Every week, we shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! This week, meet Wendy Martin, teacher at Lincoln Northeast High School.

“Mrs. Martin helped me figure out what I wanted to do after high school. When I was having a really bad time, being in her chemistry class was like an escape. I just want Mrs. Martin to know she's the most important person to me.” - Dylan, Lincoln Northeast student 

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

I am a high school science teacher. I currently teach ninth grade physical science differentiated and chemistry at Lincoln Northeast High School.

How long have you worked for LPS?

Twenty-six years.

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

I have always loved science and working with kids. Once I helped coach a middle school volleyball team in college, I realized how much I enjoyed working with kids and started working toward my education degree.

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

The opportunity to grow and learn and work with other teachers in other schools to become a better and more knowledgeable teacher.

What makes you proud to work for LPS?

The staff and spirit weeks.

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

I graduated from Lincoln Northeast in 1993, from Mickle Middle School in 1989 and went to Kahoa Elementary School.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?

After graduating with a bachelor's degree in natural science education, I started teaching at Elmwood-Murdock, a grades 7-12 school. After teaching in Murdock for two years, I started at Lincoln Public Schools at Dawes Middle School. I originally taught seventh grade science for a year, and then taught two years of ninth grade physical science and biology. In 2003, ninth grade was moved out of Dawes Middle School and into high school. After discovering I did not have the grit to be a true middle school teacher, I moved with the ninth graders to Lincoln Northeast. Ten years after graduating from college, while pregnant with my third child, I decided to return to school to earn a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Doane University. I have loved being at Northeast and am a true Rocket at heart.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?

Lincoln is still a small town in a very large city. No matter where you go, you will find someone that you recognize or know. It makes you feel that you aren't alone and that there are options out there no matter what you like or want to do.

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

Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein were very prevalent in my younger years, as something that was silly, yet fun, and still had a great message. 

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

Bob Curtright was my favorite teacher in school. He had all these fun sayings and always seemed to be excited to be at school and was entertained by everything and everyone. He made me realize that your day was what you make of it. You can ruin your day by focusing on the bad, or you can look at the positives and move on with your day.

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