Sara Paider, (Kearney Public Schools, Courtesy)
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools (KPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sara Paider (pronounced “Pider” – rhymes with “spider”) as the new Director of Special Education, starting July 1, 2025. Paider, who currently serves as the Director of PK-5 Education, will be succeeding Melisa Dobish, who will be retiring after a distinguished career in education.
“We are thrilled to have Mrs. Paider transition into this new role, where her skills and dedication will be a tremendous asset to our Special Education department,” stated Jason Mundorf, KPS Superintendent. “Sara is a very hard-working leader who has a heart for all children. She understands the unique complexities teachers and principals face in meeting the goals of Individual Education Plans and marrying those goals with appropriate accommodations. Her multifaceted leadership lens will bring a wealth of knowledge and experiences to our Special Education department and her core principles will bring a commitment ensuring every student has access to quality education. We look forward to her continuing and building on the amazing work and leadership Missy Dobish has provided to our district for the past 15 years.”
With a career spanning various roles in educational leadership, Paider’s background includes serving as the principal of St. Paul Elementary School in St. Paul, Nebraska, where she also directed after-school programs and Summer School and co-led the Crisis Response and Threat Assessment Teams. Her previous experience as a kindergarten teacher, reading coach, and head volleyball coach in multiple Nebraska school districts has equipped her with a deep understanding of the diverse needs of students and educators alike.
“I am honored to take on the role of Director of Special Education and am eager to work alongside the talented staff and families at Kearney Public Schools,” said Paider. “The KPS community is exceptional in its commitment to providing an inclusive and enriching environment for all students. My experience in general education has provided me with a broad understanding of the diverse needs of all learners, and I am eager to bring that perspective to the special education department. I believe that by fostering strong relationships, ensuring inclusive practices, and focusing on student growth, we can continue to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of our students. This opportunity is a privilege, and I am excited to continue making a positive impact within KPS.”
Paider’s educational background includes an Education Specialist degree and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Doane College, along with a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Peru State College. She also holds an Associate of Arts from North Platte Community College. Her certifications include Early Childhood/Elementary PK-6 Teaching, a PK-12 Principal Endorsement, and a superintendent certificate.
Recognized as “Nebraska’s Outstanding New Principal” by the Nebraska Association of Elementary School Principals in 2015-16 and “Boss of the Year” by the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce in 2015, Paider has contributed her expertise to the Nebraska Department of Education Early Childhood Transition Committee, the St. Paul Teammates Mentoring Program, and several other educational organizations.
Kearney Public Schools is excited to see the continued positive influence of Paider’s leadership in her new role and looks forward to her contributions to the district’s Special Education department.
