Lurz receives Distinguished Service Award from Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals

Lurz, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary/Middle School Education and a master’s degree in K-12 Administration, is in his third year as the secondary principal for Gibbon Public Schools. He previously served as the Ogallala High School Principal, High School Principal for Chadron Public Schools, Activities Director and 7-12 Principal for Crawford Public School, and K-12 Principal for Hay Springs Public Schools. 

He has been active in many professional organizations such as the Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) having served on the executive board; the Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals (NSASSP) as the state president in 2015 and previously president for Region V; the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP); and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD). Lurz also received the NSASSP Distinguished Service Award in 2015. In 2017 he was awarded the Nebraska FCCLA National School Administrator Award. Lurz is also active in the community and currently serves as the president of the Gibbon Chamber of Commerce.

Sina Martin Lehn, a parent from Gibbon, said exceptional communication practices and demonstrated leadership are hallmarks of Lurz's skill set.

"He seeks to coordinate and find avenues for success for a wide variety of students from diverse backgrounds. He prides himself on being a hands-on principal and takes every possible opportunity to check in with students, staff and patrons,” Lehn said.

Laura Neubauer, former Gibbon High School Counselor, said Lurz's ability to build relationships with everyone in the education process is one of his outstanding qualities.

"He is respected and well-liked by all ages and is considered to be fair. Mr. Lurz is very deserving of this award. He gives his all and serves as an exemplary model in whatever he does,” Neubauer said.

Brian Fleischman, PK-12 Principal at Overton Public Schools said Lurz completed his tenure on the NSASSP Board serving as president in 2015-2016.

"During this time, Mr. Lurz showed great leadership for the organization. He was and still is an advocate for member involvement at the region and state level. Mr. Lurz has encouraged multiple young principals to become more involved in NSASSP,” Fleischman said.