Scottsbluff Public Schools has announced the appointment of Jana Mason as its new Executive Director of Human Resources. Mason, a long-serving leader within the district, will assume the role at the start of the 2026–27 school year, marking a significant step in the district's strategic development.
This new position aims to enhance the district's capacity to recruit, develop, and retain high-quality staff, aligning directly with its primary strategic priority. The decision reflects a broader trend among comparable Nebraska school districts that already benefit from dedicated human resources leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Jana Mason appointed Executive Director of Human Resources for Scottsbluff Public Schools.
- The new role begins in the 2026–27 school year.
- Position created to strengthen staff recruitment, development, and retention.
- Mason has 16 years of principal experience within the district.
- District's leadership model is being reorganized to enhance support for schools.
Mason's Extensive Background in Scottsbluff
Jana Mason has dedicated her entire career to Scottsbluff Public Schools since joining in 2007. Her journey began as a classroom teacher, providing her with a fundamental understanding of student needs and educational environments. This hands-on experience has been crucial to her progression through various leadership roles.
Her leadership journey includes serving as principal at multiple elementary schools, including Longfellow Elementary and Roosevelt Elementary. Most recently, Mason has led Bluffs Middle School for the past eight years, demonstrating consistent leadership and a deep commitment to the school community.
"I am truly honored for the opportunity to serve as the Executive Director of Human Resources for Scottsbluff Public Schools," Mason stated. "This role presents a unique chance to contribute to the growth and success of the entire District. I am very grateful for my experience as principal at Bluffs Middle School. It has been a pleasure to work alongside the amazing students, staff, and families during the last eight years."
Educational Achievements Supporting Leadership
Mason's academic background further strengthens her qualifications for this executive position. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in social work from the University of Wyoming, providing a strong foundation in community and individual support. She then pursued a Bachelor's Degree in elementary education from Chadron State College, which directly informed her early career as a teacher.
Furthering her administrative capabilities, Mason secured a Master's in educational administration from Chadron State. Her most advanced degree, a K-12 superintendent specialist degree, was obtained from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, equipping her with a comprehensive understanding of district-wide operations and leadership.
Quick Facts: Jana Mason's Career
- Started: 2007 with Scottsbluff Public Schools
- Initial Role: Classroom teacher
- Principal Experience: Longfellow Elementary, Roosevelt Elementary, Bluffs Middle School
- Years as Principal: 16 years in total
- Latest Role: Principal at Bluffs Middle School for eight years
Strategic Importance of the New HR Role
The Scottsbluff Public Schools Board of Education approved the creation of the Executive Director of Human Resources position at its November meeting. This new role, effective for the 2026–27 school year, represents a critical element of the district's long-term strategic plan.
Dr. Andrew Dick, SBPS Superintendent, emphasized the rigorous selection process and Mason's suitability for the role. Her extensive experience and established relationships within the district were key factors in her selection.
"Jana Mason’s strong credibility among staff and peers, combined with her proven leadership at Longfellow, Roosevelt, and Bluffs Middle School, allowed her to emerge as the top choice in a competitive selection process," said Dr. Dick. "With 16 years of Principal experience, well-established relationships with staff, and exceptional organizational insight, Jana is prepared to lead this vital function within our 560 employee organization."
Enhancing District-Wide Support
The creation of this position is part of a larger reorganization effort within the district's leadership model. This restructuring aims to expand expertise across several key areas, including Finance, Human Resources, Curriculum and Instruction, and Student Services. The goal is to provide enhanced support to all schools within the district.
Many school districts of comparable size across Nebraska already have dedicated human resources leadership. This move by Scottsbluff Public Schools aligns the district with best practices observed statewide, underscoring the importance of this strategic decision for organizational effectiveness.
Broader Context: District Strategic Plan
The new Executive Director of Human Resources position directly supports Strategic Priority #1 of the District’s five-year strategic plan. This priority focuses on strengthening the district's ability to attract, develop, and retain high-quality educational professionals. A robust human resources department is seen as essential for achieving this objective and ensuring sustained academic excellence.
Funding and Future Impact
The initial funding for the Executive Director of Human Resources position will come from the purposeful use of grant funds. This approach allows the district to establish the role without immediate impact on existing operational budgets. In the long term, the position will be sustained through attrition and internal reorganization, maintaining strong support for teaching and learning initiatives.
With Mason's appointment slated for formal approval at the January Regular Meeting of the SBPS Board of Education, the district is already preparing for the transition. The search process for the next principal of Bluffs Middle School will begin immediately to ensure a smooth handover and continued strong leadership at the school.
The Road Ahead for Bluffs Middle School
The departure of Jana Mason from Bluffs Middle School will open a significant leadership vacancy. The district recognizes the importance of this role and plans to conduct a thorough search to find a successor who can continue the school's positive trajectory. This process will ensure that Bluffs Middle School maintains its commitment to students, staff, and families.
The district remains focused on its strategic goals. The new HR leadership is expected to play a central role in strengthening the overall educational environment and supporting the professional growth of its 560 employees, ultimately benefiting thousands of students in Scottsbluff.