KEARNEY, Neb. -- A principal in Kearney is announcing her retirement after many years of service.

According to a news release, Kenwood Elementary Principal Jill Clevenger announced her retirement after 33 years in education.

During her 19 years at Kenwood, she was awarded the 2020 National Distinguished Principal of the Year from Nebraska. 

"I am immensely grateful for the privilege of serving as the Principal of Kenwood Elementary for the past 19 years," Clevenger said. "It has been an honor to work alongside such dedicated educators and hard-working staff that together have been able to contribute to the growth and development of our incredible students as well as the exceptional culture of our school. I will miss this school community dearly.”

Kearney Public Schools will begin a search for her replacement.