Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Jodi Alva, teacher at Scott Middle School.

“Jodi has become a point of contact for students on and off her caseload around the building. She and her therapy dog have been incredibly helpful for all students. Whether a student is feeling ‘stuck’ or just needs a positive interaction, Jodi is there. Jodi has also been a staff member who has driven reading intervention instruction forward. Whether it is embedding new district-approved reading interventions or trialing a new co-taught environment in our Reading Intervention classes, students have truly benefitted from her instruction. Our SE MAP reading scores reflect her work.” - Tim Oehring, building coordinator, Scott Middle School

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.

I have worked as a speech pathologist for the majority of my career at LPS. I am currently a resource teacher specializing in reading at Scott Middle School.

How long have you worked for LPS?

I have worked for LPS since 2012.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?

I enjoy teaming with students and their families to help them grow both academically and socially. Middle school is my favorite - I love to see the growth in students in the three years from the time they enter in sixth grade until they head off to high school.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?

Not only do I have a passion for teaching reading and supporting academic growth, my highest priority is building strong relationships with students. When kids feel truly connected to school, their confidence grows and academic success naturally follows. There’s nothing better than seeing the joy on their faces when they succeed! I also love bringing my two therapy dogs, Milo and Sadie, to school. They work just as hard as I do to support our students!

In one word, what makes you proud to work for LPS?

Connection.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?

I attended Silver Creek Public Schools, a town with a population of 450 - less than half the population of Scott Middle School!

What path did you take after completing your formal education?

I have a bachelor's degree in speech language pathology as well as master's degrees in speech language pathology and educational leadership from University of Nebraska–Lincoln. I also have reading and special education endorsements from Concordia University. My career path was shaped by my family, particularly my two sisters with disabilities. My goal has always been to take their challenges - along with everything that makes them unique - and use those experiences to create a successful, inclusive learning environment for others. Ultimately, I want my students and their families to feel genuinely supported, celebrated, and confident in their success.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?

I love the incredible opportunities Lincoln offers, which was a huge factor in choosing LPS for our own kids. At the same time, Lincoln still has that welcoming, small-town feel where everyone is connected and you truly feel part of a community.

What is your favorite childhood book or a book that has influenced your life positively?

The first book I remember is “The Monster at the End of This Book.” My aunt would read it to me and sounded just like Grover! In elementary, I loved the Little House on the Prairie books. Reading is one of my favorite childhood memories and helped shape me and my career path.

Share a shoutout to a former teacher who impacted your life.

Rick Weatherholt, my junior high math teacher. His talent for teaching and building relationships is a model I strive to use in my own classroom every day. It's such a fun full-circle moment that he is now working at LPS, too!

Do you know an LPS staff member we should feature for Staff Spotlight? Fill out this form to nominate them!