Kearney School District had the privilege of celebrating outstanding educators, support professionals, retirees and community partners during the 2026 Team KSD Awards & Retiree Reception on Thursday, April 30, at Tobacco Barn Farm.

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of our districtwide award recipients. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Brad Miller, chemistry teacher at Kearney High School, as the 2026 Kearney School District Teacher of the Year, and Stephanie Dolinar, Puppy Pound Lead at the Kearney Early Education Center, as the 2026 Kearney School District Support Staff of the Year.

Dr. Miller has served 17 years in public education, including the last seven at KHS. He is known for helping students tackle challenging material with confidence, humor and persistence. In a subject that can feel intimidating, Dr. Miller pairs high expectations with encouragement and support, helping students believe they are capable of more than they may have thought.

Mrs. Dolinar has served all 18 years of her public education career with KSD. Her work at the Puppy Pound supports some of our youngest Bulldogs, their families and our district staff members. She creates a safe, structured and joyful environment where children can learn, grow and feel loved.

We are also grateful to the Kearney School District Education Foundation for its tangible support of these awards and its continued investment in our students, teachers and staff. That partnership helps make this recognition even more meaningful for our honorees.

The evening also included recognition for our school-level Teachers of the Year, school-level Support Staff of the Year, 2026 retirees, Volunteer of the Year Aaron Jury and Business of the Year Long Veterinary Clinic.

Congratulations to Dr. Brad Miller, Stephanie Dolinar and all of this year’s Team KSD honorees. Their service, professionalism and heart help make Kearney School District a wonderful place for students to learn and grow.