Mark Stute, (Kearney Public Schools, Courtesy)
“Make it a great dayor not; the choice is yours,” is a statement Mark Stute, the principal of Meadowlark Elementary, has lived by for his entire 34 years in education, including 19 remarkable years at Kearney Public Schools.
This year, Stute is preparing to retire. Known for his positive energy, unwavering support, and deep commitment to excellence, Stute leaves behind a legacy defined by relationships, growth, and a love for learning.
His education journey began early. “I loved working with kids when I was in high school,” he said. “I started coaching little league baseball my freshman year and never looked back.” That early passion blossomed into a fulfilling career, including eight years as a high school business teacher and head volleyball coach at Ravenna Public Schools, followed by 26 years as a principal—seven in Sidney, Nebraska, and the last 19 at Meadowlark.
Stute says patience is one of the most valuable lessons he’s learned over the years. But what truly inspired him to take on a leadership role was the desire to make a broader impact. “I wanted to make a difference for more students and teachers, and the idea of becoming a positive leader truly inspired me.”
Throughout his time at Meadowlark, Stute has helped build a school culture centered on excellence, positivity, and belonging. “One of my proudest accomplishments has been how the staff and students have embraced the idea of excellence. Meadowlark continues to be one of the top schools in the state—not just in test scores but in character-building. Every day is a learning experience, and we embrace every opportunity.”
Of all the moments he’s cherished, one annual tradition stands out. “Each year during the Senior Walk, former students return to share their memories of Meadowlark. It’s powerful to hear what truly mattered to them and to realize the lasting impact of those early experiences.”
For Stute, the people have made all the difference. “The staff, students, and parents—we’re one big Meadowlark family,” he shared. “They’ve truly become my family. That’s what I’ll miss the most: the relationships I’ve built each and every day.”
Navigating challenges has been part of the job, particularly supporting students facing difficult circumstances. “Working with students who had a lot going on in their lives taught me the importance of trust and being in their corner,” he said. And as technology and social media began to influence education more deeply, Stute leaned into connection. “You have to build strong relationships so students will listen and engage. It’s an ongoing process.”
He hopes to be remembered as someone who always believed in others. “Expect the best from yourself and others, and amazing things will happen. Expectations create results. I also hope people remember that I was always positive and loved my job.”
Stute offers simple but powerful advice to his successor and aspiring school leaders: “Always be visible, available, positive, and be a strong listener.”
While he hasn’t finalized his retirement plans, Stute knows his heart will remain in education and the Kearney community. “Absolutely—I’ll stay involved; I’m just not sure yet in what capacity.”
Stute expressed deep gratitude for those who supported him throughout his career. “The amazing Meadowlark staff, students, parents, past administrators, fellow principals, and especially Mrs. Brodine—my mentor during student teaching—have all played a part in this journey. And, of course, my incredible family, who sacrificed so much during the late nights and weekends while I was doing the job I love.”
Superintendent Jason Mundorf praised Stute’s leadership, saying, “Mark Stute is the kind of principal every district hopes to have. His consistency, compassion, and high expectations have created a culture at Meadowlark that uplifts students and staff. He leads with heart and humility, and his legacy will live on in the lives of the many people he’s impacted. He is loved by the Meadowlark school community; we are incredibly grateful for his years of service and wish him the very best in retirement.”
Stute hopes students and staff will remember one thing: “That we were a family, and I always had their back.”
As he signs off from his role as principal, two mottos stick with him: “Don’t become a moldy grape—surround yourself with positive and inspirational people.” And his daily mantra: “Make it a great day… or not. The choice is YOURS.”
