KPS, UNK to continue to share facilities

KEARNEY, Neb. (KSNB) - Kearney Public Schools and the University of Nebraska at Kearney have signed an agreement to continue sharing facilities until June 2033.

The MOU is a 10-year extension from June 2023 to June 2033. UNK will have access to the Kearney High School pool/natatorium and track, while KPS will access the UNK Cope Stadium and football field.

“We are grateful for the incredible partnership that we have with the university,” said Jason Mundorf, KPS Superintendent. “This agreement benefits both parties and continues the relationships and camaraderie between our educational institutions. With no cost to either party, these savings are also passed on to our taxpayers when we can share our top-notch facilities. Kearney has always had a spirit of cooperation and finding solutions that work for everyone, and I believe this agreement continues that spirit with our fantastic partners at UNK. I’d like to give a special thanks to Jon Watts, Lynelle Fritzen, Marc Bauer, and Ryan Hogue, who worked behind the scenes to see this agreement extended with mutual benefit for both sides.”

Marc Bauer, UNK Athletic Director, echoed those feelings, “We are grateful that for nearly two decades, UNK and Kearney Public schools have developed a cooperative relationship pursuing mutual-need opportunities by expanding the use of our public facilities and grounds. Rather than the facilities sitting empty, our partnership has become an integral part of enhancing recreational resources that bolster our student-athletes’ experiences to learn, socialize, and exercise. As a result of our shared-facility plan, we have been able to create synergetic benefits, such as fiscal resourcefulness and uniting our community. In an effort to support, improve, and advance our mission, we look forward to extending our partnership with KPS and working closely with Jason Mundorf and Ryan Hogue. Together, we can achieve more.”

Kearney Public Schools and the University of Nebraska at Kearney have had a long-standing relationship supporting each other on multiple fronts. KPS has used the athletic facilities at UNK and hosted KPS graduation at the Health and Sports Center for the past 20 years.

“KPS appreciates the partnership we have developed with UNK over the years,” stated Ryan Hogue, KHS Assistant Principal, and Activities Director. “The UNK administration and coaches have always been a pleasure to work with in preparing for events at UNK and Kearney High School. Solidifying this partnership for the foreseeable future was a high priority for both parties. This partnership is a win-win for both educational and athletic institutions, and I am pleased that we can extend this relationship for years to come.”