North Platte, NE – The North Platte Public Schools Foundation is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the North Platte High School Distinguished Alumni Award. This year’s honorees—Judge Angie K. Schneider, Dr. Melissa (Thompson) Poloncic, and Judge Barbara J. Houser—will be recognized at the Evening of Excellence – Diamonds & Disco, an annual celebration taking place on Friday, July 25, 2025 at Venue 304 in North Platte.
Each of these remarkable North Platte High graduates has exemplified excellence, leadership, and dedication throughout their careers and lives, making a profound impact in their respective fields and communities.
Judge Angie K. Schneider – Class of 1987
Chief Judge of the Twelfth Judicial District Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, Judge Schneider has made a name for herself both statewide and nationally through her advocacy for children and youth. Appointed to the district court bench in 2013 by Governor Susana Martinez and retained by voters in subsequent elections, Schneider has championed juvenile justice reform and spearheaded initiatives such as the Competency Diversion Pilot Program and the REACH Court (Restoring Emerging Adult Connections and Hope). Known for her perseverance and commitment to justice, she is also a four-time recipient of the prestigious Don Quixote Award for the Relentless Pursuit of Justice.
Dr. Melissa (Thompson) Poloncic – Class of 1988
A transformative leader in education, Dr. Poloncic was named the 2024 Nebraska Superintendent of the Year by the Nebraska Association of School Administrators. As Superintendent of Douglas County West Community Schools, she has led the district through significant improvements in curriculum and student achievement. Her dedication extends beyond her district, serving in leadership roles with the Nebraska Council of School Administrators and mentoring future educators through her work at Doane University. From flood response coordination to strategic academic advancement, Dr. Poloncic is building a lasting legacy of leadership and community focus.
Judge Barbara J. Houser – Class of 1972
A trailblazer in the legal world, Judge Houser served over 20 years as Chief United States Bankruptcy Judge in the Northern District of Texas—the first woman to do so. An NPHS alumna who graduated with high distinction from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and earned her law degree from SMU Dedman School of Law, Houser was named one of the 50 most influential women lawyers in America by The National Law Journal. Post-retirement, she continued her service on recall status and played a pivotal role in the Boy Scouts of America Settlement Trust. Her accolades include the Distinguished Alumni Award for Judicial Service and multiple national honors recognizing her judicial excellence and service.
Celebrate With Us
The Evening of Excellence – Diamonds & Disco will take place on Friday, July 25, 2025, and will highlight the achievements of these esteemed alumni, while also supporting the mission of the NPPS Foundation in enhancing educational opportunities for current and future NPPS students.
Tickets will be available here beginning in May.
