Trent Steele, (Kearney Public Schools, Courtesy)
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools is pleased to announce that Trent Steele has accepted an offer to serve as Kearney High School Assistant Principal for College and Career Readiness, beginning in the fall of 2026.
In this role, Steele will help lead and expand Kearney High School’s college and career readiness efforts, supporting students as they explore career pathways, plan for postsecondary options, and prepare for successful transitions after graduation. He will also be responsible for for student internships, cooperative education, job shadows, and field experiences.
“Dr. Trent Steele brings an exceptional combination of school leadership experience, student-centered decision-making, and a deep understanding of the work it takes to guide students toward their next step,” said Mr. Jeff Ganz, Principal of Kearney High School. “His background in building-level administration, student services, and human resources—paired with his longstanding connection to Kearney—will be an immediate benefit to our students, staff, and families. Furthermore, Dr. Steele will be a catalyst for the continued improvement in our career and technical science programs, student organizations, and community partnerships. He has a strong vision for developing programs and supports needed for students to find their career pathway.”
Steele returns to Kearney Public Schools after previously serving the district as a Kearney High School teacher (1995–1998) and as a Kearney High School assistant principal (2005–2011). He has continued his career in education leadership across Nebraska, including roles as an assistant principal in Gretna High School, Assistant Principal at Papillion LaVista South High School, and Human Resources/Student Services Director at Papillion LaVista Community Schools supporting secondary schools, staffing, student services, and policy implementation.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to Kearney High School and serve students in an area that is both personal and important—helping them graduate with a clear plan and the confidence to pursue it,” Steele said. “Kearney is a community I deeply respect, and I look forward to working alongside the KHS team to strengthen the experiences and supports that help every student move forward.”
Steele holds a doctorate in educational administration and has extensive experience supporting academic and behavioral interventions, instructional leadership, and school culture. His professional background also includes legal training, which supports his work in policy, process, and problem-solving in educational settings.
Dr. Steele has a wife, Karla, and children Bennett and Kitt. Karla Steele has a background in business, and was formerly active in the Kearney community, including work with the restoration of the World Theatre, UNK, and The Buckle. Bennett attends Kansas State University, majoring in secondary education, and Kitt attends the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in psychology.
