‘School mom’ to ‘school grandma’: Secretary has served students for 52 years

For over half a century, Brenda Kuhlman has been a constant, comforting presence at Pope John XXIII Central Catholic School in Elgin, Nebraska, greeting students each morning. Known affectionately within the school community, Kuhlman has served as the school’s administrative assistant and office manager since she was 17, witnessing its growth from a small institution to a cornerstone of the local community.

The school opened its doors in 1967, eight years before Kuhlman began her career there. This timing is significant; 1967 marked a period of change and growth in rural Nebraska, as the state grappled with agricultural shifts and population fluctuations. The establishment of Pope John XXIII Central Catholic School reflected a commitment to preserving Catholic education in a region where smaller, parish-based schools were struggling to remain viable. The consolidation of several area parishes to support the school demonstrates the dedication of the local Catholic community.

A Career Born of Opportunity

Kuhlman’s journey at the school began unexpectedly. She gained skills in shorthand, bookkeeping, and typing as part of her high school electives. The fact that Kuhlman was offered the position so young speaks to her aptitude and the school's willingness to invest in local talent.

A Lifelong Connection

The school serves eight parishes in surrounding communities. Students travel from towns including Raeville, Petersburg, Neligh, Clearwater and Ewing to attend Pope John Central Catholic. The geographic reach of the school underscores its importance as a regional educational hub. These communities, often characterized by agricultural livelihoods and tight-knit social structures, rely on Pope John for providing a faith-based education that emphasizes both academic excellence and character development. The distance students travel also speaks to the limited educational options available in these rural areas and the value placed on Catholic schooling.

Today, the school serves approximately 130 students from prekindergarten through 12th grade. This relatively small size fosters a close-knit community where students know and support one another. Maintaining a viable school of this size requires significant community involvement and fundraising efforts, a challenge that Kuhlman has consistently helped to navigate. The school's enrollment numbers also reflect broader trends in rural education – smaller class sizes, but a commitment to preserving a unique educational identity.

Kuhlman met her husband at the school and raised six children south of Raeville. Now her grandchildren attend Pope John Central Catholic. This multigenerational connection highlights Kuhlman’s deep roots in the community and her unwavering loyalty to the school. Her children’s education at Pope John likely influenced her decision to remain with the institution for so long, demonstrating a personal investment in its mission.

The Heart of the School

Lauren Borer, who returned to her alma mater as a teacher, speaks volumes about Kuhlman’s impact. “I just remember coming here as a 7th grader. And Brenda just became that like school mom for us,” she said. “And now that my kids go here, like they kind of see her as like the school grandma.” Borer added, “She knows the stories and the history, but most importantly, she knows the people. And so if we ever have a question about what happened, way back when, she knows everything.” Borer’s perspective encapsulates the multifaceted role Kuhlman plays – a maternal figure, a keeper of institutional memory, and a vital link between generations of students.

Deb Warren, who attended class with Kuhlman and later served as the development director while Kuhlman worked in the office, praised her colleague’s dedication. “Oh, she’s driven. She is a detailed kind of person. So depending on what job you’re working or if you’re doing fundraising or something, Brenda knows all the details,” Warren said. “She keeps the school running like a well-oiled machine for sure.” Warren also noted Kuhlman's widespread popularity. Warren’s experience as development director provides insight into the fundraising challenges faced by smaller, private schools and underscores Kuhlman's critical role in securing the school's financial stability.

More Than Just an Administrator

Kuhlman's duties extend far beyond typical administrative tasks. She manages school funds, returns lost backpacks, and is a keeper of the school’s history, diligently maintaining scrapbooks filled with photographs of graduates that she displays in her office. The meticulous record-keeping demonstrates a deep commitment to preserving the school's legacy and celebrating the achievements of its students. These scrapbooks serve as a tangible link to the past, reminding current students of the traditions and values that have shaped the school's identity.

“And it seems like you get attached to the classes, more attached as I get older for some reason, and it’s hard to see some of them leave,” Kuhlman said, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of watching generations of students move on. This sentiment highlights the emotional toll of long-term service and the deep personal connections Kuhlman has forged with students and their families over the years. The school's graduation ceremonies are undoubtedly poignant events for her, marking both a celebration of accomplishment and a farewell to familiar faces.

Looking to the Future

Despite her long tenure and deep connection to the school, Kuhlman is in no hurry to retire. Her reluctance to retire speaks to her dedication and the satisfaction she derives from her work. The school will undoubtedly face a transition when Kuhlman eventually does leave, and the community will need to find a way to replace her institutional knowledge and unwavering commitment.

She finds joy in watching students grow and thrive, and appreciates the visits from former students who stop by to say hello. These spontaneous encounters underscore her deep integration into the fabric of the community and the affection she inspires in those who know her.

Brenda Kuhlman's 52 years of service to Pope John XXIII Central Catholic School is a testament to the power of dedication and community. Her story serves as an inspiration for Valdosta residents and beyond, reminding us of the importance of stability, continuity, and personal connection in education and community life. Residents interested in supporting the school can reach out to Kuhlman's office for information on volunteer opportunities and fundraising initiatives. The school’s continued success depends on the ongoing support of the local community, and Kuhlman’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to contribute to its mission.