Swaney Elementary in Derby, Kansas, in the United States was named for John W. Swaney. He was born in Senacaville, Ohio and came to Kansas when he was 10 years old. He attended Carlton School District No. 4.

He taught for a number of years in Derby, became principal and stayed 17 years. He then served 2 years as County Superintendent of Public Instruction. He spent 45 years in his career in education in and around Derby.

Swaney Grade School, named for Mr. Swaney, was opened in 1956.