Connor Williams, (Courtesy)
KEARNEY — The Kearney Public Schools (KPS) Board of Education is pleased to announce the hiring of Connor Williams as the new principal of Meadowlark Elementary School.
Williams will assume his role at the start of the 2025-2026 school year, succeeding Principal Mark Stute, who is retiring after nearly two decades of exemplary service at Meadowlark.
Williams brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new position. Since 2022, he has served as the Director of Teaching and Learning PK-12 at Cozad Community Schools. In this role, he has been instrumental in advancing curriculum development, fostering teacher professional growth, and implementing innovative instructional strategies to enhance student learning.
“We are thrilled to welcome Connor Williams to Meadowlark Elementary,” said Jason Mundorf, Kearney Public Schools Superintendent.
“His passion for education, dedication to student success, and track record of impactful leadership make him an excellent choice to lead Meadowlark into the future. In particular, Mr. Williams has an incredibly strong knowledge of curriculum, instruction, assessment, and data analysis. His ability to continue the exemplary work of Mark Stute and to lead our fantastic Meadowlark teachers and staff will ensure the continuation of a storied history of student success in a wonderful environment at that school.”
Williams expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Meadowlark community. “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and families at Meadowlark . The outstanding work done by Mark Stute during his tenure has cultivated an environment of excellence and belonging for students inside the school walls. I look forward to collaborating with the exceptional staff, students, and families to build on its traditions.”
Williams has a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Doane University, with an Early Childhood endorsement. He has been an instructional coach and taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grades. In addition, he has served as an MTSS District Coordinator, HAL Coordinator, New Teacher Academy Coordinator, District Assessment Coordinator and a District Professional Development Coordinator, among other leadership roles.
Mr. Williams is married to his wife, Terah (a principal at Elm Creek Elementary), and they enjoy their 4-year-old son, Grayden.
Mark Stute, who has served as Meadowlark’s principal since 2006, will retire at the end of the current school year. Under his leadership, Meadowlark has earned a reputation for academic achievement and a welcoming school culture. Stute was named the Region IV Distinguished Principal of the Year for 2022-2023, a testament to his impactful career in education.
The KPS Board of Education and the entire Kearney Public Schools community extend their heartfelt gratitude to Mark Stute for his years of dedication and service and eagerly anticipate the exciting new chapter under Connor Williams’ leadership
