Seven Kearney schools ranked in top 10% of Nebraska, celebrate with confetti cannons
At Kearney Public Schools, they know how to celebrate accomplishments.
By News Channel NebraskaKEARNEY, Neb. — At Kearney Public Schools, they know how to celebrate accomplishments.
On Wednesday at Park Elementary, that meant a school assembly with teachers blasting confetti cannons. The colorful ceremony was in recognition of the school being listed by U.S. News and World Report in the top 10 percent of all elementary schools in Nebraska.
Principal Chance Waggoner says the accomplishment was a team effort.
“I think we have some of the most hardworking staff you will find in the state. They are dedicated, they come every day ready to teach our students," Waggoner said. "We’ve got great students. They’re hardworking, they’re engaged, they do their best. They know the importance of learning and that comes from their families.”
Park wasn’t alone in the honor. Five KPS elementary schools were ranked among the top 10% of the 2024 Best in Nebraska: Park, Meadowlark, Windy Hills, and Buffalo Hills. Central Elementary was in the top 20%. There are 490 Nebraska elementary schools.
Sunrise and Horizon Middle Schools were in the top 21% of all 175 Nebraska Middle Schools.
The ranking focuses on state assessments of students who were proficient or above proficient in math and reading while accounting for student backgrounds and achievement in core subjects.