Kearney School District recognized Long Veterinary Clinic with its business partnership award during the 2026 "Get On the Bus" event on Thursday, Jan. 29, at Union Station. Clinic proprietor Dr. David Leighr and staff member Marcell Powell were on hand to receive the award.

“Get on the Bus” is a celebration of Real World Learning in the Greater Kansas City Region hosted by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Through partnerships with schools, businesses and the community, the goal is to reimagine high school for the real world. This event recognizes those who elevate student professional experiences and provides a unique opportunity to hear about the experiences of our students.

Other people in attendance with the KSD contingent included:

• KSD Career Readiness Coordinator Emmy Berry
• KHS Kearney Internship Teacher Alyssa Stevens
• Superintendent Emily Miller
• Assistant Superintendent for Academic Services Valerie Utecht
• Kearney Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Stacie Bratcher
• Jennifer Hogan of Academy Bank
• Kearney Enrichment Council Executive Director Laurence Gration
• Kelly Gascich of Redwood Pediatrics

Kearney High School senior Konnar Dampier is a Kauffman Student Voice Ambassador and was a greeter and helper at the event.