Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Alyssa Gardner, teacher at Lincoln Northwest High School.

“Ms. Gardner is the MOST caring teacher. She devotes her time to helping kids pursue their dreams of going to college. Ms. Gardner helped me when I was struggling in every one of my classes and pushed me to be the best student I can be. She made me believe I can go to college, and that I deserve to have a good job in the future.” - Savannah, student at Lincoln Northwest High School

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

I am the AVID teacher at Lincoln Northwest High School for grades 9-12. I am an advocate, a mentor, and an instructional leader who helps students develop the academic, organizational, and college- and career-readiness skills necessary for success in high school and beyond. I encourage students to take ownership of their learning, set meaningful goals, and develop the habits needed to become independent and successful learners. I also serve as the Student Council sponsor at my school where I help students develop leadership skills while providing the structure, guidance and support necessary for them to plan and carry out activities, events, service projects and fundraisers.

How long have you worked for LPS?

This is my fourth year teaching in LPS. I started out as a teaching assistant at Lincoln Northeast with the JROTC program and then transitioned into teaching study skills there the next year. For the last three years I have been at Lincoln Northwest building the AVID program to encompass all four grade levels.

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

I was a student in LPS starting my seventh grade year, and by the time I was a senior, I was at The Career Academy for their opening year attending the secondary education pathway. LPS provided me so much in terms of resources, opportunities and community. When it was time for me to start planting my roots, I couldn't think of a better district to give back to.

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

The number of opportunities I have been offered over my time in LPS is honestly my favorite part. I have been given the chance to grow personally and professionally through taking on new committees, sponsoring different activities, and creating a curriculum that makes an impact.

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

Community.

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

Prior to transferring into LPS, I lived in Palmyra and went to school in Bennet. Once in LPS, I attended Pound Middle School and Southeast High School (with TCA my senior year).

What path did you take after completing your formal education?

After high school, I attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where I got my bachelor’s in secondary education with a focus in social sciences and a minor in history. Right before I graduated, my husband and I welcomed our first baby. This changed my career path from immediately applying for full-time teaching positions to working as a long- and short-term substitute teacher in the Norris School District. After our second baby was born, I decided it was time to move on to a new school district, and that's when I found myself in Lincoln.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?

I love how diverse LPS and the Lincoln community are. I learn so much from my students and coworkers who have such different backgrounds from my own. It is fun to watch how everyone's experiences come together to create a greater, more diverse and inclusive whole.

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

One book that I remember reading as a kid was "Touching Spirit Bear.” It touched on so many different topics, but it ultimately circled back to using community support and reflection rather than simple punishment to encourage accountability.

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

I can't choose just one teacher. I had many great teachers throughout my time in LPS, but the teachers who I still talk about are my former English teachers at Southeast High School. Sara Danielson my freshman year, made learning Shakespeare so much fun with improv pool noodle battle reenactments. Julie Krueger, my sophomore year, let us have our shenanigans, but she still held us to such high expectations. Johnna Graff, my junior year, gave me the tools to survive every college paper I ever wrote. Each was different in their approach, but each made me a better learner, individual, and eventual teacher.

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