Speakers

Dr. John Schwartz stepped into the role of superintendent at the start of the 2022-23 school year after being unanimously selected by the Millard Board of Education. Previously Dr. Schwartz served as the superintendent of the Norris School District since July 2019. Prior to this role, he has served as an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, a high school principal, assistant principal, director of secondary education, and a social studies teacher for the Papillion La Vista, Bellevue, and Seward School Districts. In addition to his work with PK-12 public schools, Dr. Schwartz is an adjunct graduate instructor for Doane University.

Additionally Dr. Schwartz serves as President for Schools Taking Action for Nebraska Children’s Education (STANCE) and Vice President for Greater Nebraska Schools Association (GNSA). He is also a member of Greater Nebraska Superintendents (GNS), Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA), and is the legislative liaison for the  Nebraska Association for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (NACIA).

Dr. Schwartz was named the Nebraska School Counseling Administrator of the Year in 2014 and the Doane University Alumni Educator of the Year in 2015. He is involved in a wide array of committees, associations, and service organizations.

A Nebraska native, Dr. Schwartz holds a bachelor’s, two master’s, education specialist, and a doctoral degree from Doane University. He is a graduate of Waverly High School. Dr. Schwartz and his wife, Laura, have two children who are enrolled in the district and enjoying their experiences in Millard’s schools.

 

With a background in pediatric nursing Amy has seen firsthand what a child and their family goes through when diagnosed with a life threatening condition. This became a reality for her family when her niece, Gabby, was diagnosed with cancer at age 5. Gabby's determination and kind, giving spirit spilled over into her wish to bring a Bag of Fun to every child fighting a battle. It is Amy's wish to bring Bags of Fun to the Omaha area and continue spreading the joy and love that Gabby would have wanted. It is in Gabby's spirit that they bring happiness wrapped up in a backpack to those children going through a really tough time in a world where just being a kid and playing is their job! It is with great honor that the Krause family is able to bring this foundation to the Omaha area and they are extremely grateful for the opportunity to provide joy to children living with a life threatening illness.