Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Maira Delgado Mendez, associate principal at Lincoln High School.

“Ms. Mendez is super kind and her voice is really calming. She helps so many kids in the building. I enjoy going to school every day just because I'll get to see her. Ms. Mendez should be featured because of her kindness and that she shows up every day with a smile on her face and ready to face whatever the day brings.” - Shel, student at Lincoln High School

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

I am an associate principal at Lincoln High School. I get to serve one of the most diverse schools in the community, building relationships with students and their families.

How long have you worked for LPS?

I started working at LPS in 2014 as a Spanish and English learner teacher.

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

I always knew that wherever I landed as an educator, it needed to be in a diverse community where I could use my life experiences and skills. I wanted to be where the student body looked like me.

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

As the proud daughter of immigrants who set aside their own career dreams when moving to the U.S., I have always viewed education as the best way to pay their sacrifices forward. In my current role, I get to serve many students and families who come from backgrounds similar to mine. Being able to help families and students in our native language gives me satisfaction because my family didn't always have that experience.

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

Voice.

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

I graduated from Crete High School.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?

I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and later earned my master’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?

It's really a small, big world. I know a lot of people, but not everyone. 

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

I really enjoyed the Bailey School Kids series.

Share a shoutout to a former associate principal who impacted your life.

Janet Eckerson was my Spanish teacher at Crete High School and later my mentor down the hallway at Lincoln High School, where I began my first teaching job. I really enjoyed her teaching style in our Spanish for Spanish Speakers courses. We weren't just developing our academic Spanish. We were diving deep into our roots and culture. She created opportunities I wouldn't have had otherwise, from connecting our community through journalism to reading novels in my heritage language and exploring Latin American history.

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