johnson Road in Glenaire, but never arrived at any of her classes at Discovery Middle School in Liberty, authorities said. Investigators noted that McCaslin also left her phone at home.

Cheyanne was last seen on a school bus Monday, April 28. Cheyanne did NOT get on the school bus Tuesday morning and did not attend school that day, nor did she go to school Wednesday. Residents in a nearby neighborhood, however, did have video of her walking about the same time many of the school’s students were boarding buses yesterday morning.

She was wearing black shorts with a gray hooded sweatshirt with a Liberty Blue Jay logo on it, and she was carrying a backpack with sunflowers.

Cheyanne is described as 4 feet 11 inches tall, weighing approximately 115 pounds. She has long, light brown hair, wears glasses, and was last seen Tuesday morning.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office at 816-407-3700.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Vigilant Citizen, Traffic Stop Lead to Arrest of Fugitive

A routine act of community vigilance and a simple traffic stop led to the arrest of a fugitive who had evaded justice for more than 18 years.

On Sunday, April 27, a concerned Greenfield neighborhood resident noticed a suspicious vehicle that didn’t appear to belong in the area. The citizen promptly contacted authorities, and officers from the Kearney Police Department responded to investigate.

After locating the vehicle, a Kearney patrol officer observed the driver commit a traffic violation. During the stop, the driver was unable to provide a driver's license, any form of identification, or even a Social Security number.

Due to the suspicious circumstances, the Clay County Sheriff's Office was called to the scene with a mobile fingerprint scanner. Once the suspect’s fingerprints were analyzed, officers discovered the man’s true identity — a 38-year-old from Kansas City, Kansas, wanted in connection with two violent felony offenses in Johnson County, Kansas.

The man had been on the run from both state and federal authorities for over 18 years. He was taken into custody by Kearney Police and transported to the Clay County Detention Center, where he is being held without bond.

Further investigation revealed the man had also been living in the United States illegally for several years. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been notified, and federal authorities are expected to pursue additional charges after the resolution of his felony cases.

Kearney Police praised the alert citizen for their quick action, which ultimately led to the capture of a long-sought fugitive. The Police Department also reminds residents that if you see something suspicious to say something.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.