Principal roles changing at Kearney High, Horizon Middle School
Administration at two schools in Kearney will experience a shake-up ahead of the next school year.
KEARNEY, Neb. — Administration at two schools in Kearney will experience a shake-up ahead of the next school year.
Kearney Public Schools announced Tuesday that Jeff Ganz is transitioning from principal at Kearney High to assistant principal at Horizon Middle School. Amber Lewis, who is currently principal at Horizon, will be the next high school principal. Bill Schmidt, the current assistant principal at Horizon, will be the school’s next principal.
The district didn’t give a specific reason for the changes, but superintendent Dr. Jason Mundorf said the changes will give the leaders new opportunities and challenges.
“Amber, Bill, and Jeff each bring unique strengths, deep experience, and a student-first mindset,” Mundorf said. “This thoughtful alignment allows us to support both schools with proven leadership while continuing to build strong teams that serve students, families, and staff at the highest level.”
Lewis has served as principal at Horizon since fall 2022. She previously worked as Horizon assistant principal and as a teacher at Kearney High.
“She was a terrific teacher in that building who has a deep understanding of Kearney High School,” Mundorf said. “She has proven herself to be a committed educator with a focus on kids. She excels at building relationships and our KHS students and staff will benefit from her strong leadership skills.”
Schmidt has been assistant principal at Horizon since 2022.
“He has proven himself to be deeply committed to supporting students as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally, and he brings a strong passion for leading and supporting the outstanding staff at Horizon,” Mundorf said.
Ganz has been principal at Kearney High for five years.
“Jeff Ganz has a unique ability to connect with students and support them during critical points in their educational journey,” Mundorf said. “Moving Jeff to Horizon Middle School allows us to leverage his strengths where they are most needed, working closely with students, supporting staff, and helping guide young learners through an important and formative stage of development.”