Empowering Students at Heartland School

Heartland School is a specialized educational facility focused on supporting students with emotional and behavioral challenges. With a low student-to-staff ratio, each student receives personalized attention to help meet their unique educational needs and ensure their success.

A Vision Turned Reality

Heartland School was founded through the vision of George Spilker, Special Education Director of Papillion-La Vista School District, and Dick Schoonover, Special Education Director of Bellevue Public Schools. Their goal was to create a private school setting that would address the specific needs of emotionally disturbed and behaviorally disordered students within a public school framework.

Our Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Growth

In 1987, the Heartland Foundation was established as the Midlands Level III program, starting with just one classroom and one teacher inside Midlands Hospital in Papillion, Nebraska. The school then relocated to downtown Ralston, Nebraska, in 1990. In 1995, the Heartland Foundation officially became Heartland Foundation dba Heartland School.

By November 2005, Heartland School had outgrown its original location and moved into a new facility at 5731 S. 108th St., Omaha, Nebraska, where it continues to thrive, serving approximately 50 students from school districts across eastern Nebraska.

Leadership and Growth: The Heartland Story Continues

In 2012, Mary Quiroz took the helm as Director and Principal of Heartland School. Under her leadership, the school has seen tremendous growth, expanding its team to include 6 certified staff members, para-professionals, social workers, counselors, as well as an administrative team consisting of the Director/Principal, Assistant Principal, and Administrative Secretary.