KEARNEY, Neb. — Kearney Public Schools is promoting an educator with nearly a decade of experience in the district to assistant principal.

KPS announced Thursday that Sarah Hawthorne is the new assistant principal for Bryant and Emerson Elementary Schools. She replaces Meredith Johnson, who was recently selected as the new principal at Emerson.

“Ms. Hawthorne is highly regarded by colleagues for her ability to build relationships and foster a positive school culture,” Johnson said in a statement. “She is deeply committed to supporting the academic and social-emotional needs of all students and ensuring that every child has access to a high-quality education.”

Sarah Hawthorne has been a sixth-grade teacher at Sunrise Middle School since 2014.  Before coming to Kearney, Hawthorne worked as an elementary teacher for Papillion-LaVista Public Schools (2010-2014) and Louisburg Public Schools (2008-2010).

"We are thrilled to have Sarah join our team," Bryant principal Dustin Mitchell said. "Her passion for education makes her an excellent addition to our school. We look forward to working together and to continue providing exceptional educational opportunities for our students."

As assistant principal, KPS says Hawthorne will be responsible for supporting the principals in the day-to-day operations of the schools, as well as working collaboratively with teachers, staff, students, and families to ensure a positive and productive learning environment for all.

Hawthorne holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Kansas and is on track to receive a PK-8 Principal Endorsement from the University of Nebraska-Kearney next year. She has been active in the NexGen Leadership Academy, MTSS Implementation Team, Math Curriculum Committee, Middle-Level Renewal Project, and a School-Wide Behavior Team.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the last nine years at Sunrise Middle School, and while I will miss Sunrise dearly, I am excited to begin my next chapter in education as assistant principal at Emerson and Bryant,” Hawthorne said. “Educating and supporting students is my passion, and I look forward to making a difference in the lives of our students and their families.”