Catherine Gundersen, (Kearney Public Schools, Courtesy)
KEARNEY — Leaving behind a legacy built on connection, compassion, and unwavering support for students and staff, Northeast Elementary Principal Catherine Gundersen is retiring after 35 years of service in education, including the last 16 years with Kearney Public Schools.
From the beginning, Gundersen knew she wanted to make a difference. Inspired by the teachers in her own life who helped her reach her potential, she entered the classroom to create that same spark for others. “I went into education because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students and help shape their future,” she said. “The teachers who encouraged me were my inspiration—I wanted to be that person for someone else.”
Over her career, she’s worn many hats—teaching high school English and PE, middle school English, and coaching volleyball, basketball, and track—before stepping into leadership roles. She has 21 years as a principal, including principalships at both the elementary and high school level in Kansas before joining Northeast Elementary. Gundersen has brought a wide range of experiences and wisdom to her role.
Education runs in her blood. Coming from a family of educators—including a father who was a superintendent and siblings who also chose education careers—Gundersen was naturally drawn to school leadership. “They inspired me to pursue leadership roles. Education has always been a part of my life.”
As principal, she quickly learned that the heart of education isn’t found solely in curriculum—it’s in relationships. “The real work is building strong relationships and helping students become positive, contributing members of our society,” she said. “The most rewarding part has always been the students—the smiles, the high-fives, the hugs. Being a trusted adult in their lives has been incredibly meaningful.”
She points to several moments of pride during her time at Northeast, especially the programs she helped implement to give students a place to shine and feel connected. A particularly memorable chapter was navigating a major construction project that transformed the school. “It was a challenge to manage the disruptions, switching classrooms mid-year, and keeping staff spirits high. But it was all worth it when we saw what Northeast became—a beautiful, modern space for learning.”
The relationships she built over the years left a lasting impact. “The students and staff helped me grow, challenged me to be better, and kept me grounded. I’m truly grateful for all they’ve taught me.”
Among the many challenges of her career, Gundersen highlighted the balancing act between increased accountability and staying true to her core values as an educator. “Trying to meet the demands of testing while keeping the focus on the whole child was never easy,” she shared. “And, like everyone, getting through the pandemic meant taking it one day at a time.”
As education evolved, she embraced the shift—especially the growth in technology and the increased focus on student well-being. “We’ve come to understand that supporting students beyond academics is essential. I’ve learned so much in that area and leaned on others whose strengths complement my own.”
At the heart of it all, Gundersen’s leadership helped create a school culture that is cohesive, welcoming, and supportive. “The dedication of our staff is what makes Northeast special,” she said. “They go above and beyond every day, not just in academics, but emotionally and socially too.”
Her hopes for her legacy are simple yet profound. “I hope I’ll be remembered for creating a strong, supportive community where every student felt safe, loved, and valued—and for being a champion of education.”
Gundersen offers sincere advice to those stepping into leadership: “Maintain a healthy work-life balance; the work will always be there, but your well-being is more important. Not everything important is urgent and not everything that is urgent is important. Surround yourself with positive and passionate educators. Stay humble.”
As for retirement, she’s excited for a new chapter—one that includes more time with family, exploring hobbies, enjoying nature, and traveling. Most meaningfully, she’ll be reuniting full-time with her husband in Kansas after living apart for 16 years due to their careers. “We’ll finally be under one roof again,” she smiled. “And yes, I do plan to stay involved in education, hopefully in a role similar to what I’ve loved here at Northeast.”
Gundersen expressed her gratitude to the many people who have been part of her journey. “I’ve had the opportunity to work under several incredible leaders at KPS who helped me grow professionally. I also want to thank my assistant principal, Amber Taylor, who stepped into her role so well and who I know will do great things as she takes over. And to the entire staff—thank you for putting up with me all these years!” she laughed.
Superintendent Jason Mundorf praised Gundersen’s long-standing dedication and leadership, saying, “Catherine Gundersen has been a steady and passionate leader for Northeast Elementary. Her deep care for students and unwavering commitment to creating a supportive school culture have left a profound mark on our district. She has led with grace, compassion, and strength, and her presence will be deeply missed by students, staff, and families alike. We wish her all the best in her next chapter.”
What she hopes students and staff remember is simple: “That I truly cared about them. That I always rooted for them and wanted to see them succeed. My goal was always to help make their lives better.”
As she steps away from Northeast, one quote has stayed with her through every challenge and triumph:
“Every day may not be good, but there’s something good in every day.”
