Callaway Public School welcomes students and faculty back to the building to kick off the 2026-27 school year today, Aug. 20. Helping educate the kiddos this year will be two teachers new to the CPS district. To help us get to know them better, we asked the new teachers a few questions and have included their responses here.

Along with the new teachers, there have also been some internal shifts in personnel, as well as the addition of a new business manager. We will meet those individuals in a future issue of the Courier.

KENDRA BOYD: 7-12 Science

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Northeast Nebraska. I graduated from Norfolk Senior High School and spent part of my childhood on the timber claim of my great-great-grandfather. My parents are fourth-generation farmers in Madison County.

2. When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in education, and what factors helped lead you to that choice?

Teaching will be my second career. I spent 25 years working for seed and crop research companies. Part of my previous career was managing corn pollinating nurseries. I enjoyed mentoring high school students in this role. This, in part, is one of the reasons I have chosen education. The other reasons are because of my own secondary education. I struggled in elementary school, but I had some excellent junior high and high school teachers who helped me understand I was capable of anything I put my mind to, even if it takes me longer.

It was time for me to pay it forward.

3. How many years have you been teaching, and what schools have you taught in prior to coming to CPS?

Science teaching at CPS will be my first teaching position. I am in the transitional program at UNK that allows undergrad majors to apply their previous credits to an endorsement area. Once I finish my schooling, I will have a full teaching certificate.

4. Finally, share whatever you would like about your hobbies and family.

My husband Shawn is a land surveyor who works for Miller and Associates. We have two daughters. Our oldest is Hannah, and she works for the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs at the state capital. Hannah and her fiancé Nick are getting married in September.

Alexis, our youngest, works for Sweet Magnolias bakery in Omaha. In our free time, my husband and I enjoy traveling, hiking, and attending concerts.

JOHN KLEMMENSEN - 7-12 Math

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Sioux City, Iowa, and graduated from South Sioux City High School. 2. When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in education, and what factors helped lead you to that choice?

I was a junior in high school when I started noticing what my teachers and coaches were doing for students in our building. I decided that I wanted to be a supporter of youth just like them.

3. How many years have you been teaching, and what schools have you taught in prior to coming to CPS?

I have taught for three years, all at Columbus High School in Columbus. 4. Finally, share whatever you would like about your hobbies and family. My wife and I celebrated our first anniversary last month! We have a large dog and two cats. We have spent the summer hitting all of the golf courses and fishing lakes in the area.