George Loofe Named Principal Of The Year

Neligh-Oakdale Principal George Loofe was named the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association (NRCSA) 2018 Principal of the Year.

The award was announced at the 2018 NRCSA Spring Conference held at the Kearney Holiday Inn and Convention Center on Friday.

Loofe was so suprised by the award that he had little to say while accepting the accolade. He was joined on stage by his wife, Susie, and children Levi and Kenzie.

​“Thanks, it’s been a pleasure,” he said after receiving a standing ovation.

Loofe was recognized for being outstanding in communicating with students, to parents and for being able to resolve problem situations with tact, diplomacy and fairness.

Among the comments read during the award presentation were: "This principal possesses strong knowledge in school improvement, student assessment, staff development and community involvement." 

“The greatest strength this principal has is his relationship with kids."

“This is one of the best hires I’ve made in my 24 years I was a superintendent.”

"When he first started out in the district, (Neligh-Oakdale) had a reputation for having a rough student body. It is now a school that is a much better place and it is very rare that a student ends up in the office for disciplinary purposes.”

“Our school is a better place to be for students and teachers because he is our principal."

"He missed very few days while dealing with health issues and a family tragedy. He knew his kids, staff needed him as much as he needed them."