KEARNEY, Neb. — A Central Nebraska school district is choosing an area superintendent to fill a vacant administrative role.

Kearney Public Schools announced Monday that Jeff Schwartz will be the district’s new Director of Student Services and Safety. He replaces Dr. Dan Endorf, who is leaving to become superintendent at Cozad Public Schools.

Schwartz comes to Kearney from Boone Central Schools in Albion where he has served as superintendent this school year. His previous stops include being principal at Axtell Public Schools, assistant principal at Auburn Public Schools and assistant principal at Riverside Public Schools.

"Mr. Schwartz is a collegial, experienced, and talented leader who collaboratively leads and solves problems,” KPS superintendent Jason Mundorf said in a statement.  “He will be a supportive communicator who will continue the tremendous leadership we've experienced in student services and safety under Dr. Endorf.”

Schwartz is a Kearney Public Schools graduate. He also has bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees from UNK.

“Kearney Public Schools is not only a premier school system, but a wonderful community for our family,” Schwartz said. “A safe and positive learning environment is at the forefront in every school system and I am excited to continue pushing these goals forward at KPS.”