KEARNEY, Neb. — Kearney Public Schools is promoting from within in its search for the leader of a new school.

The district announced Monday that Kyle Heilbrun will be the principal for Kearney’s new K-5 alternative school, which is set to open for the 2026-2027 school year. Heilbrun is the school psychologist at the Hanny Arram Center for Success, which is the district’s alternative school for grades 6-12.

“Kyle will bring an expert perspective and leadership skills to this unique setting ensuring our K-5 alternative school is an effective environment for students to receive intensified therapeutic and behavioral coping skills development,” superintendent Jason Mundorf said. “We are excited to see his vision come to life as he works with his staff developing a nurturing and supportive atmosphere for our students.”

The school board approved the plan for the new alternative school in December by a 5-1 vote. Supporters said behaviorally-challenged kids need their own facility because of an increase in violent threats. Those against the new school were opposed to the fact that it would be at the current Glenwood Elementary building and displace those students.

Heilbrun will start in his new role on July 1. According to a news release, he will spend the next year developing the school’s practices and policies, assembling a staff and finalizing plans for the program’s implementation.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this new school and work with KPS to create an environment where every student can thrive,” Heilbrun said. “Our goal will be to provide individualized support and innovative strategies to help students achieve their fullest potential and return to their regular classroom environment with the skills they need to be successful.”

The Glenwood Elementary building will undergo renovations starting this summer. Students from Glenwood will transition to Buffalo Hills Elementary beginning in the fall of 2025.